How We Operate

Do I need a referral?

As a courtesy to your family veterinarian and to ensure continuity of care, we require a referral (for rehabilitation or Integrative medicine services) or release (for recreational swimming) from your regular veterinarian or surgeon.  You or your vet may download a form here or we can mail or fax you a copy. This form and all relevant records should be FAXed to us prior to your first appointment.  If you are unable to obtain a referral, please call us for advice.

How do I schedule a visit?

Call us at 610-865-4348   to schedule an evaluation appointment for your pet and to obtain the referral form for your vet. If your dog is free of injury or any health issue and you wish only to have him swim for fun, you do not need an evaluation, but you will need a release from your vet and an appointment.

What happens during an evaluation?

During the initial evaluation the Animal Therapy veterinarian or physical therapist will obtain a detailed history of your pet.  This will cover recent problems or surgeries, past medical issues, diet, medications, your pet’s home environment and exercise patterns, and your goals in bringing your pet for treatment. We will review any records and/or x-rays provided, and analyze gait and take measurements of joints and muscles if appropriate.  We then outline a proposed treatment plan optimized for your pet. If time and your pet’s condition permit, initial treatment will be started. For rehabilitation patients, a home exercise program for the first week will be explained and demonstrated to you. Any recommended supplements or diet modifications will be discussed.

What do I need to bring?

Please ask your veterinarian to fax your pet’s records in advance of your appointment. If there are any x-rays or MRI studies related to your pet’s condition, please bring a copy with you. Bring your pet on a collar and short (6 foot or less) lead suitable for walking. If your pet has food allergies or dietary restrictions, it is helpful if you bring some acceptable treats along. Please bring a list of all your pet’s current medications (or the bottles) and description of his diet. A towel for blanket for the car ride home is recommended if your dog is not crated in the car.  In winter, a coat or sweater for your dog to wear home is highly advisable.

Can I stay with my dog during treatment?

Absolutely! Owner participation is an integral part of most therapy sessions and you are encouraged to attend and assist. This helps your dog feel more relaxed and motivated, and is important for you to learn how to perform your home exercise program.  In isolated cases however dogs may perform better if their owner is not present and we may ask you to wait in the lobby. Please understand that our goal is always to provide the best possible treatment experience for your pet.

Can I drop my dog off for therapy treatments?

We do offer ‘day stays’ if you need to drop your dog off and pick her up later in the day after her therapy or swim session.  If you will be out of town, are unable to care for an immobilized pet during recovery, or your pet needs intensive daily therapy, we also offer “Rehab Boarding” in conjunction with Wright Veterinary Medical Center, during which your pet can receive all aspects of both his home and professional therapy program.

Is my dog too old for Rehab?

No dog should be denied the possible benefits of rehab without first having a professional evaluation. Many of our most “satisfied customers” are senior dogs who, while not cured of old age, do gain a new lease on life through our age-appropriate gentle exercise and stretching programs.

What if my dog doesn’t like the water?

While we have Labradors and other “water dogs” who are crazy about the pool, we also see many dogs who have little to no experience with water or swimming and almost all become comfortable enough with either the pool or treadmill  to exercise.  A gentle introduction and food treats go a long way to helping dogs into the water.

Do you see cats?

We frequently see cats for acupuncture. We have also seen cats for rehab, although they do pose unique challenges!

How long does an appointment last?

Initial evaluation appointments are conducted by one of our veterinarians or our physical therapist and last approximately one hour. Follow up rehab appointments are usually also an hour while acupuncture follow up runs 30 to 40 minutes. Swim-only sessions for conditioning are 25 minutes.

Won’t the pool chemicals hurt my dog’s coat?

We use bromine and a UV filter rather than chlorine; careful maintenance helps us keep chemical levels low and most dogs do not experience a problem. Bromine itself does not cause skin problems; it actually will reduce dandruff and increase circulation to the skin. Most “hot spots” are caused by moisture trapped in thick coats. Make sure your dog dries completely including under the collar. If your dog is especially sensitive or develops any problems, we can rinse her off with fresh water following each aquatic session. You may also want to use a spray conditioner or medicated shampoo on her.