If it's your calling, it won't stop calling you.
This was the case for Amy Rogato, a local doctor of physical therapy, who moved to Tampa Bay 7 years ago for a travel contract. Amy became burned out with the medical model used to treat humans and frustrated with insurance requirements and limitations that hindered how patients deserve to be treated.
This led her to explore other avenues to best utilize and capitalize on her skills. That's when she came across the Canine Rehabilitation Institute. Here, Amy learned how to apply her physical therapy skills to help dogs.
After working for a group of animal hospitals in the area for a while, parents continuously told Amy how much of a chore it was to get their dogs to the clinic. Some expressed fear of hurting their dogs while trying to get them in or out of the car and to the clinic. Helping dogs with mobility problems stay happy, healthy, and mobile from the comfort of their own homes is how In Pawsuit Rehab & Wellness was born.
Q: Amy, tell us about In Pawsuit Rehab & Wellness’ mission. Who benefits from this mission?
A: Our mission is to provide quality rehabilitation and acupuncture services to dogs in need. The pets that derive the most benefit from our services are senior dogs who struggle with mobility and dogs with neurologic issues (such as IVDD) that might be paralyzed or too weak to walk. Additionally, we assist busy pet parents who lack the schedule availability to take their pets in for rehabilitation services by meeting them in the comfort of their own homes.
Q: How did the name In Pawsuit Rehab & Wellness come about?
A: “In Pawsuit” emerged from the idea that I am constantly in pursuit of improvement: better treatment options for pets, increased convenience, higher satisfaction for pet parents regarding the care their pets receive, and of course, I had to incorporate a dog-related twist into it!
Q: What are some of the biggest challenges and successes you’ve faced along your journey?
A: The biggest challenges that we have faced so far are that people don’t know that dog rehab is a real thing! People are surprised to know that their pet can get rehab and acupuncture and it is very beneficial to improve the quality of life for all sorts of problems. Many people say that they wish they had found us sooner!
The successes that we’ve had are partnering with vet hospitals throughout the area to support and help care for their patients. We also added acupuncture services at the beginning of this year and are seeing tremendous results by pairing rehab and acupuncture together. And, of course, every dog we can assist in walking again or every senior dog we can help feel better and age more gracefully into their golden years represents a significant success.
Q: What’s something you learned that you wish you knew when you started?
A: I have learned that people just want time. They want the time to ask questions, to talk with you, to talk about their pet, to just be heard and understood, and above all else–to have more quality time with their pet. At that time, I didn't realize that I was essentially establishing this very model through home treatments. This approach provides us with the additional time and the chance to build relationships, something that people have mentioned is challenging to come by in a typical veterinary clinic.
Q: Is there anyone that helped you along the way you’d like to recognize?
A: I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t for the amazing team, which I am now part of, at the Canine Rehabilitation Institute. The knowledge and passion that I gained and regained there set me up for success in being able to help as many dogs as possible.
Q: Can you give a piece of advice for those looking to get into this industry?
A: The advice I would offer to someone interested in entering this field is to shadow someone such as myself or another rehabber in the area. While it might appear to be "petting dogs all day," there are many more mental aspects involved in effectively rehabilitating pets and helping them improve. This requires not only a skill set in rehabilitation but also a good understanding of dog behavior and training.
Q: What is your long-term vision for your company?
A: My company's long-term vision is focused on expansion. Currently, we face limitations in our ability to serve all the pets whose parents reach out to us, primarily due to the vast size of Tampa Bay and the growing demand. I also have a strong desire to enhance our provision of mobile services within the community. The service has been greatly appreciated by both dogs and people who genuinely require it.
Q: What’s next for you and your company?
A: I recently went to Australia in July to teach with the Canine Rehabilitation Institute, so I was very excited about that! We’re actively interviewing candidates to serve as an additional rehab therapist on our team. I enjoyed being able to help more dogs in the area! I have also been working on a self-paced online course that pet parents can participate in to help their senior dogs live a more active and pain-free life.
Q: How can people get more involved with In Pawsuit Rehab & Wellness and continue to follow it for more updates and information?
A: People can follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok at “inpawsuitrehab”. We also offer free reports on our website: www.inpawsuitrehab.com. Our email address is info@inpawsuitrehab.com and our business phone number is (813) 906-6125. It receives both calls and text messages.
Q: Is there anything else you'd like to add or would like the public to know?
A: I’d like people to know, if they even think their pet may benefit from rehab or acupuncture services, it’s best to get started sooner rather than later. Pets age at a rate much quicker than humans, so 6 months for us is nothing. However, when a dog starts to have problems, even 3 months without intervention or treatment negatively impacts a successful outcome. We provide free phone consultations to assist pet parents in determining whether rehabilitation and acupuncture are suitable for their pet. Alternatively, we can guide them towards the most beneficial course of action for their pet.
In Pawsuit Rehab & Wellness is more than just a story; it's a testament to the profound connection between humans and their beloved four-legged companions. Amy Rogato's journey, fueled by a desire to make a meaningful impact, led her from the world of human physical therapy to a realm where canines thrive. With a heart committed to enhancing the lives of dogs, In Pawsuit Rehab & Wellness has become a beacon of hope for senior dogs struggling with mobility and those facing neurologic challenges. Amy's dedication and innovation have given rise to a unique approach – one that brings rehabilitation and acupuncture services right to the comfort of pets' homes. As the Tampa Bay community stands united in their love for dogs, In Pawsuit Rehab & Wellness shines as a remarkable example of compassion in action. The journey continues, guided by a mission to spread awareness, instill hope, and ensure that every dog's life is filled with vitality, joy, and boundless mobility. Connect with the Tampa Dogs Community on our social channels to connect with fellow dog lovers in the Tampa Bay area, share your pup's adventures, ask for advice, discover local pet-friendly spots and products, and support local non-profits making an impact within the Tampa Dog Community! 🐶💕 #TampaDogsCommunity
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