Vaccinations
Ark Animal Hospital is excited to announce Melody Williams, DVM is now a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) and is available to assist in your pet's health care.
Can my pet benefit from Physical Rehabilitation?
Some of the most common indications for rehab are listed below. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about whether or not your pet can benefit from rehab please call our office at 541-929-5061.
- Lameness or gait abnormalities
- Post-operative surgery recovery
- Arthritis
- Hip dysplasia
- Neck or back pain
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Tendonitis, sprains or strains
What will happen during the exam?
Since each case is different the initial exam will be extensive and include a thorough evaluation of your pets general health, joint flexion and extension, gait analysis, and musculoskeletal exam (specifically muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints). Paired with a detailed history this information will lead to a diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. The success of your pets rehabilitation relies on your dedication; this is a huge commitment of time and resources. Treatments may include manual therapy, massage, and range of motion exercises; specialized modalities like electrical stimulation; as well as specific medications and supplements to alleviate pain and optimize healing and mobility. Your participation during treatment is always welcome.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulations (E-Stim):Tiny electrical pulses produce gentle muscle contractions. This combats the muscle atrophy and weakness that is so common in physical rehabilitation patients. After learning how to safely administer this treatment you may be able to rent the unit and provide this therapy at home.
Manual therapy: Joint mobilizations, Passive Range of Motion (PROM), massage and acupressure can all be a part of the plan and will help improve improve flexibility, alleviate pain and swelling.
Therapeutic Exercises: These are exercises prescribed to achieve specific goals such as strengthening, improving balance or flexibility. You will receive a home exercise plan but some exercises will need to be done with one of our assistants here at the hospital.
Can I afford rehab?
There are many things that owners can do at home which makes rehab very affordable. We will provide written treatment plans that include the costs for all recommended in-clinic treatments, supplements, and medications. Please contact our office for your initial visit.