Therapy Exercises Following Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair in Dogs.

Therapy exercises can help to optimize the outcome for dogs following cranial cruciate ligament repair surgery. This article focuses on land exercises that can be done with minimal equipment in home or in clinic. The first 8 weeks of recovery are covered including therapy and basic exercises for each phase.

Rehabilitation Therapy in Perioperative Pain Management.

Physical agent modalities can be effective in the perioperative period for controlling pain and inflammation. This article presents research-based evidence to support the use of these modalities in pain management and to reduce the use of pain medications, including opioids. The mechanism of action, applications, contraindications, and adverse effects of cryotherapy, pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, and laser therapy are reviewed. Incorporation of 1 or more of these therapies in anesthesia pain management protocols can improve outcomes and reduce potential drug side effects.

Alternative therapies in veterinary dermatology.

This article presents an overview of alternative therapies for skin disorders including traditional Chinese medicine (acupuncture and Chinese herbs), homeopathy, and Western herbs and plant extracts. The medical and veterinary literature on the aforementioned modalities will be reviewed with a focus on reduction of inflammation and pruritus of the skin and ear canal in the canine species. Clinical application and potential adverse effects will also be included when available.