Canine & Feline FAQs

 

Do I need Veterinary Consent?

Yes. Veterinary physiotherapy and hydrotherapy are carried out under veterinary referral. This ensures treatment is safe, appropriate, and tailored to your pet’s medical needs.

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What Happens During the First Appointment?

The initial session includes a full assessment of your pet’s posture, movement, and comfort, alongside a review of their clinical history. A tailored treatment plan will then be created.

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What Conditions can Physiotherapy Help with?

Physiotherapy can support a wide range of conditions including:

• Orthopaedic injuries (e.g. cruciate ligament injuries, arthritis)

• Neurological conditions (e.g. IVDD, nerve injuries)

• Post-operative recovery

• Mobility issues and age-related stiffness

• Sporting and working dog performance

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What is Hydrotherapy and How Does it Help?

Hydrotherapy uses the properties of water to support movement, reduce joint loading, and improve strength and fitness.

The underwater treadmill allows controlled, low-impact exercise which is particularly beneficial for rehabilitation and weight management.

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Is Hydrotherapy Suitable for my Pet?

Most dogs benefit from hydrotherapy, however suitability depends on their condition, behaviour, and overall health. This will always be assessed prior to starting treatment.

Hydrotherapy is not typically used for cats, but physiotherapy can still be highly beneficial.

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Is physiotherapy painful for my pet?

Physiotherapy should not be painful. Treatments are adapted to your pet’s comfort and tolerance, and sessions are delivered using a Fear Free, low-stress approach. Your pet’s wellbeing is always the priority.

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How many sessions will my pet need?

This depends on your pet’s condition, age and response to treatment. Some pets benefit from a short course of sessions, while others may require longer-term or maintenance care. This will be discussed following assessment.

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Do you treat cats differently to dogs?

Yes. Cats require a calm, gentle and flexible approach. Feline physiotherapy sessions are adapted to suit feline behaviour, comfort and tolerance, following Cat Friendly and Fear Free principles.

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What are Victory Visits?

Victory Visits are short, positive visits designed to help pets feel comfortable in the clinic without any treatment or pressure. They are ideal for nervous, anxious, young or sensitive pets, including cats.

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Do you offer home visits?

Yes, home visits are available on a case-by-case basis, particularly for pets on crate rest, those unable to travel, or pets who find clinical environments highly stressful. Home visits are full physiotherapy sessions and incur a small additional fee.

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Will you communicate with my vet?

Yes. I work collaboratively with your veterinary practice and can provide feedback or updates where appropriate, always staying within my professional scope.

 

What should I bring to an appointment?

Please bring:

• Your pet on a secure lead or in a carrier

• Any relevant medical history if available

• Favourite treats or toys to help your pet feel comfortable

 

How do I book an appointment?

You can get in touch via email, phone or the website. Once we have your pet’s details and veterinary consent, an appointment can be booked.

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Equine FAQs

 

Do I Need a Veterinary Referral?

Yes. All treatments are carried out under veterinary referral to ensure safe, appropriate, and clinically justified care.

 

What Happens During the First Appointment?

The initial session includes a comprehensive assessment of your horse, including posture, movement, palpation, and range of motion.

This allows identification of any pain, restriction, or asymmetry before creating a tailored treatment plan.

 

What Conditions can EquinePhysiotherapy Help with?

Equine physiotherapy supports a wide range of conditions including:

• Back pain and sacroiliac dysfunction

• Tendon and ligament injuries

• Osteoarthritis and joint stiffness

• Muscle tension and asymmetry

• Neurological weakness or coordination deficits

• Post-operative rehabilitation

• Reduced performance or behavioural changes

 

How Many Sessions will my Horse Need?

This varies depending on the condition and goals. Acute cases may require a short course of treatment, while rehabilitation or performance cases often benefit from structured programmes.

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What Treatments are Used?

Treatment may include:

• Manual therapies (massage, mobilisation)

• Electrotherapies (K-Laser, ultrasound, TENS, NMES, PEMFT)

• Rehabilitation and strengthening exercises

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Will I be Given Exercises to do Between Sessions?

Yes. A tailored rehabilitation programme is often provided, including in-hand, ridden, or management advice to support your horse’s progress.

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How Long does a Session Last?

Sessions typically last 60–90 minutes, allowing time for assessment, treatment, and discussion.

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Do I Need to be Present During the Appointment?

Yes, ideally the owner or rider should be present to discuss history, goals, and receive guidance on ongoing management and exercises.

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Is Physiotherapy Suitable for Competition Horses?

Yes. Physiotherapy is widely used to support performance, prevent injury, and maintain optimal movement in sport and race horses.

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Is Treatment Safe and Comfortable for my Horse?

Yes. Treatments are adapted to each horse’s temperament and comfort level, using a calm, patient approach throughout.

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Still have questions? Get in touch to discuss your pet or horse’s needs