What dogs can benefit from physical rehabilitation? How do I get an appointment? Why do I need a veterinarian referral before we start? Can I stay with my dog during the session? How long do the sessions last? How much does it cost? What can we expect at the initial evaluation? What should I bring with me to our first visit? How often will I need to come and for how long? Why is hydrotherapy so beneficial? What if my dog is scared of the water and/or can’t swim?
What dogs can benefit from physical rehabilitation?
	Every dog can benefit from physical rehabilitation, especially those with the following conditions: Had orthopedic surgery or injury Neurological disorders Overweight and/or unconditioned Athletes Geriatric Arthritic.
How do I get an appointment?
	Please call Kelly Hatton or Emily Alfonsi at 586-322-4454 and they will schedule an appointment for you.  You can also contact them via email at wilsonk9rehab@hotmail.com.
Why do I need a veterinarian referral before we start?
	A referral from your primary veterinarian or orthopedic surgeon is required for the safety of your pet.  It informs us of any restrictions and/or illnesses your dog may have that may require us to adjust the rehab program to suit your dog’s needs.  A referral form can be downloaded here.
Can I stay with my dog during the session?
	You can definitely stay with your dog while he or she is here.  In fact, we encourage it.  We like owners to participate so they can continue to do exercises at home.  Also, many dogs enjoy having their owner’s support while they are here.  However, drop-off services are available.
How long do the sessions last?
	For the first visit, plan on being here about an hour.  Follow-up visits are either 45-60 minutes for a full session, or 30 minutes for a half session.
How much does it cost?
	Initial Evaluations - $60 Full session (includes land therapy and hydrotherapy) - $60 Half session (includes ½ hours of either land therapy or hydrotherapy) - $30
What can we expect at the initial evaluation?
	During the initial evaluation, we discuss your dog’s history and do a physical evaluation to find out your dog’s weaknesses and goals.  At this point we start our program design by teaching you some home exercises to get you started.  A copy of these exercises will be emailed to you.  We will also discuss our recommendations regarding follow-up visits in the future.
What should I bring with me to our first visit?
	If your referring veterinarian gave you the completed referral form, please bring it to the first session.  If you have any other medical notes regarding the current condition, those would also be helpful.  We like to use a lot of positive reinforcement during exercises and do have treats for rewards.  If your dog is sensitive with certain treats or would prefer a toy, please feel free to bring anything he/she would see as a reward.  After the first visit we will usually schedule follow-up visits so please come prepared for that if possible.
How often will I need to come and for how long?
	Every dog recovers at his/her own pace, so it is really hard to predict how long his/her rehab program will last.  Typically, most clients come 1-3 times a week, 4-8 weeks.  After the first couple of visits we get a better idea about how quickly your dog is progressing.
Why is hydrotherapy so beneficial?
	Hydrotherapy has proven to be an excellent tool in rehabilitation.  The buoyancy of the water minimizes stress on the joints while the resistance allows the patient’s muscles to work hard.  A lot of times, dogs that can’t walk on the land are able to walk in the water due to support and pain relief.  Hydrotherapy is excellent for strengthening, conditioning, and weight loss.
What if my dog is scared of the water and/or can’t swim?
	A lot of dogs have fears of water and swimming.  During hydrotherapy, all dogs will be under direct supervision of a rehab specialist who goes into the pool to ensure your dog’s safety.  We use a lot of positive reinforcement, encouragement, and patience to help them overcome their fears.  Most dogs get used to the underwater treadmill very quickly which we feel is because their feet are touching the ground at all times.  Lifejackets can also be used to help assist your dog.