What People are Saying about Tails of Rye
Our veterinarian referred us to Dimitra Kofitsas at Tails of Rye after Ike, our 6 ½ year old Mastiff underwent TPLO surgery (bone surgery in one of his rear legs after completely tearing an anterior cruciate ligament in his knee). I believe that it is essential to begin rehabilitation as soon as one’s vet instructs that the dog is medically ready to so, in order to minimize muscle wasting and decrease the likelihood of further injury. Ike was reluctant to have his leg handled after the surgery but Dimitra was able to gain his trust to the point that he seemed to view his therapy sessions as play time. Dimitra utilizes positive methods such as lots of treats, toys, and affection in her work with the dogs. She is always in tune with the dog and will adjust her treatment depending on how the dog is responding each day. The facilities at Tails of Rye are immaculate and the environment comfortable for dog and owner. I believe that Ike benefited especially from the underwater treadmill, which was also his favorite exercise each session. It is obvious that Dimitra has a sincere love of dogs and for the work that she does with them.
K. Morrell
Hampton Falls, NH
Letter from a client who requested a contribution to Tails of Rye in lieu of a retirement gift:
I started going to Dimitra at Tails of Rye Canine Rehab after Duke, my 3 yr old Dachshund, was diagnosed with some disc trouble and a sudden onset of paralysis in his hind quarter. Duke was unable to maneuver his back legs. He had surgery and afterwards I was told by the vet that he should be walking within days or he would not walk again.Dimitra rehabbed Duke from March to May. She used a machine called an Electrical Muscle Stimulator which helped to stimulate the nerves that control his legs. She also used stretching techniques and gait training exercises to strengthen and stimulate his muscles and nerves. Dimitra’s sessions were unlike any treatment I have seen before to help rehab a pet. She utilized different stretching techniques and manually exercised his hind quarters with an entire hands-on approach. Duke is now walking again in the house. Outside, Duke uses a cart that Dimitra helped fit for his specific needs. He is so happy to be out in the yard and able to chase after the chipmunks again. I’m very happy to have met Dimitra at Tails of Rye. I think Duke would say the same!
B. Witham
Exeter, NH
I met Dimitra under a different set of circumstances. And when she mentioned her canine rehab business, my ears perked up. My newfie boy, Dexter is almost 10 years old. About a year ago he started limping on his rear left leg. It was very difficult for him to get up, let alone go up and down stairs. After full radiographs of all bones, joints and spine we realized he had a considerable amount of arthritis. So we started the underwater treadmill, plus massage. Fast forward to now and he is doing so well. He doesn't limp, he goes up and down stairs without any problem. And he has more stamina. We know his arthritis is not curable, but we are working to keep him pain free and mobile, which he has become. I can't tell you how pleased we are to have found Dimitra. She is just great with the animals and it is very evident. (Dex just loves her.) It is with great pleasure that I recommend Tails of Rye! Thank you so much Dimitra!
SC Johnson
Exeter, NH
Dimitra is an extremely experienced and caring young woman who’s obviously dedicated to helping improve the quality of life for her canine clients with rehabilitation and physical therapy. Tails of Rye, the canine rehabilitation center she opened this year in Rye, New Hampshire, is an immaculate and modern facility with state of the art equipment that I would recommend to anyone. Dimitra’s enthusiasm and vision for Tails of Rye, her professionalism, and her devotion to animals inspire a pet owner’s confidence in her skills and in Tails of Rye’s ability to provide the best protocol for rehabilitation in the area.
A. Gregg
New Durham, NH
Our dog, Sampson, an 8 year old Wheaten Terrier completely tore the CC Ligament (similar to the ACL in people) in his knee and had to have it repaired surgically. The surgery was successful; however, Sampson would not use his knee and continued to hop on his other three legs. Our orthopedic surgeon suggested getting Sampson physical therapy. Dimitra evaluated Sampson, determined that he had lost an inch from his thigh in muscle mass from lack of use, had severe weakness, decreased range of motion, and his hopping had created a muscle spasm along his spine. Sampson fell in love with Dimitra very quickly! She was able to gain his trust and therefore was able to do all kinds of therapy with him. If I hadn’t seen it myself, I would not have believed what she got him to do. He sat quietly for his electrical stimulation and massage; he swam/walked in the hydro-tank, balanced on a bosu ball, and maneuvered in and out of cones. Dimitra’s treatment plan for Sampson and her amazing rapport with dogs has resulted in the full use of his leg. She is very skilled as a PT and very professional. Her warmth and caring for both of us made his recovery a very pleasant and successful experience. We are so thankful to her for helping Sam get the use of his leg back so that he can run and play once again. Dimitra is the best!!!!!
S. Cottone
Windham, NH