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Physiotherapy involves analysing movement and posture, with knowledge of the neuromusculoskeletal system (nerves, joints and muscles) and pathology (underlying diagnoses/issues). It aims to identify and treat problems related these systems.
There are lots of different treatment options and approaches available.
I work with Veterinary Referral and closely with the multidisciplinary team including Vets, Hydrotherapists, Veterinary Nurses and Behaviourists.
Assessment involves talking to the owner about their dog’s problems. I watch the dog move on a lead and also as they move freely around the room or carry out tasks such as lying or sitting. Then I carry out a physical examination. Combining all of the information gathered from the assessment then guides the correct course of treatment.
Careful consideration is taken to ensure the approach taken will be one to best suit your dog, based on their presenting issues, but also bearing in mind their comfort, personality and toleration levels. Many dogs are not totally happy in a clinical environment. It is essential to try and understand any issues or anxieties they may have and work with them to build their confidence with physiotherapy and optimise rehabilitation outcomes.
How can Physiotherapy help your dog?
Both pet dogs and working/sporting dogs can suffer from acute injuries as well as conditions such as hip dysplasia or arthritis that will need longer term management. These conditions may occur in young or older dogs and some may require surgery. Dogs may also suffer from neurological issues that require neuro-rehabilitation. Physiotherapy plays and important part in the management and treatment of these conditions and, alongside veterinary input, it can help to improve of maintain a dog’s level of function.
Many dogs will benefit from management of their physical issues by combining physiotherapy and hydrotherapy treatment. I enjoy working alongside Qualified Hydrotherapists to optimise a dog’s rehabilitation with land and water-based input. I am very lucky to work closely with centres in the York and Leeds area.
Theakston Physiotherapy Services work closely with:
By working together we can provide a rehabilitation or management programme that is specifically tailored to your dog.
Photos with kind permission of Angela Robinson, Aquatread Canine Hydrotherapy
Hannah Michael - Director
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy, MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy, ACPAT (Category A)
I work in Yorkshire providing physiotherapy for dogs. I qualified with a BSc. (Hons) Physiotherapy from the University of Hertfordshire in 2000. I worked as a Chartered Human Physiotherapist going on to specialise in Paediatric Musculoskeletal and Rheumatology Physiotherapy.
In 2005 I went on to train as a Veterinary Physiotherapist at the Royal Veterinary College and gained an MSc. Veterinary Physiotherapy. I quickly realised I enjoyed working with dogs and developed my practice to specialise in canine physiotherapy. I started working at a Torrington Orthopaedics in Brighouse, as well as alongside Canine Hydrotherapy Centres in the area. I have continued to enjoy working closely with these centres, to aim to provide multi-disciplinary care for dogs in the region.
I have also been keen to increase my understanding of dog behaviour and have enjoyed working with, and learning from, Canine Behaviour specialists in the region. I have enjoyed being a guest lecturer, teaching on undergraduate courses and canine hydrotherapy courses in the past. I currently lecture on the MSc/PG Dip. Veterinary Physiotherapy at Leahurst, University of Liverpool. I love the interaction of therapeutic exercise and a dog’s motivation and skills.
Initial assessment: from £80
Follow up sessions: from £60
Joint appointments with hydrotherapy: please enquire directly for prices
Payment to be made at the appointment. Receipt provided.