BluePearl Pet Hospital
Columbia, SC
Rehabilitation

Specialty

Pet rehabilitation by BluePearl.

Restoring comfort and mobility – to help your pet live a longer and better life.

We understand that seeing your pet experience unusual symptoms or act out of the ordinary can be stressful. Fortunately, our veterinary rehabilitation team is made up of experts in helping pets with chronic or acute conditions. With proper rehabilitation, your pet can live longer and experience a better quality of life by speeding recovery and improving strength following surgery or an injury. 

Our commitment is not just to deliver life-changing medical care; it’s to enhance the well-being of your pet and be with you every step of the way.

A pet rehabilitation specialist guides a dog through exercises

Conditions we treat.

A BluePearl anesthesiology and pain management vet prepares to fix an anesthetic facemask on a yellow lab while a vet tech helps hold the dog on the exam table.

If your pet has a condition that limits their mobility, fitness or comfort, you’ll have an entire rehabilitation team at your side so you can get back to what matters most – spending precious moments together.

  • Post-surgical recovery
  • Chronic pain
  • Injuries of the muscles or nerves
  • Obesity and weight management
  • Arthritis
  • Complications from aging
  • Side effects from neurological conditions
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Spinal disc/cord degeneration
  • Tendonitis

Services we offer.

Your pet will receive unparalleled medical care during their time at the hospital (and they’ll be spoiled with love and attention, too).

Our rehabilitation team.

Experience makes all the difference. 

Our rehabilitation team is made up of veterinarians, vet technicians and assistants, and support staff with rigorous training and experience. The team works hand in hand to provide the comprehensive, compassionate care your pet needs and deserves. Because we’re a multidisciplinary hospital, the team can consult the expertise of other departments, too.

Ashley Barton

DVM, DACVAA, CVA, CCRP
Board Certified in Veterinary Anesthesia & Analgesia
Certified in Veterinary Acupuncture

Anesthesiology & Pain Management
Rehabilitation
On the job

Dr. Ashley Barton specializes in high-risk anesthesia for patients that need extra care and supervision during surgery due to conditions such as heart disease, respiratory disease, metabolic and endocrine disorders or previous trouble under anesthesia.

Her veterinary interests include loco-regional anesthesia, osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, spinal disorders, platelet-rich plasma injections, therapeutic epidurals, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), therapeutic ultrasound, low-level laser, aqua therapy and therapeutic exercises.

Education
  • Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
  • Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist, Chi Institute, Reddick, FL
  • Diplomate, American College of Veterinary Anesthesia & Analgesia
  • Residency, Veterinary Anesthesia and Analgesia, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
  • Internship, Equine Medicine & Surgery, Mid-Atlantic Equine Medical Center, Ringoes, NJ
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan
  • Bachelor of Science, Animal Science, University of Maryland, College Park
Off duty

Dr. Barton enjoys spending time outdoors with her dogs and riding and competing with her horse, Finn.

What to expect.

We want you to be prepared for your pet’s first visit to the rehabilitation team, so you have one less thing to worry about. Our entire BluePearl team will be with you every step of the way.

Before your initial visit

  • Make an appointment by calling us directly or via referral from your pet’s primary vet. 
  • We’ll request records from your primary or emergency vet before your first visit and collaborate with them to discuss your pet’s history and current condition.

During your initial visit

  • When possible, we’ll examine your pet with you by their side to make them more comfortable. 
  • You’ll have plenty of time and opportunity to ask questions as we go over your pet’s treatment plan together.
  • Before you leave, you’ll receive a detailed therapy plan, with any at-home instructions and recommended medications. We’ll schedule their next appointment and make sure you’re aware of any symptoms you should watch out for in between sessions.

After your initial visit

  • Our team will continue to partner with your primary veterinarian as part of the ongoing management of your pet’s care.
  • You know your pet better than anyone, and you play a crucial role in their treatment plan. If you have any concerns about providing care at home (such as giving medication, maintaining a specific diet or monitoring your pet’s symptoms), let us know – we’re here for you.