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Press Reprinted with permission of the Hunterdon County Democrat Therapist: Old dog's best friend? Thursday, June 05, 2008 LEBANON TWP. -- For many older dogs like Chammi, my 13-year-old golden retriever, getting around becomes increasingly difficult with age. Joint supplements and anti-inflammatory drugs can help, but according to certified canine rehabilitation expert Petra Ford, a custom program of therapy and exercise can improve the quality and length of life for many canine seniors. Ms. Ford, a practicing physical therapist for people since 1998, currently treats dogs at her township home. This fall, she'll open Aqua Dog, a full-service rehabilitation facility in Flanders with business partner and veterinarian Kristine Conway of Mine Hill. In 2002, Ms. Ford became interested in canine rehabilitation while competing with her Labrador retrievers in obedience, agility and field trials. As an avid runner and former professional cyclist, she knew the importance of proper conditioning and hoped to combine her work experience, fitness background and love for animals. In her practice, she uses the same techniques and concepts as for people to ensure that joints and muscles function together efficiently. My veterinarian suggested a visit to Ms. Ford when Chammi grew increasingly weak in her rear. During the initial examination, Ms. Ford identified Chammi's problem areas, stretched and massaged her, and recommended a series of at-home exercises. Within weeks, Chammi had a little more bounce in her step and was navigating stairs more easily. These results are typical, says Ms. Ford. "I put a lot of emphasis on training the owner to work on their dogs, stretch their dogs, do simple exercises and teach them what to look for in terms of prevention and early detection," she says. Older dogs may initially slow down because of minor health problems or a simple lack of exercise. That makes their muscles weaker and tighter, which, in turn, places additional stress on other parts of he body. Physical therapy can break the cycle, she explains, giving owners a welcome alternative to euthanizing an otherwise healthy dog. In addition to seniors, Ms. Ford treats performance dogs that compete in weekend athletic activities. Prevention is key, she says, because these weekend warriors often lie around during the week while their owners are at work. "They'll take the dog out on a nice day and throw a Frisbee and it blows out its ACL (anterior cruciate ligament)," she says, which often requires surgery. She also assesses young puppies for potential problems, develops weight-loss programs for pudgy pooches and rehabs dogs that have undergone surgical procedures like hip replacement. "If we get them early, we decrease pain and facilitate healing and recovery," she says. "If a human has hip replacement, they don't tell you not to move for a month. They get you moving right way. It's the same thing with dogs." Aqua Dog will offer advanced treatment options like an underwater treadmill, pool and ultrasound equipment, but according to Ms. Ford, her "hands and brain are the most important" tools because each dog is different. "Every time I see a human, I touch them and do an automatic reassessment. That's what I like to do with the dogs," she says. Her greatest satisfaction comes from seeing her patients transformed into happier and more functional pets. "People should know there are options and that most dogs can improve," she says. For more information, visit www.aquadogrehab.com.
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