Small animals will attempt to hide their pain and discomfort. This makes it difficult to spot when they are not feeling themselves. Dogs and cats can become uncomfortable when they have had lots of exercise, a fall or trauma as a result of playing, walking or playing fetch or exploring. Dogs that are used for sport have high physical demands going through their bodies which can increase the likely hood of an injury. Small animals may show behaviour changes if they are in pain, some of these can include decreased activity levels, lack of enthusiasm to go out on walks and become reluctant to leave the house. They may be stiff when rising, struggle to climb the stairs and jump into the car, onto the window sill or onto bed. Some of the common things that veterinary physiotherapy can be used for are neurological conditions, post-surgery or injury including road traffic accidents. To manage hip and elbow dysplasia, joint problems and soft tissue injuries such as osteoarthritis. It can also be used for weight loss and increasing both cardiovascular and musculoskeletal fitness. 

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Small animals can become bored if they are having rest post-surgery or after an injury, therefore they can become playful and mischievous. We can suggest easy activities that will relieve your animals boredom whilst in rehabilitation.