Frequently Asked Questions
Although canine rehab is become more popular, no two clinics are the same. We’ve compiled some of our most frequently asked questions to try to better explain how Pawsitively Fit operates!
The terms physio and rehab are used interchangeably. The terms physiotherapist and physiotherapy are protected terms and should only be used when discussing the treatment of humans. Physio is not a protected term or title and can be used by anyone. Because the terms canine physio or canine rehab can be used by anyone, regardless of education or training, we recommend you always seek to learn more about the qualifications of anyone you have working with your dog.
No. Our educational background is physiotherapy with specialization in canine rehab. Pawsitively Fit services are not a replacement for regular veterinary care.
In Ontario, it is not clear in the law if a veterinarian referral is required. However, it is our preference to request referrals to ensure good communication and continuity of care between ourselves and primary or specialty vets.
Many pet insurance companies do cover our services but not all. We recommend you contact your insurance company to determine if your pet has coverage. Most require a veterinarian referral in order for you to be reimbursed as we do not direct bill. We are happy to complete any submission forms you require for insurance and will provide you with itemized receipts.
No. We are a mobile practice which makes underwater treadmill (UWT) impossible. Many people do find us when seeking out this modality. While is often used synonymously with canine rehab, they are not the same thing. UWT is unable to treat pain, specifically strength muscles or provide appropriate progression of exercises in many cases. If you’d like to know more about UWT check our this blog.
While we specialize in senior dogs, we do see dogs of all ages and have seen dogs as young as 4 weeks and as old as 17 (but we’d love to meet even older dogs!). Having a younger dog does not disqualify you from seeking our services.
Our clients are dog lovers and many have more than one dog. Your other dogs are welcome to join our appointments. If your dog tends to get in the way (what good sibling doesn’t rival for attention now and then?!) then we may ask that they be put in a different area of the house while we work with “the patient.” At the very least we always love to say hi and give some love to your other fur babies!
Absolutely! Some owners are pleasantly surprised by how well their dog does with rehab. Our appointments are very different than a vets and we have more time to get to know each other. Some dogs really do not want to be handled by us and that is okay! And unless your dog is muzzle trained, we don’t typically use muzzles as we find this further upsets dogs. Instead we will either observe movement or have you be our hands for us!
If your dog is particularly anxious, you may also consider a virtual session. We are able to achieve the same results without adding the stress and anxiety of having a new person in the house.
Our main area of coverage stretches from Napanee to Gananoque and to South Frontenac. If you aren’t sure if we will go as far as wherever you are, just ask us! If you really are too far, virtual sessions are a great option as well. We’ve had a trend of many out of area clients coming to see us for a first session and then switching to virtual sessions after the fact. We are more than happy to discuss your situation and come up with a mutually agreeable plan.
Get in touch with us! You can use the chat widget on the bottom right, text us, call us or email us. But if you send a carrier pigeon or smoke signal just know we might not see it!