The Rise of Veterinary Physiotherapy in Brazil: A Global Reference in Dog Care

In recent years, veterinary physiotherapy in Brazil has evolved from a little-known practice to a consolidated specialty, experiencing constant growth and innovation — especially in the treatment of dogs. With a combination of passion for animals, specialized technical training, and investment in technology, Brazil has stood out as a global reference in the field.

The journey of veterinary physiotherapy in Brazil began modestly, driven by visionary professionals who adapted human physiotherapy techniques to the animal world. Initially focused on large animals and equestrian athletes, the field quickly expanded to include dogs — particularly companion and working breeds that suffer from orthopedic, neurological, and muscular issues.

The regulation of animal physiotherapy by the CFMV (Federal Council of Veterinary Medicine) and the increased collaboration between veterinarians and physiotherapists were crucial for the recognition and strengthening of the specialty. Today, there are highly equipped clinics and rehabilitation centers in various regions of the country.

Brazil has stood out for several factors that place it in the international spotlight in veterinary physiotherapy:

Cutting-edge technology: The use of equipment such as underwater treadmills, electrotherapy, laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, and cryotherapy is increasingly accessible in Brazilian clinics.

Training and qualification: Postgraduate courses, certifications, and specialized events have raised the technical level of Brazilian professionals. Many of them give lectures at international conferences and produce benchmark research.

Pet market entrepreneurship: Brazil’s pet market is one of the largest in the world, which encourages investment in specialized clinics, pet health plans, and innovative solutions for canine rehabilitation and well-being.

Several Brazilian clinics already serve patients from other Latin American countries and even Europe. Dogs with paralysis, hip dysplasia, herniated discs, and other serious conditions have had their lives transformed by protocols developed by Brazilian professionals.

Moreover, Brazil has gained recognition in research on animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation, with articles published in international scientific journals and presentations at renowned conferences, such as the International Symposium on Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy.

If Brazil is now a benchmark in veterinary physiotherapy for dogs, it is thanks to the commitment of veterinary physiotherapists who work with excellence, empathy, and technical expertise. These professionals develop personalized protocols, educate pet guardians, establish partnerships with veterinarians, and constantly seek to improve.

More than applying techniques, the veterinary physiotherapist is a transformative agent in the lives of dogs and their families — promoting greater mobility, quality of life, and independence for their patients.

With the advancement of technology, artificial intelligence, and integrative medicine, the future of veterinary physiotherapy in Brazil is promising. Trends point to:

• Greater integration with other veterinary specialties.

• Management systems and telehealth for remote monitoring.

• Development of high-performance Brazilian-made equipment.

• Expansion of the specialty into more remote areas, democratizing access to rehabilitation.

Brazil has shown the world how it is possible to combine knowledge, innovation, and love for animals to transform veterinary physiotherapy into a field of excellence. For the veterinary physiotherapists who are already part of this movement, it’s time to celebrate and continue evolving. For those who are just starting out, it’s time to engage and seize the opportunities that only a leading country like ours can offer.