Rehabilitation for Geriatric Dogs and Cats
As our beloved pets age, their needs evolve, just like ours. For geriatric pets, maintaining mobility and managing pain becomes increasingly important. This is where our skilled rehabilitation team comes in, offering a range of rehabilitation therapies tailored to senior pets.
Geriatric pets, often classified as those aged seven or older, experience age-related conditions such as arthritis, muscle atrophy, and reduced mobility. Symptoms we often hear from pet parents include stiffness, slowing down, and loss of interest in a pet’s previously enjoyed activities.
Our team of veterinarians with advanced training in rehabilitation, acupuncture and pain management, combine treatments like medication, supplements, and assistive devices alongside veterinary rehabilitation services to offer a more comprehensive solution to improve their quality of life. Today we are highlighting how acupuncture and hydrotherapy support the mobility and well-being of our senior dog and cat patients:
Medical Acupuncture:
Acupuncture is not just for humans; it can benefit our furry friends, too, both canine and feline. IPC’s skilled veterinarians with advanced training and certification offer medical acupuncture as part of our rehabilitation services.
1. Pain Management: Acupuncture can effectively alleviate pain by stimulating the release of endorphins and increasing blood circulation. For geriatric pets with arthritis or other painful conditions, this natural therapy provides much-needed relief.
2. Enhanced Mobility: Improved blood flow and muscle relaxation from acupuncture can enhance a pet's mobility, making it easier for them to move around comfortably.
3. Stress Reduction: Acupuncture sessions can also reduce stress and anxiety in geriatric pets, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
Hydrotherapy:
Hydrotherapy for dogs involves controlled exercise in water and is a game-changer for many geriatric pets. Our extensively trained team offers hydrotherapy sessions tailored to each pet's specific needs.
1. Low-Impact Exercise: Water therapy is gentle on dogs’ aging joints and muscles, making it ideal for pets with arthritis or mobility issues. The buoyancy of the warm water reduces the impact on their bodies while allowing them to engage in exercise.
2. Muscle Strengthening: Swimming and water treadmill sessions can help geriatric pets build and maintain muscle strength, preventing muscle atrophy.
3. Weight Management: Weight control is crucial for senior pets, as excess weight can exacerbate age-related conditions. Hydrotherapy aids in weight management by providing an effective workout without strain.
At IPC, we are dedicated to supporting the well-being of geriatric pets through our offering of comprehensive rehabilitation services. Medical acupuncture and hydrotherapy are just two examples of the innovative approaches used to enhance the golden years of our furry companions.
If you have a senior pet in need of care, consider exploring the benefits of veterinary rehab. With a focus on improving mobility, managing pain, and promoting overall wellness, we love helping older pets enjoy their later years to the fullest.