07/08/2025
🐾 10 Vet Rehab Myths — BUSTED! 🐕🦺✨
❌ Myth 1: “My pet is limping but doesn’t seem to be in pain"
👉REALITY: While some gait change can* be mechanical or non-painful, when our pets offload a leg or change the way they move it is often because there IS discomfort. Because signs of pain are not always obvious e.g. whining, extreme behaviour changes, loss of appetite etc, many owners can miss signs of hidden pain or mobility issues that physiotherapy can address early on.
❌ Myth 2: “My dog will just rest and heal on their own, no need for physio.”
👉 REALITY: People often believe rest alone is enough, but too much rest can cause muscle loss and stiffness without proper rehab input
❌ Myth 3: “My pet is too old or too fragile for physiotherapy.”
👉 REALITY: Owners worry physio might be too hard or stressful for senior or sick pets, when it most often actually vastly improves their quality of life.
❌ Myth 4: “I can just watch videos and do physio or hydro at home.”
👉 REALITY: DIY rehab without professional guidance risks incorrect techniques or worsening injury. A trained vet physio assesses your pet’s unique condition and customises SAFE, effective treatment plans.
❌ Myth 5: Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy are only for dogs
👉 REALITY: There’s a common misconception that rehab is dog-only, but cats and other animals can benefit too!
❌ Myth 6: “It’s too expensive and not worth it.”
👉 REALITY: Cost can be a big concern, and some owners don’t see the immediate benefit, but long-term rehab often saves money by preventing more serious problems.
❌ Myth 7: “Physiotherapy is a luxury—pets don’t really need it.”
👉 REALITY: Vet physio is medical treatment, NOT luxury. It’s proven to reduce pain, improve joint function, and enhance/speed up recovery
❌ Myth 8: “Only injured or post-surgery pets benefit from physiotherapy.”
👉 REALITY: Physiotherapy helps prevent injuries, improve muscle tone, and maintain mobility in healthy pets, too! It’s especially important for seniors and active animals to stay strong and pain-free.
❌ MYTH 9: “My pet is just getting old, stiffness is normal”
👉 REALITY: While stiffness is common as our pets age, conditions like arthritis are painful, and older pets often benefit the most from physio - there is great scope to improve their quality of life.
❌ Myth 10: “Physiotherapy is only for recovery after injury or surgery.”
👉 REALITY: While physio is crucial for recovery, it’s also highly effective as a preventative measure and for managing chronic conditions.
💡 The takeaway: Trust evidence-based veterinary physiotherapy—your furry friend deserves expert care 🐾️
