Rehabilitation for Dogs and Cats

Improve your pet’s mobility and comfort with expert rehab therapy for dogs and cats in DeLand. Book a consultation today at Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand.

Pet Rehabilitation in DeLand, FL

Helping your pet stay active, comfortable, and happy is what rehabilitation is all about. Whether your dog is recovering from surgery or your senior cat is showing signs of arthritis, rehabilitation therapy can make a meaningful difference in mobility, strength, and overall comfort.

Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand offers customized rehabilitation services for both dogs and cats. These therapy plans are thoughtfully developed based on your pet’s condition, activity level, and specific needs—whether they’re healing from an injury, managing a chronic illness, or simply trying to move more easily.

Pet Rehabilitation in DeLand, FL

Why Pet Rehabilitation Matters

Rehabilitation gives pets the opportunity to heal, move better, and feel more comfortable—especially after surgery, injury, or with chronic conditions. Much like physical therapy for humans, pet rehabilitation uses structured techniques to restore function, reduce pain, and improve mobility.

Why Pet Rehabilitation Matters

Dogs and cats benefit from rehab for a variety of reasons, including:

Recovery after orthopedic or spinal surgery

Chronic arthritis or joint disease

Neurological conditions and nerve injuries

Ligament or tendon strains and tears

Weight management and conditioning

Age-related mobility changes

Some pets need rehab after surgery, while others benefit from improved balance or arthritis relief. At Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand, each pet receives a customized therapy plan using techniques like laser therapy, acupuncture, underwater treadmill, and at-home exercises. Rehab supports both physical recovery and emotional well-being, helping pets feel better, move easier, and enjoy life more fully.

Conditions We Treat

Rehabilitation supports pets recovering from a variety of medical conditions, ranging from post-surgical care to chronic pain and mobility issues. At Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand, we work closely with referring veterinarians and pet families to provide targeted, results-driven therapy plans that help pets recover, regain strength, and improve function.

Conditions We Treat
Some of the most common conditions we manage include:

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

A painful spinal condition that can cause weakness or paralysis. Rehab helps restore nerve function, improve movement, and support post-surgical healing.

Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE)

A sudden spinal cord injury that affects movement, often in large-breed dogs. Rehab aids in regaining coordination and strength.

Acute Non-Compressive Nucleus Pulposus Extrusion (ANNPE)

Typically caused by sudden trauma to the spine. Therapy helps promote safe recovery and reduce long-term complications.

Hip Dysplasia

A genetic condition that leads to joint instability and pain. Targeted strengthening and mobility work can improve comfort and joint function without surgery.

Arthritis & Degenerative Joint Disease

Common in senior pets, these chronic conditions cause stiffness and discomfort. Rehab slows progression and helps maintain a pet’s independence.

Muscle, Tendon & Ligament Injuries

Whether from trauma or overuse, soft tissue injuries benefit from structured rehab that supports tissue repair and reduces the risk of re-injury.

Obesity & Mobility Challenges

Excess weight impacts a pet’s ability to move and may contribute to joint pain. Rehab focuses on safe, low-impact exercise to improve movement and fitness.

Neurological Conditions & Nerve Damage

Pets with nerve-related mobility issues often need help rebuilding strength, coordination, and balance. Rehab offers guided support for safer movement and improved quality of life.

Spinal Injuries & Surgeries

Pets recovering from spinal surgery require careful, progressive rehab to restore mobility. Techniques like laser therapy, electrical stimulation, and treadmill work are often used.

Orthopedic & Soft Tissue Surgical Recovery

Post-operative rehab is essential for reducing pain, restoring muscle tone, and helping pets return to normal activity faster and more safely.

Each rehabilitation program is customized to fit the pet’s condition, physical ability, and comfort level. With consistent therapy and compassionate care, pets often make remarkable progress—regaining their strength, mobility, and confidence to return to the activities they enjoy.

Our Therapies & Modalities Offered

Rehabilitation therapy at Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand blends advanced equipment, hands-on care, and proven techniques to help pets recover from injury, manage chronic pain, and regain mobility. Each treatment plan is personalized, often combining multiple modalities based on your pet’s specific condition, needs, and comfort level.

Here are the core therapies available:

Acupuncture

Uses fine needles to relieve pain, improve circulation, and support healing—especially for arthritis and nerve issues.

Aquatic Therapy (Underwater Treadmill)

Low-impact water exercise to build strength and mobility. Great for recovery, arthritis, and weight loss. Only at our Ormond Beach location.

