Send us a text

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273

Send us a text

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273

Send us a text

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273

Send us a text

In this thought-provoking episode, Anthony Schena, CCAT, delves into the often-overlooked topic of canine mental health, particularly as it relates to the rehabilitation process. Just like humans, our furry friends can experience anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges that impact their well-being and recovery. 🐶💭

Anthony discusses how to recognize signs of mental distress in dogs, key factors that influence their emotional state during rehab, and strategies to support their psychological needs. 🔍🩺

Key takeaways from the episode:
- Recognizing signs of anxiety in dogs, such as excessive panting, pacing, restlessness, destructive behaviors, and changes in appetite 😥🐾
- Identifying indicators of depression, including lethargy, social withdrawal, increased sleep, and discomfort 😴💔
- Understanding the impact of physical limitations and lifestyle changes on a dog's mental health during rehab 🦿🧩
- Key factors affecting mental well-being, such as sudden changes in routine and environment, separation from family members, medication side effects, prolonged discomfort, restricted activity, boredom, and social isolation 🏥🗓️💊
- Strategies to support mental health, including maintaining a consistent routine, providing mental stimulation through food puzzles, interactive toys, and scent games 🧩👃
- The importance of safe social opportunities, such as leashed visits with calm doggie friends and extra cuddle time with human family members 🐶🤗
- Teaching alternative skills, like basic obedience, tricks, and dog-friendly brain games to boost confidence and a sense of accomplishment 🎓🧠
- Managing the rehab environment with calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers, white noise machines, compression wraps, gentle massage, and specialized music 🎵🌿
- Involving a certified veterinary behaviorist for personalized strategies, support, and guidance in desensitizing dogs to necessary handling and exercises 👩‍⚕️🐾

Anthony emphasizes the powerful mind-body connection in both humans and animals, highlighting how mental stress and emotional tension can slow physical healing by impacting immune function, sleep quality, and appetite. 🌉💤🍽️

As the episode concludes, Anthony reminds listeners that every dog is an individual, and the key is to stay attuned to their unique needs while working closely with the veterinary and rehab team to develop a plan that supports both physical and emotional well-being. 🐾💖

#CanineMentalHealth #RehabAndRecovery #MindfulMuzzles #SupportingFurryFriends #HolisticHealing #CanineRehab

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273

Send us a text

In this insightful episode, Anthony Schena, CCAT, delves into the importance of creating environments that nurture healing and recovery in the world of canine rehabilitation. This episode offers valuable insights for both professionals and pet owners looking to create the best possible spaces for their furry friends' recovery. 🩺🏠

Before diving into the main topic, Anthony shares exciting updates about upcoming launches in education and business consulting for the canine rehab community, set to take place in mid-April. 📅🎓

The episode explores the various factors that contribute to a healing environment, including safety, comfort, sensory elements, and psychological aspects. 🔒🛋️🌈💭

Key takeaways from the episode:
- The importance of non-slip floors, safe equipment storage, and puppy-proofing in ensuring a safe rehab environment 🦮🔐
- The role of comfortable bedding, quiet spaces, and natural lighting in promoting relaxation and willingness to engage in rehab activities 🛏️🌞
- The psychological impact of familiar items, pheromone diffusers, and a calm, reassuring approach from rehab professionals 🧸💆‍♀️
- The ideal layout of rehab spaces, including separate zones for active exercise, rest, and hydrotherapy 🏋️‍♀️😴🏊‍♂️
- The significance of sound management, air quality, and temperature control in creating a stress-free environment 🔇🌬️🌡️
- Incorporating nature, calming colors, and minimalistic decor to induce a sense of tranquility 🌿🎨🧘‍♀️
- The role of technology and equipment, such as underwater treadmills and laser therapy machines, and the importance of gradual, positive introduction 🌊🏃‍♂️🔦
- Creating comfortable and engaging spaces with soft bedding, puzzle toys, and interactive play to make rehab a positive experience 🧩🎾😊
- Setting up home rehab spaces with non-slip mats, comfortable bedding, and repurposed everyday items for exercises 🏠💪

Anthony emphasizes the goal of making rehabilitation a positive experience that dogs look forward to, rather than something they dread. By balancing functionality, comfort, and engagement, professionals and pet owners can create sanctuaries for recovery and growth. 🌈💕

As the episode concludes, Anthony encourages listeners to create spaces that foster healing and happiness for all furry friends. 🐾😄

#CanineRehabEnvironment #HealingSpaces #PetRecovery #NurturingHealing #TailsWagging #CanineRehab

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273

Send us a text

In this informative episode, Anthony Schena, CCAT, takes us on an adorable journey into the world of puppy and kitten rehabilitation, discussing the unique considerations and specialized approaches needed when treating our tiniest furry friends. 💕🩺

Inspired by the recent Puppy Bowl and his experience at the VMX conference, Anthony dives deep into the topic, providing valuable insights for veterinarians, rehab specialists, and pet owners alike. 🐾📚

Before delving into the main topic, Anthony shares exciting updates about upcoming projects and collaborations, including a new podcast focused on the business side of canine rehab and a collaboration with CRI (Canine Rehabilitation Institute) on their upcoming podcast. 🎧🤝

