A: There are rehabilitation/physical therapy (rehab) hospitals for dogs - and even cats - just like there are for people. Demand is growing for rehab as veterinary care has advanced and pets are living longer.

Most people think of rehab as something used after a surgery or medical problem has already occurred.

We can also help pets gain strength or lose weight before procedures such as hip replacement and anterior cruciate ligament repair.

Most rehab hospitals have underwater treadmills that allow pets to run or walk without putting stress on their joints. They also use exercise balls, balancing balls or plates, and obstacle courses to increase strength and dexterity.

Rehab is becoming standard care after many surgical procedures. There is also tremendous benefit in strengthening and increasing flexibility for arthritic patients. Rehab can have tremendous benefits for pre- and post-surgical care, arthritis, neurologic problems, and many other conditions.