Cryotherapy

Cold therapy reduces swelling, pain, and tissue damage right after injury or surgery.

Heat Therapy

Warm compresses boost circulation, ease stiffness, and relax tight muscles.

Laser Therapy

Stimulates cell repair, reduces inflammation, and speeds healing for wounds, pain, and arthritis.

E-Stim/TENS

Gentle electrical stimulation prevents muscle loss, improves circulation, and supports joint mobility.

Phovia Light Therapy

Promotes fast healing of skin and soft tissue—ideal for wounds and skin conditions.

Therapeutic Massage

Relieves muscle tension, improves flexibility, and calms pets with chronic pain or anxiety.

Custom Braces & Devices

Fittings for braces, splints, and mobility carts to help pets move safely and stay active.

At-Home Exercise Plans

Personalized home routines with video support to maintain progress between sessions.

Each therapy is integrated into a comprehensive plan tailored to your pet’s condition and progress. Our approach ensures that every dog and cat receives the most appropriate care to restore movement, reduce discomfort, and return to doing the things they love.

What to Expect from a Rehab Session

Rehabilitation sessions at Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand are designed to be positive, personalized, and effective for both pets and their families. Whether your pet is healing from surgery or managing a chronic condition, every step of the rehab process is guided by their individual needs.

What to Expect from a Rehab Session

The first appointment typically lasts 30–60 minutes and begins with a detailed consultation. Our team reviews your pet’s medical history, assesses their mobility, and discusses any concerns or goals you have—such as reducing pain, improving movement, or enhancing recovery. A physical exam helps us evaluate strength, range of motion, coordination, and neurological function.

From there, we develop a personalized rehab plan, selecting the appropriate therapies to support your pet’s health and comfort.

Ongoing Therapy Sessions

Each follow-up session also lasts 30–60 minutes and may include:

Active and passive therapeutic exercises

Manual therapy or massage

Underwater treadmill (if appropriate)

Heat or cold therapy

Laser therapy, E-stim, or acupuncture

Home exercise guidance for continued progress

We use calm, low-stress handling techniques and positive reinforcement to help pets feel safe and motivated. Progress is closely monitored, and therapy plans are adjusted as needed based on how your pet responds.

What to Expect from a Rehab Session

Support Between Visits

Home care is an important part of the process. We often provide video-supported exercise plans and clear instructions so you can continue therapy at home. This keeps your pet moving forward and gives you a direct role in their recovery.

Discount for Surgical Patients

Pets who have surgery at our hospital receive a 10% discount on their inpatient rehabilitation program. This makes it easier to continue care and ensure your pet recovers with strength, mobility, and confidence.

With consistent therapy and compassionate guidance, many pets experience faster healing, improved comfort, and a better quality of life.

Supporting Dogs and Cats of All Ages

Rehabilitation isn’t just for large dogs or high-performance pets. Small breeds, senior pets, and even cats can benefit from rehab therapy. In fact, many cats tolerate treadmill sessions and manual therapies surprisingly well. These gentle techniques support balance, gait, and body awareness in a way that’s safe and reassuring.

Our team is trained to adapt sessions for even the most sensitive or hesitant pets, creating a calm, confidence-building experience.

Easing Pain, Enhancing Mobility | Schedule a Rehab Consultation Today!

Whether you’re a referring veterinarian or a pet parent looking to support your companion’s recovery, our team is here to help. Our rehabilitation services at Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand are available by appointment and can be coordinated with your primary care vet or surgeon. Call (386) 252-0337 to schedule your pet’s rehabilitation consultation.

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Animal Emergency Hospital DeLand Frequently Ask Questions
  • FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions About Rehabilitation for Dogs and Cats

Both dogs and cats can benefit, especially those recovering from injury or surgery, managing arthritis, or needing help with mobility. Even overweight pets or seniors can see improvement.

It varies based on your pet’s condition. Some pets see improvement in just a few sessions, while others benefit from ongoing therapy over several weeks or months.

In many cases, yes. We aim to make the experience positive and comfortable for both pets and owners. Some pets may even perform better with their owner present.

Not at all. Our techniques are gentle and designed to reduce pain—not cause it. Many pets actually enjoy the process, especially massage, laser, and water therapy.

While referrals are welcome, they’re not required. You can contact us directly to schedule a consultation, and we’re happy to coordinate with your regular veterinarian if needed.