Welcome to Active Pet Rehabilitation

Carmel has been bringing back the joy of mobility and providing improved comfort to pets for over 25 years, including with Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner Certification (CCRP) since 2010. In 2008, she opened up the first canine aqua treadmill in Perth, bringing with her years of pet rehabilitation training and experience from her time in specialist practices in England.

Carmel and her team have been providing compassionate care to dogs and cats with debilitating conditions ever since. Covering everything from arthritis and joint injuries to spinal injuries, pre-surgery & post-surgery rehab, and many things in between.
We love working with dedicated pet owners to improve their pet’s quality of life and improving their comfort through personalised 1 on 1 sessions.
All of our services aim to reduce discomfort and restore normal movement patterns, so your pet can get back to their healthy, happy selves.

Nobody knows your pet like you do. When you bring your pet to Active Pet Rehabilitation, you become a part of your pet’s rehabilitation team. In fact, you’re the most important person! It’s you who puts in the time for structured walks, planned exercises, and specific stretches. You are also the one who makes time to bring your pet to us for their treatments. So, thank you for working alongside us and trusting us to look after your furry family member!

 What To Expect At Your Pet’s Initial Assessment

The Initial Assessment consists of two parts. The first session is a 60 minute appointment, during which Iwe'll create a tailored rehabilitation plan and administer any necessary pain therapies, such as phototherapy/laser, massage etc. We'll also provide a home exercise program for continued benefit. The second session is also a 60 minute appointment and is scheduled approximately 7-10 days later. It includes a progress assessment and an orientation in the aqua treadmill, if required. This session is crucial for reviewing and progressing the rehabilitation exercises prescribed during the first appointment. A referral from your veterinarian is necessary before the initial assessment to ensure we have a comprehensive understanding of your pet's medical history and the treatments already received. After the initial assessment, we'll discuss a rehabilitation plan for your pet and the recommended treatments, along with the associated costs and frequency of visits.

We will supply everything including a wash down after their underwater treadmill session. Though we supply our amazing homemade treats, if your pet has special dietary requirements we highly suggest bringing along their food/treats for motivation and reward. Just bring a towel for your car if your pet is having an underwater treadmill session or your pet’s favourite toy.

At your pet’s first few hydrotherapy sessions, you can expect that they will only have a short session, with rest breaks in between. If your pet is not used to water, their first session may be uncertain until they become accustomed to the routine. Remaining cheerful and encouraging will help to stop them becoming anxious. Walking in water is tiring work, so it is important not to overdo the exercise initially.

The Benefits of Home Exercises

 
 
 

Home exercise programs offer numerous benefits for pets undergoing rehabilitation:

  1. Convenience: Home exercises can be performed in the comfort of your pet's familiar environment, reducing stress and anxiety associated with visiting a clinic frequently.

  2. Consistency: With a structured program provided by professionals, you can ensure that your pet receives regular and consistent exercise, which is crucial for their rehabilitation progress.

  3. Tailored to Individual Needs: The exercises prescribed in a home program are specifically tailored to address your pet's unique condition, ensuring that they receive targeted therapy for their specific needs.

  4. Promotes Bonding: Performing exercises with your pet at home can strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend, enhancing your relationship and promoting trust.

  5. Enhances Compliance: Pets may be more likely to comply with exercise regimens when performed at home, especially if they feel more comfortable in their familiar surroundings.

  6. Encourages Independence: By teaching both pet and owner how to perform exercises at home, it promotes independence and empowers owners to actively participate in their pet's rehabilitation journey.

  7. Improves Functional Mobility: Home exercises focus on improving your pet's functional mobility, helping them regain strength, flexibility, and coordination needed for everyday activities.

  8. Continued Progress: Consistent home exercises can help maintain the progress achieved during clinic sessions, ensuring that your pet continues to improve between appointments.

  9. Cost-Effective: Home exercise programs can be a cost-effective option compared to frequent clinic visits, as they eliminate the need for additional professional supervision for every session.

  10. Long-Term Management: Home exercise programs not only aid in rehabilitation but also provide tools for long-term management of chronic conditions, promoting overall health and well-being.

Overall, a home exercise program is a valuable component of pet rehabilitation, offering benefits that complement and enhance the outcomes achieved through professional therapy sessions.