The Effect of the Cryotherapy on the Health and Welfare of Dogs: Preliminary Study

Abstract This study is focused on determining the cryotherapeutic effects in the treatment and welfare of dogs. We characterized the basic principles of cryotherapy as well as summarized and statistically processed the current state of the application of this form of therapy in a veterinary practice. Recent scientific studies have shown that cryotherapy is mainly effective in treating skin diseases and problems with the musculoskeletal system including minor injuries caused by excessive muscle strain. It can also be used in combination with anti-inflammatory drugs to treat the respiratory system. Moreover, cryotherapy can be an effective form of treatment for ageing. Our study involved a survey evaluation given to veterinarians in Slovakia, Czechia, and Hungary with a key question regarding their experiences with cryotherapy and cryosurgery in dog therapy. Statistical results demonstrated that Slovak veterinarians do not utilize cryo-methods satisfactorily. A summarization of the reasons could start a change in this unfavourable aspect in Slovak veterinary medicine and contribute to better promotion of cryotherapy application in the therapy of animals.