In this episode, Anthony covers:
- Common injuries and issues that bring puppies and kittens to rehabilitation, such as hypermobile joints, open growth plates, ligament tears, and neurological deficits 🦴🧠
- Real patient stories, including Millie the Cocker Spaniel, Winston the Great Dane, Coco the Yorkie, Oliver the Tabby, Luna the Siamese, and Mindy the tail amputation case 📝🐶🐱
- Tailoring rehab for young patients, focusing on gentle techniques, conservative dosage, and engaging activities 🧘‍♀️🎯
- Creative solutions for keeping puppies and kittens engaged during rehab, such as incorporating play and owner involvement 🎾👥
- The importance of building trust and adapting the rehab environment for kittens, using familiar objects and rewards 🐱💕
- A case study of Zoe, the energetic Lab puppy recovering from a partial ACL tear, showcasing the tailored rehab plan and successful outcome 🐾✨

Anthony emphasizes the importance of starting gentle and staying conservative when treating young patients, minding growth plate closure times and ligament laxity while providing pain relief, gentle mobility, and nutrition support. 🌿💆‍♀️

The episode highlights the significance of building trust, especially with kittens, by introducing rehab slowly, creating a safe environment, and using play-based exercises and rewards. 🐱🎉

As the episode concludes, Anthony reminds listeners that developing structures in puppies and kittens remain vulnerable, and gentle guidance goes a long way in their rehab journey. 🐾🌈

#PuppyRehab #KittenRehab #DogPT #TinyJointsBigHearts #GentleGuidance #CanineRehab

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273

Send us a text

In this captivating episode of the Rehab Lab Podcast, Joe Lemon sits down with Anthony Schena, CCAT, to dive into the fascinating world of canine rehabilitation. Anthony shares his journey from human physical therapy to becoming a certified canine rehab specialist and the challenges and rewards of starting his own practice. 🌟💼

Anthony discusses the importance of educating pet owners and the veterinary community about the benefits of canine rehab, emphasizing the need for collaboration and community-building within the industry. 🤝💡

Key insights from the episode:
- The transition from human PT to canine rehab and the unique challenges and opportunities it presents 🏥🐾
- Building awareness and educating the community about canine rehab through lunch and learns, community events, and library talks 📣🐶
- The significance of a strong online presence and informative website in attracting and educating potential clients 🌐💻
- Overcoming the challenges of taking over an existing practice and the importance of seeking help and mentorship 🎓🙌
- The role of advanced modalities like shockwave therapy and laser therapy in addressing the underserved senior pet population 👵🐕
- Pricing strategies for canine rehab services and the benefits of charging for time rather than using an a la carte model 💰⏰
- The crucial role of client education and transparency in building trust and ensuring successful outcomes 🤝📚
- The importance of a collaborative approach between veterinarians and rehab specialists for optimal patient care 🩺🤝

Anthony's passion for helping animals and commitment to advancing the field of canine rehab shines through in this engaging conversation. His insights and experiences serve as valuable lessons for both aspiring and established professionals in the industry. 🌟💖

#CanineRehab #DogPT #PetHealthcare #RehabLabPodcast #CollaborationOverCompetition

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273

Send us a text

In this thought-provoking follow-up episode, Anthony Schena, CCAT your host of "An Underdog Story," delves deeper into the importance of fostering collaboration and building a nurturing community within the diverse and dynamic world of animal rehabilitation. 🤝💡

Anthony emphasizes that community is the foundation, support system, knowledge hub, and motivational force that drives excellence in animal rehabilitation. It is a tapestry woven with threads of experience, expertise, and empathy, each adding unique colors and strengths to the collective understanding and approach. 🌈💪

The episode highlights the importance of creating a community not just among healthcare professionals but also involving pet parents to enhance the care provided to furry companions. 👨‍⚕️👩‍⚕️🐶

In this episode, Anthony discusses:
- The role of community in the ever-evolving landscape of animal rehab, serving as a fountain of insights, best practices, and innovative approaches 💡🌿
- The importance of building a network to share experiences, learn from each other, and collaborate for the betterment of animal care 🌐🐾
- Ways to bridge the gap between general veterinary practice and specialized standalone rehab clinics through awareness, education, and referral networks 🏥🤝🏨
- The significance of promoting openness and inclusivity as cornerstones of a thriving community 🌈🤗

Anthony also addresses the challenges faced in building an animal rehab community, such as overcoming traditional mindsets of working in professional silos and logistical barriers. He suggests leveraging technologies like online forums and virtual conferences to overcome these obstacles. 💻🌐

The role of pet parents in contributing to the community is highlighted, as they provide invaluable insights into their pets' behaviors and needs. Encouraging their active participation enriches the community with unique experiences and perspectives. 🐕‍🦺👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Envisioning the future of animal rehab, Anthony sees a bright, connected, collaborative, and committed community where knowledge flows freely, and every member feels valued and empowered to contribute. The goal is to make animal rehab the norm rather than a niche. 🔮🌟

As the episode concludes, Anthony offers words of encouragement to professionals aspiring to be active community members, urging them to dive in with an open heart and mind. Together, they can learn, grow, and flourish in the shared mission to enhance the lives of beloved furry companions. 🙌💕

#AnimalRehabCommunity #CollaborationIsKey #KnowledgeSharing #PetParentPartnership #UnitedInPurpose

If you have any questions, concerns, or want to share your
"Underdog Story" - please send an email to:
anthony@alpharehabandfitness.com

Check us out on all of our platforms here:
https://linktr.ee/alpharehabandfit

Or call Anthony directly at Alpha Animal Rehab and Fitness:
908-454-2273