The Paws and Effect: Diving Deep into Therapeutic Exercise

The "Business" of Canine Rehabilitation: An Underdog Story

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In this dynamic episode, Anthony Schena, CCAT, takes us on an enlightening journey into the heart of animal rehab and therapeutic exercise, where science, art, and compassion intertwine to nurture healing. 🌿🩹
Anthony explains that therapeutic exercise is like specialized workouts tailored to an animal's specific needs, drawing inspiration from kinesiology, biomechanics, and neurology to foster healing, enhance body awareness, and cultivate optimal well-being. 🐶💪
While playtime is spontaneous and free, therapeutic exercise is structured, targeted, and goal-driven, designed based on an animal's health condition, age, and requirements. 🎯🐾
In this episode, Anthony breaks down the four pillars of therapeutic exercise:
1. Strengthening exercises like sit-to-stands and stair climbing to empower animals to conquer physical adversities 💪🐕
2. Balance and proprioception exercises using wobble boards and three-legged stands to fine-tune an animal's confidence and security 🤸‍♀️🐾
3. Endurance exercises like controlled leash walks and slow-paced ball fetching to gradually improve cardiovascular health 🏃‍♂️🎾
4. Flexibility and mobility exercises, including stretches to enhance flexibility, promote circulation, and fortify the body against injuries 🧘‍♀️🐶
Anthony emphasizes the importance of making therapeutic exercise fun and engaging for the animals, using treats, toys, and positive reinforcement. 🍖🎉
Specific exercises are tailored to different conditions, from gentle mobilizations for post-op dogs to plyometric exercises for athletic dogs aiming to enhance performance. 🩹🏅
The effectiveness of a therapeutic exercise plan is gauged by factors like the animal's mobility, pain levels, overall functionality, and pet owner feedback. 📊🐾
Pet owners play a crucial role in implementing exercises at home and ensuring consistency, while professionals are advised to stay informed and updated on the latest research and techniques. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦📚
Anthony shares common mistakes pet owners might make, such as overenthusiasm leading to over-exertion, skipping warm-ups, expecting instant results, or ignoring the dog's feedback. 🙅‍♀️🐶
Challenges in therapeutic exercise include ensuring compliance and adjusting based on the animal's tolerance and response to exercises. 🎢💡
The most rewarding aspect for Anthony is seeing an animal regain its zest for life and knowing he played a role in that journey. 😊🐾
As the episode concludes, Anthony reminds us that therapeutic exercise is a language of healing and hope, celebrating each step, stretch, and triumphant leap in the unique rhythm of each animal's recovery. 🌈🐶
#CanineRehab #TherapeuticExercise #PetHealth #MovementIsMedicine #StrongerStrides

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
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Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273