Frequently Asked Questions
Find some of our most common questions here.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Veterinary physiotherapy focuses on helping animals recover or improve movement through non invasive techniques like massage, stretching, and electrotherapies. Its often used after injury or surgery, but it is also used for fitness and maintenance, or for conditions like osteoarthritis, aiming to enhance mobility and quality of life.
If your pet shows changes in movement, stiffness, reluctance to jump or climb, decreased activity, or signs of discomfort, physiotherapy may help. Sporting or working animals can also benefit to maintain performance and prevent injuries. Even healthy animals can benefit from preventative physiotherapy to keep them moving comfortably and stay at their best. A veterinary referral ensures physiotherapy is safe and suitable for your animal.
During the initial session, we begin with a detailed discussion of your pet’s medical history, lifestyle, and any concerns, followed by a comprehensive physical assessment, including gait analysis and palpation. From this, a personalised treatment plan is created, which may include manual therapies, laser therapy, and tailored exercises for home. In follow-up sessions, we reassess progress, adjust the treatment plan as needed, and continue to implement therapies and exercises to ensure your pet achieves the best possible mobility, comfort, and overall wellbeing.
Under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and the latest RCVS guidance, physiotherapy for diagnosed conditions, injuries, or post‑surgical care requires veterinary consent to ensure treatment is safe and coordinated with your Vet. For maintenance or conditioning work on a healthy animal, a referral isn’t always required, but your animal must still be registered with a vet, and in most cases a referral is still obtained for full veterinary oversight.
Many insurance policies cover physiotherapy, especially when referred by a vet. Coverage varies, so it’s best to check your policy in advance to see what’s included for your pet.
Initial assessments are slightly longer to allow a thorough evaluation of your pet. Follow-up sessions typically last up to 60 minutes, depending on the treatment plan and therapies used. I never rush your animal, so some sessions may run longer to ensure they are comfortable, relaxed, and fully supported throughout their treatment.
Physiotherapy supports animals with a wide range of issues, including musculoskeletal or neurological conditions, post-injury or post-surgery rehabilitation, chronic pain (like arthritis), and performance or maintenance support for sporting or working animals. Each programme is designed to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall wellbeing.
No. Physiotherapy is gentle and tailored to your animal’s comfort. Techniques and exercises are adapted to their tolerance, ensuring therapy is safe, stress-free, and effective.
Yes! While dogs and horses are most common, many species can benefit. Each treatment is personalised to the animal, with veterinary consent to ensure the best outcomes.
The number of sessions depends on your pet’s condition and goals. Some issues may improve in just a few treatments, while chronic or complex cases may require ongoing regular treatment, plus tailored home exercise programs. Most animals also benefit from regular check-ins to monitor progress and maintain mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life.