No dog should be denied the possible benefits of rehabilitative therapy without first having a professional evaluation. Many of our most satisfied customers are senior dogs who gain a new lease on life through our age-appropriate gentle exercise and stretching programs.

Prior to your evaluation appointment, we will happily contact your primary or referring veterinarian to obtain your pet’s medical records, including any radiographs or advanced imaging studies pertaining to your pet’s condition. Please bring your pet on a collar and leash suitable for walking. We strongly advise against the use of retractable leashes (also known as “flexi-leads”) which may make it difficult to control your pet around the pool or on the land therapy course. 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 and description of his diet. A towel or 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.

During the initial evaluation, Dr. Nixon will obtain a detailed history of your pet and perform a thorough physical examination. This will cover recent problems or surgeries, past medical issues, diet, medications, your pet’s home environment/exercise patterns, and your goals in regards to your pets' treatment. She will review any records and/or x-rays provided, analyze your pet’s gait, and take measurements of joints and muscles if appropriate. Dr. Nixon will then outline a proposed treatment plan optimized for your pet. For rehabilitation patients, a home exercise program will be explained and demonstrated to you. Any recommended supplements or diet modifications will be discussed as well.

Call (610) 865-4348 or request an appointment online. You can also use the top-right menu icons for quick access to WhatsApp, email, directions, and Request An Evaluation. For Fun Swim only, a veterinary referral and swim test appointment are still required.

Absolutely! Owner participation is an integral part of most therapy sessions and you are encouraged to attend. 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, dogs may perform better if their owner is not present and we may ask you to wait in the waiting room. Please understand that our goal is always to provide the best possible treatment experience for your pet.

The initial evaluation appointment is conducted by a doctor and lasts approximately 60-90 minutes. Follow up appointment times vary based on your pet’s treatment plan, but usually do not exceed 50 minutes.

We use bromine and a UV filter rather than chlorine. Careful maintenance helps us keep chemical levels low. Most dogs do not experience a problem as bromine itself does not cause skin irritation, it actually can reduce dandruff and increase circulation to the skin. More commonly, rashes or hot spots are caused by moisture trapped under thick coats.
To avoid this, ensure that your dog dries off completely after a hydrotherapy or pool session by bringing extra towels for the ride home. If your dog is especially sensitive or develops any problems, we can rinse them off with fresh water following each aquatic session.

We frequently treat cats with acupuncture and LASER therapy and have also seen cats for hydrotherapy. We even had a rabbit as a patient who used the underwater treadmill!

While we have dogs of all ages, breeds, and sizes who love the water, we also see many dogs who have little to no experience with water or swimming. Almost all patients become comfortable enough with either the pool or treadmill to exercise.
A gentle introduction and treats go a long way to helping dogs into the water. At the Animal Therapy Center we use many methods to acclimate them safely.

Pool therapy allows dogs to swim freely in the water, while underwater treadmill therapy involves walking at a controlled pace in shallow water. Both use water to support movement, but each offers a different type of exercise depending on your pet’s needs and comfort level.

Fun Swim is for dogs who are healthy and able to safely participate in water activity. To join, we need a referral from your veterinarian confirming good overall health, current vaccines, and that your dog is able to participate. If you do not have that, your dog will need a Fun Swim evaluation with Dr. Nixon first.

No. A veterinary referral is not required to get started. If your veterinarian has suggested therapy, you are welcome to ask them to send a referral for our records.

We help pets with a wide range of mobility and movement concerns. Whether your pet is recovering, aging, or simply not moving as comfortably as before, our team can help determine whether our services may be a good fit.