There is currently no regulation of the Animal Physiotherapy profession in the UK. As a result there are many different registrations and qualifications ranging from weekend courses to Masters level qualifications.

To become ACPAT registered a Veterinary Physiotherapist must first complete a Bachelors degree in Human Physiotherapy. Following this they then complete a 2 year Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy.

This guarantees that all ACPAT registered Veterinary Physiotherapists are trained to the highest possible level with full public and professional liability insurance.

For more information check out:

https://acpat.org/

Under the Veterinary Surgeons Act (1966) most animals will require the completion of a consent form prior to starting Physiotherapy treatment.

Some exemptions do apply in cases where the treatment is for maintenance purposes only and there is no active treatment of an injury.

If a consent form is required this will be arranged on your behalf on confirmation of your first booking. Often vets require at least a week to complete these forms and in some instances longer, therefore it is advised to have Physiotherapy specifically advised in writing on any discharge letters post operatively etc if speed is of the essence.

The assessment usually starts with chat to find out what the problem is and establish treatment goals. This is usually followed by a visual assessment of the horses body condition and conformation, a walk/trot up on a straight line and some other movements such as small circles and backing up. I will often ask to see the horse move on a lunge line at walk, trot and canter depending on the problem. It can be helpful to have a head collar/bridle and lunge line ready for performing these activities.

Next there is a hands on assessment of muscle tension, overall body condition, joint range of movement, and balance/coordination. It can be helpful to have the horse groomed and dry place to stand for this part of the assessment.

Often I will ask to have a look at the horses saddle fit to see whether this is having an impact on their back. It can be helpful to have the saddle handy if you think this part of the assessment may be relevant.

Holistic horse and rider assessments also available. See personal Physio page for more information.

One of the most important therapies available is exercise therapy as it promotes healing, strengthens muscles, loosens joints and improves balance and coordination. During the session you will be taught what exercises to do with your horse and encouraged to do them regularly for optimum improvement. During follow up assessments these exercises will often be progressed to harder ones with the aim of ultimately getting you and your horse back to doing what you enjoy together!

Polework sessions are also available as part of the rehabilitation process or for ongoing maintenance. These are usually arranged on your premises or a yard of your choice and work well if 2-3 people share the session.