Therapy Services
Canine physical therapy is changing the way pet owners think about their dog's health and recovery. At Macke Institute of Canine Therapy, we offer a range of evidence-based services designed to reduce pain, restore function, and help your dog get back to doing what they love - alongside you.
Evaluation
Every great treatment plan starts with a thorough evaluation. Your therapist will conduct a comprehensive assessment of your dog's physical health, movement patterns, and functional limitations to develop a personalized plan of care. The evaluation is the foundation for everything that follows.
Manual Therapy
Skilled hands are one of a physical therapist's most powerful tools. Manual therapy allows your therapist to assess and treat the body in ways that other modalities cannot replicate - addressing joint mobility, soft tissue restrictions, and pain through direct, hands-on techniques. It is research-supported and particularly effective for both orthopedic and neurological conditions.
Therapeutic Exercise
Not all exercise is created equal. A customized therapeutic exercise plan targets the specific muscles your dog needs to strengthen in order to recover fully and move well. Exercise is central to physical therapy because it builds the functional strength and endurance that support long-term health, not just short-term symptom relief.
Conservative Management
In some cases, conditions that might otherwise lead to surgery can be managed effectively through physical therapy and rehabilitation. If your veterinarian has raised the possibility of surgery, it is worth asking whether a conservative management approach may be appropriate for your dog's specific situation. We work closely with your veterinary team to explore every option.
Pain Management
Dogs are remarkably good at masking discomfort, often continuing to move and play long after pain has set in. By the time signs become visible, many dogs are already hurting significantly. Physical therapy addresses pain at its source - using a combination of therapeutic modalities and targeted treatment to reduce discomfort and improve your dog's quality of life.
Pre- & Post-Surgery
Physical therapy can play an important role both before and after surgery. Pre-surgical rehabilitation helps your dog build strength and body awareness going into the procedure, which can support a smoother recovery. Post-surgical rehabilitation focuses on restoring the muscle mass and function lost during the procedure and recovery period, helping your dog regain mobility as effectively as possible.
Palliative Care
For dogs in the later stages of life or managing a terminal diagnosis, physical therapy can provide meaningful comfort and improved quality of life. Our palliative care approach focuses on reducing pain, maintaining gentle movement, and supporting both your dog and your family through a tender season.
Orthotics & Assistive Devices
Orthotic and assistive devices can be a valuable part of your dog's care plan, but proper fit is essential. An ill-fitting device can cause discomfort or lead to additional problems. We provide accurate measurements and fitting guidance to help ensure your dog's device works as intended from the start.
Sports Medicine
For active dogs and canine athletes, physical therapy can help optimize performance and reduce the risk of sports-related injuries. Whether your dog competes, works, or simply loves to run and play, we can help address any physical limitations and support their long-term athletic health.
Weight Loss
Excess weight places added stress on joints and contributes to inflammation throughout the body. Even modest weight loss can meaningfully reduce pain and improve mobility, particularly in dogs managing osteoarthritis or chronic lameness. We incorporate weight management guidance into our treatment plans when appropriate, always in coordination with your veterinarian's recommendations.










