Canine In Motion is the only independent
state-of-the-art canine rehabilitation
​and fitness clinic in Montana.

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Canine In Motion is owned and operated by Physical Therapist & Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner, Stacy Upton.  

Treatment options include hydrotherapy with a specialized canine underwater treadmill, manual therapy and therapeutic exercise programs. Rehab programs available for dogs recovering from illness, injury or surgery.  Fitness programs available for canine athletes, post-rehab, weight loss, prevention and fun!

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Stacy Upton PT, CCRP

I am a longtime human physical therapist with a lifelong interest in the wellness of dogs.  For many years, while pursuing a career in human physical therapy, I was interested in how physical therapy could help dogs.  I finally had an opportunity to gain formal training in canine rehabilitation in July 2013 at the University of Tennessee’s CCRP (Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner) program.  Following the rigorous program, case studies, and an internship, I gained my CCRP certification in December 2013.  I am thankful I had the experience of working in canine rehab at Whitefish Animal Hospital for a year.  I now look forward to offering Canine In Motion to you and your four-legged companion.

Bug, the Doberman

This incredible dog is one of the greatest inspirations behind Canine in Motion. Bug’s recovery is rare and remarkable and a true testament to the spirit of our canine companions.
 
I first met Bug in August 2013 when the veterinary practice I was working in reached out to her mom to help with Bug’s rehabilitation. Just weeks before, Bug suddenly lost use of all four of her legs and her prognosis for recovery was frankly quite grim. While many pet parents would opt to say goodbye to their pets when faced with such a devastating event, Bug’s attitude was so positive and her determination so strong that her mom chose to fight with her to get back on her feet.
 
Bug had not responded to surgery to address a herniated disk in her neck and was unable to sit up, let alone stand or walk. She could lift her head and wag her tail and that was about it. We started doing simple range of motion exercises, laser therapy, and massage. She and her mom came down from Eureka twice a week to work with us, undaunted even when her progress was slow.
 
Bug’s mom dedicated herself to her recovery, working with her daily and giving her the same love and care a mother gives her newborn child. After nearly eight months of therapy including twice weekly sessions with us, daily exercise, acupuncture, and the use of an Eddie’s Wheels quad cart, Bug took her first unassisted steps in April 2014 and within a month she no longer needed her wheels. She spent the next year playing with her pack, walking completely independently and even had her own unique “trot.”  Bug was diagnosed with hemangiosarcoma in February 2015. True to form, she fought valiantly. She succumbed to the cancer three months later in May, but she walked until her very last day.
 
While Bug’s story is unique, her extraordinary spirit is a testament to what a dog can do when given the opportunity and support needed to recover.