frequently asked questions

1. How do I make a rehab appointment for my dog?

Call Monika Alston at rehab4dogs on 0407 799 751 or email us at info@rehab4dogs.com.au.

2. What is involved in a session?

When looking at an injury, it’s not just the knee for example but the whole body which needs to be assessed – pain can be referred from elsewhere. The injury needs to be professionally assessed and a rehab program tailored accordingly.

The Initial Visit consists of…

• taking history of your dog and current issue
• comprehensive assessment of movement
• comprehensive hands on assessment
• commencement of Canine Myofunctional Therapy / Bowen Therapy on areas required
• teaching you, the Owner, how to apply basic massage techniques and how to perform stretches where appropriate

The session ends with an Action Plan giving specific instructions to Owners on how to assist their dog’s ongoing care.

The second and subsequent visits involve…

• a progress assessment
• continuation of Canine Myofunctional Therapy in areas required
• depending on you dog’s progress specifically tailored exercises may be introduced utilising rehab equipment

The session ends with a review of the previous Action Plan and any modifications if required. Further visits, if required, will be discussed at this point.

3. How long do the sessions last and how many will we need?

Each dog is unique and therefore needs to be assessed accordingly. As a general guide you would require 2 - 4 sessions depending on the dogs condition and progress.

• Initial visits last between 45mins - 1hour
• Revisits last approximately 30-45mins.

4. What do I need to bring to a session?

You and your dog will need to bring your Veterinary Referral and signed Disclosure document.

5. What types of after surgery/injuries can rehab4dogs help with?

Rehabilitation therapy can assist with but are not limited to the following surgeries/injuries:

• Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) - knee surgery
• Bone Fracture surgery (eg. due to car crash)
• Luxating Patella - dislocating kneecap
• Femoral Head Osteotomy - femur head removal
• Elbow surgery
• Musculoskeletal injuries - any type of muscle, joint or tissue strain/sprain 

6. What about my Vet, will you work with him/her on this? 

Absolutely. rehab4dogs works in partnership with Vets on continuing care for your dog. A summary will be sent to your Vet at the end of each session on your dog’s progress. 

7. What does this rehab do for my dog?

• provides relief for built up aches and pains
• increases range of movement 
• maintains and increases flexibility
• breaks down adhesions
• improves muscle tone
• improves nutrient supply, circulation and elimination of toxic waste build up in muscles
• assists in elimination of waste around the joints
• hydrates skin and hair and 
• promotes wellness 

8. What can I do to help with my dog’s rehab?

rehab4dogs aims to teach you strategies for self managing your dog’s ongoing disabilities and maximising their potential.

rehab4dogs will provide you with some home exercises you can practice with your pet on an ongoing basis. These can be massage, passive range of movement related or active exercises as your dog learns to rebuild lost muscle mass.

A specifically tailored plan for your dog’s particular needs, as he heads toward recovery, will be discussed with you and revised at each session. Your job will be to ensure supporting his/her continued care by following the program set out for him.

9. Can you help older dogs with arthritis?

Yes. CMT and rehab can assist in strengthening weakened muscle tissue, increase range of motion, relieve pain for the dog and increase blood flow, oxygen and nutrients to affected areas.

10. Will my dog recover to normal again after rehab?

This will depend on a whole range of factors. However, the goal is for your dog to become as independent as possible despite his/her disabilities and to restore your dog to ‘normal’ function and its former athletic style.