5 Steps to prepare your pet for physiotherapy
Updated: Jan 31, 2022
Perhaps what’s holding you back from getting your pet physiotherapy is not knowing how they will react, will they enjoy it, will they be scared?
So let’s take a look at 5 steps you can take to get your pet ready for physiotherapy, even if you think they don’t need it now (they do) it will help them be prepared should they ever have an accident and need rehabilitation.
5 steps you can take to prepare your pet for physiotherapy:
Vet and Owner Consent- This is always the first step to booking a physio appointment for your pet and makes sure that it would be a good fit for you and them physically, logistically and financially.
One form will be sent to you and the other to your vet. Your vet will provide any medical history and give consent for the physio to see your pet (this is required under the vet surgeons and animal welfare acts). Your owner form will outline all your details and the T&C’s for you to review.
If you’re happy with all this then you can book an appointment, then it’s time to think about our pets and how to prepare them emotionally and in their training.
Happy to be handled. Ensuring your pet is happy to be handled and touched everywhere is going to be key to them enjoying their session as your physio will need to check all their muscle and joints. If you’re having trouble with this speak with a trainer who understands the physio/vet exam process they will be the best person to help you get your pet happy with being handled for physio treatment and examination.
Pain controlled. If your pet has had surgery or an accident they may be in pain still. Now physio can help reduce this pain but if your pet is in so much pain that they are reluctant to be touched or interact with the physio this will make their session less effective so ensuring that their pain is controlled means that they have a much better session. This is something you can speak to your vet about if you are concerned.
Quiet comfy environment. Getting your pet used to settling in a quiet and comfortable environment will allow them to feel safe and secure throughout their physio session. Most pets fall fast asleep!
Treats or distractions. If your pet tends to be a bit of a fidget or struggles to keep still treats or distractions like puzzle feeders or their favourite owner or toy etc. can be just what’s needed. They also help your pet associate their favourite things with a physio session making them love it even more.
Any more questions or concerns send them straight over to zoe@fitpetphysio.com with the subject line ‘Questions’ or if you’re now ready to book use the subject line ‘Book’.