Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation for Animals: A Guide for the Consumer Paperback – September 7, 2013

I purchased this book on my Kindle and it was so helpful and gave such great guidance of what to expect with different conditions and how PT works for your pet. My dog Oscar had surgery for a luxating patella (meaning his kneecap moves out of its normal location) and he had what is considered the worst version of this (grade 4.) Susan's book was so reassuring and helpful and gave me an understanding of his condition, what it meant and what physical therapy could do for him. Plus, she writes in such an informative and understandable manner. It really helped me and I enjoyed reading how to find the right physical therapist, what they do during treatment and what you can expect. Super helpful and a great resource!

Great book!

Very helpful. My small dog has 2 collapsed disc in his neck. He is presently in Physical Therapy & this book describes almost all of the exercises we have been taught. Book is informative about alternatives to drugs and highly effective physical treatments for various types of illnesses and painful conditions.Prior to taking my dog to a physical therapist, I had a hard time understanding some of what the author wrote. She does stress that she cannot write programs for dogs' conditions since she is writing about a dog in general. The book is mainly what to look for in a physical therapist and what to expect from them.

A body in motion tends to stay in motion, according to Isaac Newton. And that is the basic philosophy behind physical therapy and rehabilitation in humans and animals. In Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation for Animals, Susan Davis describes physical therapy as the science of applying physics and biomechanics to patients with injury, illness, loss of function, physical abnormality, and other impairments. With humans and animals, trained physical therapists combine their knowledge of anatomy with kinesiology and physiology to treat patients.Choosing to focus mainly on canines, Davis describes, in great detail, the many reasons why and how physical therapy may work to aid the healing process. Listing injuries and conditions from cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tearing/rupturing to hip dysplasia to stroke and seizure, she explains proper exercises that will aid in recovery, thus allowing the dog to live on, happy and healthy.Drawing on over 30 years’ experience in physical therapy and using real life examples, this book explains the need for and benefits of physical therapy and rehabilitation. While many of the conditions described might sound completely foreign to the average person, Davis provides very understandable solutions. This book is easy to read and interesting to say the least.Fifty years ago, when physical therapy was just beginning to blossom as a common practice, people would have looked at Davis like she was crazy, but now, after reading this book, it seems like everyone should be aware that this is an option (and a rather good one) for animals recovering from anything from neurological conditions to arthritis. Using a plethora of techniques including, but not limited to, laser treatment, shock therapy, and massage, Davis has undoubtedly helped hundreds of dogs in her career.Heed the advice from square one and never take on a healing regiment without consulting a veterinarian first, but read this book and you will have no doubt that rehab isn’t just for junkies anymore, it’s for Fido too. Or Chloe the calico, or Harry the hamster, or even Geoff the giraffe. Because, after all, don’t they deserve a massage once in a while too? Quality of life isn’t just for people anymore, so let's help our four-legged friends feel better, shall we?Book was provided for review and there was no monetary compensation.

Physical therapy is not only for humans. It is actually beneficial to many animals. Whether the animal is a pampered pet or a working animal, there are many benefits to be gained. This book explains the needs and benefits of physical therapy.Author Susan E. Davis is a licensed physical therapist. She has more than three decades of experience. She worked initially in human physical therapy, but then veterinary physical therapy became her specialty. She has worked in many settings, from homecare to zoos.Physical therapy is used for a variety of reasons, treating the various stages of life, illness, injury, and age. Physical therapy can also prevent or treat injuries. This is especially helpful in those who are active or working, whether in a competitive arena or a working situation. It can strengthen or promote healing, depending upon the need and case.In this book, you will learn about the history and evolution of physical therapy. You will also learn about the many methods available, and their particular benefits. There are natural (holistic) methods available. These types of therapy may include Reiki and acupuncture, as well as many other options. Traditional methods may involve splints, wraps, and the use of manipulation or equipment. The reader learns the differences in traction and strengthening, as well as how each one works.Using actual case studies, you will learn how the type of physical therapy is prescribed. You will then see how it can be utilized properly. Each animal, like each human, is different in both need and capability. Only a qualified healthcare expert can diagnose and prescribe the appropriate method. However, an educated owner can help in maintenance and care of their pets.The book is easy to read and use. The author lists related topics and resources along with the appendix. I recommend this book to pet owners, and to those who work with animals. I have used physical therapy, and performed it on my pets. I can attest to its many benefits in healing and in prolonging quality of life. This is an essential volume to those who love the animals in their care.