To become an animal physical therapist, gain hands-on experience and formal training, earn a master’s degree, choose a college with specialized courses, get an internship, obtain a license, specialize in a species, create a resume, and work in a clinic before starting your own practice.
To become an animal physical therapist, you should have some hands-on experience, if possible. Being around pets and caring for them can be a good start, but you’ll need formal training. You will see firsthand how physical therapy is performed on animals working in a veterinary clinic. Ultimately, you’ll need to earn a master’s degree in animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Before becoming an animal physical therapist, you should choose a college that offers specialized courses in physical rehabilitation therapy. While classes may be specifically oriented towards human health care, some courses may also offer special training in animal physiotherapy. Before enrolling, talk to professors and students to learn more about the courses.
It can help you get an internship at your local animal shelter or sanctuary. Zoos may also offer internships for college students interested in becoming an animal physical therapist. Although an apprenticeship can pay very little, the experience should help you in your endeavor to become an animal physiotherapist.
Depending on where you reside, you will likely need to attend a program and pass an exam to receive your license to become an animal physiotherapist. Some programs or courses may involve a two- or three-year commitment, so you will need patience and determination. Regulations and requirements may vary by location; therefore, you may want to consult your local authorities for more details.
You also need to determine what species and breeds of animals you would like to treat. You may want to treat all domestic animals and pets, or you may want to specialize in one area. Some common specialties are physical therapy for dogs and physical therapy for cats.
Physical therapy for animals is not limited to treating dogs and cats. To choose your specialty, consider your area of expertise. Perhaps you have been raising birds for many years. This could make you an excellent candidate to become an animal physiotherapist specializing in avian rehabilitation.
Once you receive your degree and your license to treat animals, you will need to create a suitable resume. This should list all of your credentials and all pertinent information. Once your resume is perfected, apply to local animal clinics or organizations.
A veterinary physical therapist can work independently or within a hospital or veterinary clinic. You may have to take a job at an established clinic before eventually going out on your own. The experience you will gain working with other animal specialists can be invaluable.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
