FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who can benefit from animal rehabilitation?
All pets can benefit from rehabilitation. We treat a number of different conditions from the post-operative pet to the pet with a chronic condition such as arthritis. Athletes can also benefit from regular evaluation and treatment to address conditioning and maintenance. Senior pets make up a large sector of those in need of regular care to help prevent loss of independence as they age.
What can I expect at the first visit?
Your pet will receive a comprehensive physical assessment as well as review of your pet's history. Most initial appointments last 90-120 minutes. Once the evaluation is complete a treatment plan will be developed and will likely include multiple modalities to address the issues. Some of these treatments will be executed at the initial appointment. All treatment plans include stretching and strengthening exercises that you can do at home. You will be shown how to perform these exercises as well as having access to the online video library (coming soon!) demonstrating the therapeutic exercises.
How soon after surgery can my pet begin rehab?
We can often start right away for many procedures. The initial rehab focuses on passive treatments to decrease inflammation and pain, maintain joint range of motion, and encourage healing. Once the incision is healed then we can start some low impact exercises with strengthening goals in mind.
Do you offer bloodwork, vaccines, surgery?
Cleveland Veterinary Rehabilitation does not perform any of the above services. CVR is committed and limited to providing rehabilitation services only. We prefer to act as part of a team when it comes to your pet's health. These types of services should still be addressed by your pet's primary care veterinarian. We do, however, offer radiology or x-ray services as this diagnostic aid is crucial to providing a rehabilitation treatment plan.
Does my pet have to see their primary care veterinarian prior to my first appointment?
It is ideal, but not required. Your pet's full medical history is important to us as it may include underlying medical conditions that affect their rehab treatment plan.
Can my pet have rehab instead of surgery?
This really depends on your pet's individual condition. For many cases the best outcome is achieved with a combination of surgery followed by rehab. However, in some cases rehab can be an effective alternative to surgery. We understand that sometimes surgery is not an option due to multiple factors. In these cases rehab can be a great way to help your pet achieve and maintain their highest level of function and independence in a pain free way.
How long will my pet need rehab?
This answer is very dependent on your pet's condition. Eliminating pain, increasing strength and flexibility, and overall recovery are all variable processes. We are focused on helping your pet achieve realistic functional goals while also meeting your expectations. There will be a collaborative effort to figure out the best schedule that meets your pet's needs while staying within your budget.
What methods of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, check, or Visa and Mastercard.
How is a rehabilitation veterinarian different from a primary care veterinarian?
A rehabilitation veterinarian is a medical professional who has undergone post-graduate training and possesses the experience and knowledge to deliver rehabilitation services. They are highly trained to diagnose and manage soft tissue, orthopedic, and neurologic conditions beyond what was learned in veterinary school. A veterinarian certified in rehabilitation works closely with your primary care veterinarian and/or specialty veterinarian and leads the team in providing pain management.
Will pet insurance cover veterinary rehabilitation?
Most pet insurance companies do cover the initial evaluation as well as the treatments. We encourage you to research various pet insurance providers and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Will my pet's primary care veterinarian/specialist be updated about my pet's care and progress?
Yes, your pet's health care team will receive a summary of the findings as well as the recommendations for treatment after the initial evaluation.
What type of pets does CVR treat?
Rehab services are mostly sought after for dogs but cats can also greatly benefit, particularly since arthritis is so under recognized in felines.