Canine Hydrotherapy

We have two brand new underwater treadmills (AKA Water Therapy or Aqua Therapy) that offer the latest in technology.  Underwater treadmills combine the benefits of buoyancy which minimizes pressure through the joints while providing resistance which strengthens all of your dog’s muscles.  Jets in the treadmill can provide resistance for a more challenging workout, or a relaxing whirlpool-type massage. Don’t worry if your dog doesn’t love water, we will go in the tank with your dog and you will be right there cheering them on. Over the years we have worked with a large number of dogs that weren’t “water” dogs but did extremely well in the underwater treadmill.

Manual Therapy

We are experts in soft tissue manual therapy. Petra has 12 years of hands-on experience working with dogs and has passed all of her knowledge to Laurie. We believe in treating the whole dog, and this means assessing every muscle and ensuring your dog is pain free dysfunction. With soft tissue injuries we can isolate the root of the problem.

• Myofascial Release

• Therapeutic Massage

• Joint Mobilization

• Trigger Point Release

Cold Laser

Cold laser treatment uses deep-penetrating light to promote a chain of chemical reactions known as photobiostimulation. The laser uses light energy to cause a physiological change at the cellular level. These changes include replenishing adenosine triphosphate (ATP, the molecule that carries energy in the cells of every living being), activating cells and tissues at the level of the mitochondria, the structure that produces energy for the cell. This stimulates injured cells to heal at an accelerated pace, reduces inflammation and decreases pain.

Physical rehabilitation during recovery is important to stimulate both the motor and sensory nervous system to regain function.  In some cases, our goal is to regain as much function as possible. In other cases, the goal is to slow down the degenerative process and maintain your dog’s ability to function independently for as long as possible. Therapy for patients that are not walking includes techniques to stimulate the muscles, provide sensory input to affected limbs, strengthen the core, and manage pain.  We believe in owner education and assistance with management of the injured dog.  We can provide an array of activities owners can do themselves to ensure your pet is getting therapy even when they are home!

Therapeutic Ultrasound

Pulsed ultrasound is the treatment of choice for tendonitis. Ultrasound therapy sends high-energy sound waves to injured tissues.  The ultrasound waves are generated by the vibration of crystals within the head of the probe. The ultrasound waves pass through the skin and cause a vibration of the local soft tissues.  Ultrasound helps tendon and ligament injuries heal more rapidly and promotes collagen fiber formation to maximize the long-term strength of the tendon.

Therapeutic Exercise

Core strengthening, balance training, proprioception (knowing where the body is in space) are an important part of a well-rounded dog rehabilitation program.

Home Exercise Program

You are in integral part of your dog’s rehabilitation process. We consider a home exercise program an important part of excellent canine rehabilitation care. We teach all of our clients easy exercises they can do at home with their dog. This ensures your furry friend is getting therapy all week long.

Health and Wellness & Rest & Rehab at Petra’s Dog Resource Center

Both of these programs are part of the Specialized Boarding Program of Petra’s Dog Resource Center. Click Here to find out more.