RHODY PETS: Physical therapy for animals in Charlestown

RhodyPets: Heal! Taking a mindful approach to PT for dogs World-class pet rehab therapist serves all needs, from senior animals to search-and-rescue dogs, in Charlestown

RHODY PET OF THE MONTH: MURPHY Bernese Mountain Dog mixed breed seeks quiet home

By Karen Kalunian

Murphy is a young, Bernese Mountain Dog mixed breed with a gorgeous coat and a beautiful smile. He is looking for a quiet adult-only home of dog-savvy owners with large breed experience. His dream home has a fenced-in backyard where he can run and play fetch; he also needs to be your one and only pet. Murphy is the type of boy who needs to form bonds. Once he trusts you and feels comfortable, you’ll see his true personality. If your situation fits the bill, please contact EGAPL Heart of RI for more information. Maybe you will be the one who gives Murphy the loving home he so deserves. Learn more at HeartofRI.org or contact at 401-467-3670 or heartofriadoption@gmail.com.

If you are looking to adopt or know of an animal in need, please contact Karen from Animal Talk directly at animaltalk1920@gmail.com

In her native UK, Louise Anderson tended to human injuries, running a chain of clinics for fire, ambulance, and police workers, even treating the aching backs of gardeners toiling over London’s 350-acre Hyde Park. When she relocated to Rhode Island with her American husband (who grew up vacationing in Westerly), she decided to combine her physical therapy skills with her lifelong love of animals and founded Rhode Island Pet Rehab in Charlestown.

“My clients come as vet referrals for issues ranging from injury recovery to arthritis. The first visit is always about gaining the pet’s trust. We meet in a relaxing setting with non-slip floors, soft furnishings, treats, and toys. When I touch them, the trouble spot is always the last place I go. Dogs have all sorts of tells, some will pant when you reach their problem area, others turn around suddenly and give you that look that says, ‘Watch what you’re doing!’ so I take all the time in the world.”

On occasion, Anderson enlists her “angel from heaven” rescue dog Teddy. “He’s like a therapy dog for dogs,” she laughs. Depending on the circumstance, Teddy can offer a reassuring presence, instigate play, or sometimes even act as stand-in: “When a pet is just too scared or too sore to receive treatment, I demonstrate on Teddy and have the owner practice the exercises on him, too.”

Each session is videoed so the pet owner can be certain they are getting the massage techniques correct at home. One of the stages involves aqua therapy, which has Anderson in the water at Burlingame Pond, even in the winter. “I wear waders up to my armpits!”

The work is deeply rewarding, especially when pets who have lost the use of their