Frequently Asked Questions
Here you’ll find answers to some of the most common questions we receive…
If you’d like to speak with us about your dog’s health or our rehabilitation services, please contact us.
Q: Do you need to book an appointment?
A: Yes, we work on an appointment only basis. You can make an appointment by giving the clinic a call, sending us a text message, or sending an enquiry form to us through the website. Contact us here
Q: Do you need a vet referral?
A: You can contact us directly if you think hydrotherapy or physiotherapy might be the right choice for your dog. We will give you a quick call just to establish some basic information and if we are both happy then we will contact your vets and sort the paperwork for you. During your time with us we’ll continue to keep them updated on your dog’s progress with us too.
Q: Do you deal with pet insurance?
A: Yes, you can use your pet insurance for your rehabilitation treatment with us. We can explain how this works during that early call or when you come in.
Q: How long are the sessions?
A: Sessions are tailored to suit your own dog’s needs and ability and will be outlined with you during your initial assessment with us. In general, each session of hydrotherapy or physiotherapy will last for 30 minutes after our initial evaluation which takes an hour.
Q: How many sessions will we need?
A: The frequency and number of sessions depends on your dog’s condition and rehabilitation time. You may initially need to visit us weekly or twice weekly (we will discuss the merits of each with you and you make the decision on which one you feel is right for you), but we’ll go through all of this with you.
Q: What happens at my initial appointment?
A: At your initial appointment we’ll spend some time getting to know you, and of course your dog. You can let us know your concerns and what you’d hope to achieve from the treatment – that may be going for your favourite walks together again or for them to be able to jump up onto the sofa for a cuddle. It is your aims and goals that we feel are incredibly important. You will not be told have some medication and see how you go. We will check how they are moving (gait analysis), assess their joints, muscles and things like moving between sitting down and getting up. You’ll leave us after your initial appointment with all of the information you need of what’s going on with your dog and what we can do to help.
Q: Can I Feed My Dog Prior to Treatment?
A: No, prior to hydrotherapy we ask that you do not feed your dog for at least three hours before their session and for at least one hour following.
Q: Where are you located?
A: Our clinic is based on the outskirts of Darlington and is easily accessible from the A66 and the A1(M) which allows us to help so many dogs within Darlington, Durham, Stockton, Middlesbrough, Teesside and all surrounding towns and villages. We have lots of client parking directly outside of the clinic with areas in the shade for sunny days.
Q: Is my dog too old?
A: We would say no, no dog is ever too old for our rehabilitation treatment. We’ve helped to transform the lives of so many older dogs where their owners thought they were “just old” and that nothing more could be done.
Q: Can I go in with my dog?
A: Absolutely! We encourage you to stay in the room with your pet to support them during their sessions. It’s also a chance for our therapists to chat with you about their progress so far.
Q: What hours/days are you open?
A: We are open Monday-Saturday including some late-night appointments. Our current opening times are available on our contact page here.
Q: My dog has seizures/other health conditions, can they still come?
If your dog has any on-going medical problems, please let us know prior to their appointment. We may need to alter their treatment plan accordingly. Our team are all trained to deal with a medical emergency should we need to.
Q: Can I bring my other dog with me?
A: If possible it is better if you can attend the appointment with only the dog who is receiving the treatment. However, if you are unable to leave your other dog at home then please bring them along.
Q: Can I bring my partner/friend to the appointment?
A: Yes, it’s fine for you to attend the appointment with another member of your family or a friend. However, due to the space in the treatment rooms we try and limit each appointment to no more than two people.
Q: How do I pay?
A: Payment can be made by either cash or card and is due at each session. We also offer a block booking discount. Payment is due in full at the time of a block booking. If you are claiming through your insurance, you will need to pay for your session and claim it back from them.
Q: Do I leave my dog with you?
No, you don’t leave your dog with us. You’ll be invited in to watch each session.
For Physiotherapy, click here:
For Hydrotherapy, click here:
If you want to know more about how we can help, why not give us a call? Or, just click one the links below! We’re always exited to hear from you, and we cannot wait to give you the answers and results you both need. From all of us here at Butterwick Animal Rehab Clinic, we wish both you and your dog wellness, happiness, and joy, and we look forward to seeing both of you soon!
Enquire about getting started
We know you want the best of the best for your dog, and we also know you’re a busy person. If you want to get your dog back to being happier, healthier and doing what you both love and want to get booked in – click on the link below and fill out the short form for information about getting booked in and availability.
Enquire about free taster session
Not sure? No problem! Why not bring your dog in for a free, non-obligatory session in which we see what’s wrong, what can be done so you have all the information you need and start getting both you and your dog feeling more optimistic about the future? We mean it – no fees, no obligation, nothing: all we want is to meet you and to say ‘hi’ to your best friend. Click the link below to get booked in, now.
Talk to a Vet Physiotherapist
We know how difficult it is to trust someone else when it comes to the health of your dog. It’s just so hard. So, that’s exactly why we also know how important it is for you to ask all the questions you have, find out all the answers you need, and for you and your dog to trust us. So, give us a call to chat to one of our Vet Physio. We’d love to meet you and find out more about how we can help your dog, right now, just click the link below.