Physiotherapy helps in the prevention of injury and recovery from trauma or surgery, therefore improving the wellbeing and expanding the physical potential and quality of life of our small animal companions.
Small animals
What conditions can be treated?
- Spinal or pelvic pain
- Muscle strains or tears
- Tendon or ligament injuries
- Nerve injuries or neurological conditions
- Degenerative joint conditions: OA, OCD, dysplasia
- Rehabilitation following surgery
- Conservative management for those not suitable for or wanting surgery
- Compensatory problems due to underlying lameness
- Poor performance – inconsistency, popping weave poles
- Return to work or performance following injury
What does an appointment involve?
- A physiotherapy appointment begins with a full history of the animal including details on previous and presenting conditions, medications, normal exercise regime, any veterinary diagnostics etc.
- Static assessment- posture and conformation
- Movement analysis – including gait, straight lines and circles and functional movement sets.
- Palpation- head to tail including the spine, limbs and major muscle groups looking for any changes in temperature, swelling, muscle tone and/or pain reaction.
- Joint range of motion is also assessed. A neurological examination is included if applicable.
- Findings are then discussed with the owner and appropriate treatments performed.
- An individualised home exercise programme and appropriate advice is also given.
Treatments can include soft tissue massage, joint mobilisations (spinal and peripheral), electrotherapy (TENS, laser, EMS) dry needling, taping, splinting, exercise therapy (stretches and strengthening) and management advice.
What does it cost?
- From $60-$120 depending on length of session plus travel if applicable
- Sessions from 30, 45 or 60 minute duration
- Areas covered include South Canterbury, North Otago and Dunedin.
Physiotherapy is covered by many pet insurance companies – if you have pet insurance, please check your policy prior to treatment to see if physiotherapy is covered.
What about other small animals?
Whilst dogs and cats make up most of the small animals seen, physiotherapy assessment and treatment techniques can be applied or adapted to any small animal!
Please note that I am not a vet, if you require specific veterinary services please consult your regular veterinarian.
