What is the primary goal of canine physical therapy?

The primary goal of canine physical therapy is to restore function, improve mobility, and manage pain in dogs. This field focuses on rehabilitation techniques that are designed to help dogs recover from injuries, surgeries, or medical conditions. By promoting movement, physical therapy can help alleviate pain, restore strength, and enhance the overall physical well-being of the dog.

Restoring function is essential for returning a dog to its normal activities and quality of life. This includes addressing issues such as range of motion and muscle strength, which are crucial for a dog’s mobility. Improving mobility contributes to the dog's ability to perform everyday tasks, such as walking, running, or playing, which are vital for their physical and mental health.

Pain management is another significant aspect of this therapy, as chronic or acute pain can severely limit a dog's ability to move comfortably. The techniques used in canine physical therapy often involve exercises, manual therapies, and modalities such as heat or cold therapy, electrical stimulation, and therapeutic ultrasound, all aimed at achieving these important objectives.

Therefore, the focus on restoring function, improving mobility, and managing pain directly aligns with the primary goals of canine physical therapy, making it the correct choice.