Ruth Nicholls
SMALL ANIMAL PHYSIOTHERAPIST
Cases are only seen on veterinary referral or with prior veterinary permission.
Initial consultations take around an hour to an hour and a half, with follow-ups of
45 minutes to an hour.
Consultations begin by discussing the dog's medical history as well as other background information. This is followed by a visual examination of the dog both when moving and standing still. Next is a hands-on examination to assess the state of the muscles and joints.
The treatment given is individual to each patient, and may include any of the following: massage, stretches, passive and active range of movement exercises, pulsed electro-magnetic field therapy, phototherapy, hydrotherapy and cryotherapy.
In most cases owners will be advised as to how to continue with their pet's therapy at home, often with a combination of massage and specific exercises, such as sit-to-stand exercises or walking in figures of 8.
Depending on the condition being treated your dog may only need one treatment, but follow-ups are often necessary. In some cases dogs are seen on a monthly or 6-weekly basis to prevent the recurrence of problems and to maintain joint mobility. This is also beneficial for very active dogs such as agility dogs in order to nip any problems in the bud.
You will receive a written report at the end of each consultation, a copy of which is sent to your vet.