Companion Animals

Dog Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Welfare

Canine physiotherapy addresses musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction through manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and electrophysical modalities, improving quality of life for many affected dogs.

Key Facts

Certified canine physiotherapists treat conditions including arthritis, disc disease, and post-surgical recovery
Manual therapy including massage and joint mobilisation reduces pain and improves function
Therapeutic exercise programmes rebuild muscle mass lost through disuse and injury
Physiotherapy after orthopaedic surgery significantly improves long-term outcomes
Hydrotherapy combined with physiotherapy provides comprehensive musculoskeletal rehabilitation

Welfare Considerations

Musculoskeletal pain causes chronic suffering in many dogs. Physiotherapy extends comfortable function and reduces pain medication requirements when integrated with veterinary care.

What You Can Do

Ask your vet for physiotherapy referral for dogs with musculoskeletal conditions
Seek a physiotherapist registered with ACPAT or equivalent professional body
Follow prescribed home exercise programmes consistently between sessions
Combine physiotherapy with appropriate pain medication for best outcomes