Business Details
21 Years
experience
Canine Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation in Rye, NH
Tails of Rye is a state-of-the-art canine rehabilitation center located in Rye, New Hampshire, dedicated to enhancing the health and mobility of dogs through advanced physical therapy techniques. Our facility combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate care, offering services such as underwater treadmill therapy, manual therapy, and neuromuscular stimulation to address conditions like arthritis, injuries, and neurological dysfunctions. Founded in 2005 by certified canine rehabilitation therapist Dimitra Kofitsas, we have built a reputation for excellence through 18 years of specialized experience and collaboration with local veterinarians. Our team of certified professionals brings extensive human physical therapy expertise to the canine world, ensuring personalized treatment plans tailored to each dog's unique needs.We prioritize communication with referring veterinarians to provide comprehensive care, utilizing evidence-based methods to accelerate recovery, reduce pain, and improve quality of life. Located just an hour from Boston, Manchester, and Portland, our facility serves pet owners committed to their dogs' well-being. Our therapists integrate fitness conditioning and weight management programs to promote long-term health, supported by a passion for animal care evident in every session. Whether addressing post-surgical recovery or chronic conditions, we strive to deliver results through innovative therapies and a deep understanding of canine physiology. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the trust earned from both clients and veterinary professionals throughout the Seacoast region.
Services
Underwater Treadmill
Manual Therapy
Neuromuscular Stimulation
Ultrasound Therapy
Laser Treatment
Weight Loss Program
Fitness Conditioning
Harness Fitting
Home Exercise Program
Details
- Year established: 2005
Highlights and features
- We offer 18 years of specialized canine rehabilitation expertise.
- Our team includes certified human-to-canine physical therapists.
- We utilize advanced therapies like underwater treadmill and laser treatment.
- We provide personalized home exercise programs for continued care.
- We maintain direct communication with referring veterinarians for coordinated treatment.
Services
Underwater Treadmill
The Aqua Paws Hydrotherapy unit uses water's buoyancy to provide low-impact exercise that builds muscle mass, improves balance, and enhances blood flow. This therapy aids in post-surgical recovery, arthritis management, and mobility restoration while minimizing joint stress. Our trained therapists customize speed and water levels to each dog's condition, ensuring safe and effective rehabilitation sessions.
Laser Therapy
Low-level laser therapy accelerates tissue repair and reduces inflammation by stimulating cellular energy production. We use this non-invasive treatment for arthritis, bursitis, and chronic joint pain, promoting faster healing and pain relief without medication. The therapy targets specific areas to improve circulation and reduce swelling, making it ideal for dogs with mobility-limiting conditions.
Manual Therapy
Skilled therapists use hands-on techniques to manipulate soft tissues and joints, improving range of motion and reducing stiffness. This approach addresses muscle spasms, scar tissue formation, and joint restrictions through targeted massage and mobilization. Combined with exercise programs, manual therapy enhances overall rehabilitation outcomes for dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries.
Neuromuscular Stimulation
Electrical muscle stimulation induces controlled muscle contractions to improve strength, circulation, and nerve function. We employ this therapy for dogs with muscle atrophy or neurological impairments, helping restore mobility and prevent further degeneration. The treatment parameters are carefully adjusted to each patient's tolerance and therapeutic goals.
Therapeutic Exercise
Customized exercise programs using balance discs, cavalettis, and agility equipment improve coordination, strength, and proprioception. These sessions target specific muscle groups and movement patterns to enhance recovery from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions. Therapists monitor progress and adjust difficulty levels to ensure continuous improvement in a safe environment.
People
Dimitra Kofitsas
Owner/Therapist
Dimitra Kofitsas, a University of Connecticut graduate with a Master's in Physical Therapy, transitioned from 12 years of human orthopedic therapy to canine rehabilitation in 2005. Certified through the University of Tennessee's program, she has 18 years of experience running Tails of Rye. A former professional basketball player, she combines athletic insight with veterinary physical therapy expertise to help dogs recover from injuries and chronic conditions.
Colleen Swinton
Therapist
Colleen Swinton, a Nazareth College doctorate holder in Physical Therapy, brings 10 years of human therapy experience to canine rehabilitation. Certified through the CCRT program, she transitioned to veterinary care in 2022, applying her passion for pain-free living to dogs. Raised with multiple pets in Western NY, she specializes in adapting human physical therapy techniques for canine patients while maintaining an active outdoor lifestyle with her own dogs.
Questions
What conditions benefit from canine rehabilitation?
Rehabilitation helps with arthritis, post-surgical recovery, neurological issues, tendonitis, fractures, and obesity-related mobility problems.
How do I get my dog referred for therapy?
Most clients receive referrals from their primary veterinarian, though some contact us directly for evaluation.
What should I expect during the first session?
The initial visit includes a comprehensive assessment, discussion of medical history, and development of a customized treatment plan.
How long do therapy sessions last?
Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes depending on the treatment plan and your dog's specific needs.
Do you offer home exercise programs?
Yes, we provide personalized home programs to complement in-clinic treatments and maintain progress between visits.
What areas do you serve?
We serve Rye, NH and surrounding communities including Boston, Manchester, Concord, and Portland.
