Therapeutic Exercise

Exercises are designed specifically for each patient. Important factors to be considered include the type of tissues involved, surgical procedure, age and species of the pet, stage of tissue repair and the functional ability of the pet.  Some general types of exercises we include are:

• Passive range of motion (PROM) improves cartilage nutrient availability, cartilage production and increases joint range
• Stretching allows functional movement by improving muscle and tendon flexibility
• Proprioceptive exercises help the animal to gather information about their feet placement
• Balance exercises build core strength to support mobility
• Strengthening exercises are used to strengthen specific muscle groups
• Endurance training improves total body fitness.

Various pieces of equipment such as Fitpaws peanuts, Fitpaws balance dog bone, yoga blocks and mats may be used at different stages of the therapeutic exercise programme.  If needed, many are available to our clients for purchase or hire.

Many of the exercises are designed to be continued at home to encourage you to be actively involved in your pet’s rehabilitation and help him/ her to recover faster.