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The Power of Routine: Establishing Consistent Physiotherapy Practices for Pets

By Tanri de Lange (BSc.VetPhysio)
SAVC Registered Veterinary Physiotherapist
Founder of The Vet Physio Pod Podcast

As a veterinary physiotherapist, I often see how consistent, tailored physiotherapy can transform a pet’s quality of life. Whether your pet is recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions like arthritis, or struggling with mobility issues, one thing is clear: the key to success is routine. Just as with human rehabilitation, pets benefit enormously from consistent care, exercise, and attention. Establishing a daily physiotherapy routine at home can significantly enhance your pet’s recovery, reduce pain, and improve their mobility.
In this article, I’ll share insights into the power of a regular physiotherapy regimen, and offer practical advice on how to integrate it seamlessly into your pet’s life.

The Importance of Consistency in Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy for pets isn’t a quick fix or a one-time treatment — it’s a process that requires ongoing effort and consistency. Whether your pet is recovering from a traumatic injury or dealing with a longterm condition like arthritis, the benefits of physiotherapy are cumulative. It’s the daily, gentle exercises, stretches, and treatments that lead to lasting results.
As a veterinary physiotherapist, I’ve seen firsthand how important routine is to the rehabilitation process. It’s not just about a single clinic visit — physiotherapy needs to be integrated into your pet’s daily life to truly make a difference. “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.”— Aristotle

Creating a Routine: Small Steps for Big
Improvements

The goal of any physiotherapy program is to enhance movement, relieve pain, and restore function. But these goals can only be achieved with consistency. Creating a routine that suits your pet’s individual needs can seem like a challenge, but with the right approach, it’s a manageable and rewarding process.

Here are some steps to help you develop an effective home physiotherapy routine for your pet:

1. Set a Consistent Schedule

Pets thrive on routine. A regular physiotherapy schedule — whether it’s morning, mid-day, or evening — helps your pet know what to expect. This routine doesn’t need to take hours of your time. In fact, shorter, focused sessions are often more effective. Aim for 10-15 minutes of physiotherapy exercises once or twice a day, depending on your pet’s condition.

Pro Tip: Use your pet's meal times or walks as natural anchors for physiotherapy sessions—this will help keep you consistent and serve as a reminder for your exercises.

2. Use Positive Reinforcementing

Unfortunately, this will only work if your dog is a water baby. I also do not recommend trying this with your cat. Working out in water is such a great exercise for older dogs, dogs with joint issues or even overweight pets.

While you swim laps, your dog can swim after some water toys that float. In this summer heat, exercising while simultaneously cooling done is definitely a winner.

3. Track Progress

It’s crucial to track your pet’s progress so you can adjust the routine as necessary. Keeping a log of your pet’s activities and noting their physical responses — whether they seem less stiff, are walking better, or have increased energy — will help you see the results over time. If your pet experiences a setback or seems fatigued after certain exercises, it may be time to consult with your physiotherapist to modify the plan.

Pro-tip: stick a schedule on the fridge that can be filled in, ticked off and the session rated according to how the exercises went. An alternative to this is to keep a notebook.

4. Seek Professional Guidance

While home exercises are key to recovery, professional guidance is essential in ensuring your pet’s rehabilitation program is safe and effective. As a veterinary physiotherapist, I work with owners to design tailored treatment plans for each pet’s specific condition or goals. Professional physiotherapy may include therapeutic modalities such as laser therapy, electrical stimulation, or manual therapy techniques that cannot be replicated at home but can complement the exercises you do at home. Together, the home program and regular sessions with the physiotherapist, create the perfect routine and balance.

Benefits of a Regular Physiotherapy Routine

The impact of a consistent physiotherapy routine extends far beyond just physical recovery. Here are some of the most important benefits you can expect:

  • Pain Management
  • Improved Mobility
  • Faster Recovery
  • Better Mental Well-Being

Together, these all lead to an improved quality of life.

The Road Ahead: Investing in Long-Term Health

The benefits of physiotherapy are not limited to short-term recovery — they contribute to long-term health and wellbeing. By committing to a routine of physiotherapy exercises, you are investing in your pet’s future, ensuring that they have the strength, mobility, and quality of life to enjoy their golden years.

Remember, physiotherapy is a journey, not a quick fix. The more consistent and patient you are with your pet’s routine, the more profound the improvements will be. With the right approach, your pet can thrive to the best of their abilities.

If you’re unsure where to start, don’t hesitate to reach out to a registered veterinary physiotherapist for guidance. We’re here to help you and your pet on the road to recovery and wellness—one step at a time.

www.kinetixvetphysio.co.za
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