In 2010, we launched our Vet Therapies product line and brought Dr. Erica Shoults on board to bring rehabilitation services to clinics across the country. We recently sat down and asked her about her last year working with the products. We wanted to understand her role and, most importantly, how we were helping pets every where.
Erica and her dog, Splash
- When did you join PetSafe?
I was thrilled to accept this fantastic opportunity to work with PetSafe and focus on providing the best therapeutic products available for pets in November 2010. It was a chance to be a part of something new and exciting within the vet industry that no one else has.
- Had you ever used or heard of the Vet Therapy products before?
Yes, I had. I had been educating veterinary therapists about them for the past 5 years.
- What have you learned about vet therapies since joining the team?
I’ve learned these devices are becoming more and more accepted into mainstream veterinary practice, which leaves the future wide open. It wasn’t too long ago when cleaning your pet’s teeth seemed ridiculous, but now it’s a typical, annual appointment. I feel rehabilitation and physical therapy for animals will soon become part of pets’ health and recovery.
- What are the first signs a pet may need vet therapies?
The most common reason a pet needs physical rehabilitation is after an operation, such as knee or hip surgery. Other indications for needing therapy may be chronic arthritis, neurologic issues or muscle strains/sprains.
- What Vet Therapies products does Petsafe offer?
Our Intelect Vet, which combines electrotherapy and therapeutic ultrasound, and the Vectra Genisys Laser are two non-invasive and drug-free solutions for animal pain and healing. Our Stance Analyzer aids in diagnosing standing lameness, and the PetSafe Underwater Treadmill provides hydrotherapy for pets.
- How can each product enhance an animal’s treatment and affect his recovery?
All of these products, besides the Stance Analyzer, help speed up healing while making the pet more comfortable. These devices help with pain management, increase circulation to certain areas and allow the patient to physically exercise so they can get back to as normal activity as possible. The Stance Analyzer is used in coordination with these therapies to objectively show the patient’s progress over time.
- How can a pet parent find a veterinarian that uses any or all of our products?
Soon, we will be posting that information on our website. You may also click here to see who may be certified in veterinary rehab in their area.
- How much do the treatments usually cost?
A typical treatment session usually runs around $50 on average. The session is about 30 minutes and can include treatments with several different tools. Of course, this is not set in stone and will depend on the issue with the pet and the veterinarian.
- What are the greatest benefits of the Vet Therapies products?
They provide more options in the veterinary arsenal to make pets feel better. We as people expect some sort of physical therapy after surgery or when we hurt ourselves, and our pets deserve the same kind of treatment. By controlling pain and enhancing healing, our pets will be able to be a part of our families for many years to come.
So, how do you know when your pet needs vet therapies??
Check back on Sunday to find out!
