Home > Animal Health & Nutrition > Veterinary Services > Veterinary Rehabilitation Services Market
Based on animal type, the veterinary rehabilitation services market is segmented into companion animals, production animals, and other wildlife animals. The companion animals market segment held the greatest market share, and this trend is predicted to continue during the forecast period. The factors that account for the highest share of the market are rising pet ownership rates particularly in developed regions, rising pet healthcare service costs, an increase in the prevalence of chronic orthopaedic disorders, and rapidly expanding physical rehabilitation needs.
In addition, the growing population rate of dogs in every region further propels the market’s progression. In September 2021, according to the AKC (American Kennel Club), the number of U.S. households owning dogs reached 69 million (54%) in 2021 which increased from 50% in 2018.
By indication, the veterinary rehabilitation services market is segmented into post-surgery, traumatic injuries, acute & chronic diseases, developmental abnormalities, and other indications. The post-surgery segment dominated the market and accounted for the largest market share in 2022. This substantial share is owing to the growing number of orthopaedic surgeries performed for dogs and cats, with the increasing number of veterinarians directing pets toward rehabilitation centers after surgery. Orthopaedic surgeries for companion animals are one of the common procedures that veterinarians perform to treat musculoskeletal issues. Post-operative patients are more likely to consider rehabilitation to reduce inflammation & pain and to improve the healing rate. Physical rehabilitation therapy after surgery has become more common in the veterinary field with newer advancements, which further contributes to segment share.
Based on therapy type, the veterinary rehabilitation services market is segmented into therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, hydrotherapy, hot & cold therapies, electrotherapies, acupuncture, shockwave therapy, and other therapies.
The therapeutic exercises segment dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 23.5% in 2022. Therapeutic or guided exercises are one of the most frequently used physical rehabilitation therapy for companion animals such as dogs. Veterinary therapeutic exercise programs comprise balance therapies, weight shifting, weight loss therapies, and several other exercises using grounded treadmills, cavalletti rails, balance discs, and peanut balls among others. These exercises enhance the body mobility, strength, flexibility, and endurance of animals that have chronic conditions such as arthritis, or those recovering from debilitating musculoskeletal or orthopaedic surgery.
By end user, the veterinary rehabilitation services market is segmented into veterinary rehabilitation center & hospitals, rescue & shelter homes, rehab sanctuary, and other end-users. The veterinary rehab centers and hospitals segment accounted for the largest market share of 47.5% in 2022. This is owing to a growing number of veterinary rehab hospitals and centers globally with advanced infrastructures.
These centers are very crucial for veterinary rehabilitation services as they provide professional therapies with certified veterinary rehabilitators. The growing number of veterinary rehab professionals is another factor driving the segment trends. According to the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), currently, many veterinary technicians and veterinarians are certified to rehabilitate patients in veterinary general hospitals.
North America dominated the veterinary rehabilitation services market. The high share is due to many veterinary rehabilitation facilities are present in this region, pet owners are becoming more aware of physical rehabilitation services, higher availability of services, and increasing pet ownership. Another factor encouraging market expansion is the rising number of veterinary hospitals with qualified and licenced veterinarians who also provide rehabilitation services.