In this episode of the Family Pet Podcast, we talk to Dr. David Levine and Ashley Wheeler LVMT to discuss rehabilitation for pets. They explain the purpose of rehab, which includes reinforcing post-operative surgeries and maximizing function in cases of arthritis or neurological conditions. The guests also highlight the importance of assessment and individualized treatment plans. They discuss various rehab techniques such as underwater treadmills and balance tools. Additionally, they provide tips for preventing the need for rehab, including maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating regular exercise. The episode concludes with fun facts about otters and the evolution of ear sizes in animals.
Takeaways
Rehabilitation for pets aims to reinforce post-operative surgeries and maximize function in cases of arthritis or neurological conditions.
Assessment is crucial in determining the progress of rehab and making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Various techniques, such as underwater treadmills and balance tools, are used in pet rehabilitation.
Preventing the need for rehab can be achieved by maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating regular exercise.
Fun facts: Otters hold hands when they sleep, and the size of an animal’s ears can vary based on its habitat.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Experiences
02:19 Rehabilitation for Pets
05:23 The Purpose of Rehab
07:04 Comparison to Human Occupational Therapy
08:20 Rehabilitation Techniques
10:00 Prescribing Rehab Exercises
13:00 Duration of Treatment
14:12 Homework for Pet Parents
15:24 Assessing Improvement
17:16 Canine vs. Feline Rehabilitation
20:20 Exercise for Cats
23:02 Advancements in Animal Physical Therapy
25:58 Preventing the Need for Rehab
28:12 The Importance of Activity
29:21 Fun Facts
31:51 Closing Remarks
