Canine rehab/physical therapy is a growing field. This year, Americans are projected to spend almost $19 billion on veterinary care for their pets, including PT. This is up from about $15 billion five years ago, according to the American Pet Products Association.

Rehab is now routinely recommended for dogs after surgeries and injuries, and also is increasingly being used as an alternative to surgery for elderly dogs.

According to a recent USA Today article, veterinary colleges are now placing more emphasis on rehab training and offering rehab services in their curriculums, and stand-alone rehab facilities have started to open around the country. The expectations of clients are to have rehabilitation on their pets similar to what they might have for their own injury or surgery.

To date, American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation has certified 147 rehabbers in the U.S. and 235 worldwide.

Some common physical therapy treatments include:

1. Underwater treadmill: a special treadmill enclosed in a watertight container. Different levels of water can be added. The higher the water level, the less of the pet’s body weight is carried by them. Rehabbers typically start out easy with a high water level, then gradually increase the difficulty by decreasing the water level and increasing the speed and duration.

2.  Obstacle course: used to increase or relearn balance and paw placement. This can include the use of hills, steps, ramps, bars, balance balls, etc.

3.  Therapeutic ultrasound:uses ultrasonic waves to stimulate muscle activity. These waves provide heat to muscles, tendons and ligaments to help them heal.

4.Cold therapy laser: works at the cellular level. Can decrease inflammation and increase circulation, which can help decrease pain and increase healing.

So, don’t be surprised if your vet recommends physical therapy for your pet. It may just work.