FAQs

A Veterinary Physiotherapist is a qualified professional specialising in the rehabilitation of animals following injury or surgery, as well as in the ongoing management of musculoskeletal conditions such as hip dysplasia and luxating patella. Physiotherapy is integral to the management of chronic, non-curable conditions like arthritis and plays a significant role in enhancing performance and preventing injuries in working and sporting animals.

Veterinary Physiotherapists are dedicated to alleviating pain, promoting tissue repair, and optimising physical performance through a variety of targeted treatments. These may include manual therapies, electrotherapies, and personalised exercise programs.

Using comprehensive musculoskeletal assessments, they collaborate with veterinarians to assist in diagnosing a wide range of conditions. They also work closely with other animal care professionals—such as hydrotherapists, farriers, saddle fitters, behaviourists, and nutritionists—to ensure a holistic and integrated approach to your animal’s care.

If your animal has sustained an injury, undergone surgery for a musculoskeletal issue, or is being managed conservatively for such a condition, Veterinary Physiotherapy is a crucial element in facilitating recovery. It supports optimal healing, restores mobility and function, and helps minimise long-term pain and discomfort.

Veterinary Physiotherapists also play a vital role in managing chronic conditions such as arthritis and can help improve performance and prevent injury in working and sporting animals.

It is highly recommended that all pet and animal owners seek at least one assessment—even in the absence of apparent issues—as early signs of musculoskeletal dysfunction are often subtle. A Veterinary Physiotherapist can identify these indicators early and initiate treatment to improve comfort and prevent further deterioration.

While Veterinary Physiotherapists, osteopaths, and chiropractors all aim to treat musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction, their methods and areas of focus can differ.

• Chiropractors primarily focus on spinal alignment and joint manipulation, often involving adjustments that produce audible clicks or pops.

• Osteopaths and Physiotherapists place greater emphasis on soft tissue function, using techniques such as massage, stretching, electrotherapies, and exercise prescription.

Individual practitioners may vary in their methods and areas of expertise. Therefore, it is essential to choose a qualified, insured, and experienced professional who is knowledgeable in treating your animal’s specific condition.

At KFVP, a standard session lasts approximately one hour.

Each session includes a thorough physical and gait assessment followed by a tailored treatment plan.

• Physical Assessment: This hands-on evaluation involves palpation of the musculoskeletal system to identify areas of tension, dysfunction, injury, or asymmetry. Joints are moved through their full range of motion to detect any restrictions or abnormalities.

• Gait Assessment: This visual, hands-off evaluation complements the physical assessment by identifying subtle signs of pain or dysfunction—especially useful for animals who may be more guarded during physical examination.

• Treatment: The treatment plan may aim to reduce pain and inflammation, promote tissue healing, relieve muscle tension, or improve joint mobility. Treatments at KFVP include massage (including myofascial release), stretching, joint mobilisation, electrotherapies, and customised remedial exercises.

KFVP is highly experienced in working with anxious or reserved animals. We prioritise a calm, patient, and consent-based approach, never forcing an animal into treatment and always allowing breaks as needed.

For animals requiring extra time to build trust, we offer shorter introductory sessions focused solely on acclimatisation—helping them gradually become comfortable with the therapist and the assessment process.

Presently KFVP is exclusively mobile, providing our services in the comfort of your own yard/home. In the exceptional case that an animal can only be treated away from home, arrangements may be made to borrow a local clinic room. This is subject to availability.

RAMP or the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners is an industry regulatory body that ensures its registrees maintain gold standards of animal musculoskeletal treatment. It does this by only allowing those with accredited qualifications to join the register, as well as requiring registrees to be fully insured and complete at least 25 hours of CPD every year. 

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KFVP is proud to be on the RAMP register.