(This service available at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital- see Affiliated Hospital section.)

What is Veterinary Rehabilitation?

Veterinary Rehabilitation uses prescribed exercises and treatments to increase strength and neurologic function. It is also used to decrease pain and swelling your pet may experience. It is a proven method to improve the quality of life for painful or debilitated pets.

Will Veterinary Rehabilitation help MY pet?  

Rehabilitation is recommended for pets that have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, orthopedic conditions such as cruciate ruptures, neurologic condition, overweight pets, and pets that need help with athletic conditioning. We work closely with your regular veterinarian or surgeon to ensure the best overall care for your pet.      

 What is involved in Veterinary Rehabilitation? 

 Passive Range of Motion and Stretching (ROM, pain, swelling)

 Massage (pain, swelling)

 Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (pain)

 Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (strengthening)

 Caveletti’s (strengthening, neurologic functions)

 Balance Board

 Weight Shifting (strengthening, neurologic function)

 Many other therapeutic exercises such as Sit to Stands, Stairs, Ground Treadmill and Weave Poles

How do I get my pet started?

An initial evaluation is performed by our certified rehabilitation practitioner, Wendy Smithey, DVM, CCRP. This evaluation will then be used to tailor a prescribed therapeutic plan.  Once a plan that will serve your pets needs has been formulated, the rehabilitation process will begin.

A little bit about Dr Wendy Smithey…

Wendy Smithey, DVM, CCRP, graduated in 1994 from Virginia Tech with a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Nutrition. She later returned to Virginia Tech and obtained her degree in veterinary medicine in 1999. Prior to joining the team at Great Bridge Veterinary Hospital in 2006, she practiced in both Virginia and North Carolina. She obtained her Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) license from the University of Tennessee in 2008.