About
Animal Osteopathy
Like humans, animals can develop musculoskeletal aches and pains that can interfere with their quality of life and ability to perform daily tasks.
Physically and Anatomically, animals and humans have a lot in common and tend to respond well to Osteopathic treatment.
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Animal Osteopathy is a way of assessing and treating musculoskeletal dysfunction in a holistic way.
Assessment involves observing movement, passively taking the joints through their ranges of motion and palpation of muscles and joints to feel for their condition.
Treatment can involve soft tissue release like massage, stretching, joint mobilisations, joint manipulations and cranial osteopathy. The type of treatment will vary to best suit your animal and the issues it is suffering with.
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Under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, a veterinary
referral is required to legally enable Osteopathic treatment. For me to be able to work with your animal please download a copy of my referral form (next to the relevant section on this page) and send it to your vet. On receipt of the referral, I will be in touch to arrange your appointment.
Canine Osteopathy
Why would a dog need an osteopath?
It can be harder to notice signs of discomfort in dogs than in horses, as they aren't ridden so you don't feel when they are moving more cautiously.
Signs of pain in dogs can vary but here is a list of possible pain behaviours to look out for in your dog.
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Reluctant to go for walks/ play
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Reluctant to jump in/out of car, on/off furniture
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"Bunny hopping" when running, both back legs moving at the same time
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Lameness/ Limping
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Stiffness
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Changing how they usually sit/ sleep
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Appearing uncoordinated
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Restlessness/ agitation/ pacing
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Yelping when being touched or stroked
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Ignoring calls or commands
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Appearing withdrawn, hiding away, less excitable
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Decreased appetite
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Sleeping more
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Seeking more comfort, being more ‘needy’
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Yawning
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Licking lips
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Tail tucked
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Ears back
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Aggression, snapping
