Post-op rehabilitation

Post-operative rehabilitation is a structured recovery programme that helps dogs and cats regain mobility safely and effectively following surgery. It is most commonly used after orthopaedic procedures such as cruciate ligament repair, joint replacement or fracture management. A certified rehabilitation therapist assesses the animal's condition and designs an individual treatment plan that may include hydrotherapy, low-level laser therapy, therapeutic exercises, massage and neuromuscular electrical stimulation. The aim is to reduce pain and swelling, rebuild muscle strength and restore a normal gait. Owners are often taught home exercises to complement in-clinic sessions. Programme length ranges from a few weeks to several months depending on the procedure performed and the individual animal's progress.