The Pet Lodge's Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1I don’t want surgery for my dog’s orthopedic injury. Can therapy help?
Dogs have been treated successfully using
non-surgical management for such injuries as
torn or partial tear cruciates and disk injuries.
Immediate treatment increases the rate of
success. It takes dedication on your part, too!
You will need to learn the exercises that will
safely help your pet get stronger.
2How often will my dog have to come for therapy?
Frequency and duration of therapy is
dependent on the dog and its condition.
Many require fewer than six sessions, and we
strongly believe in teaching the owners to
take responsibility for their own dog’s rehab,
if possible. Some pets require more extensive
rehab and may come as often as three times
per week for several weeks, followed by less
frequent visits, depending on progress. Many
dogs come for wellness and conditioning one
to two times weekly for swimming or manual
therapy.
3My dog needs surgery. When should I bring him for therapy?
The start of therapy will be decided by your
veterinarian/surgeon. In some circumstances,
early electrical stimulation therapy can help
prevent muscle atrophy. Sometimes immediate
post-operative therapies such as massage,
passive range of motion, laser and ice/heat
therapy are beneficial. Active therapy typically
begins after suture removal, which is about ten
days after surgery. Your surgeon will work with
us to decide what is best for your dog.
4My dog is afraid of water. Will you be able to get him in a pool/treadmill?
We use positive reinforcement and a lot of
TLC to help your dog feel at ease in the water.
Owner participation, including bringing favorite
toys and treats, will help your dog make the
transition to enjoying hydrotherapy. Most
dogs begin with some level of trepidation
upon entering the confinement of a treadmill,
but often learn to enjoy and look forward to
treatments.
5How long does a therapy session last?
Therapy lasts until the dog is well or the owner
feels satisfied with their dog’s progress and
can manage care at home. Initial evaluations
typically last approximately 60 minutes.
Subsequent sessions usually last about 30
minutes, depending on the plan of care.
6How do I get to the Pet Lodge?
Stoney Creek Pet Lodge & Rehab Center is located just off Interstate 40/85 in
Whitsett. We are convenient to the Piedmont Triad region of Greensboro, High Point
and Winston-Salem, and the Research Triangle area of Chapel Hill, Durham and
Raleigh. Also nearby are restaurants, accommodations, shopping and golf.