Animal physical therapists provide physical therapy for animals, using massage, manipulation, and equipment to aid recovery after injury or surgery. They work with a variety of animals and may advise pet owners on recovery methods. Qualifications vary, but typically include training in veterinary medicine or human physiotherapy.
An animal physical therapist is a trained professional with a specialized education in providing physical therapy for animal patients. Typical animal physiotherapist jobs involve applying physical contact—such as massage, manipulation, and mobilization—to address an animal’s physiological ailments. He or she may also use special equipment to facilitate the healing process and advise pet owners on the best methods to ensure a speedy recovery. An animal physiotherapist works on a variety of animals, from dogs and cats to rabbits, horses and even zoo animals.
One of the main roles of any animal physiotherapist’s description is the ability to work successfully with an animal’s soft tissues after the animal has been injured or undergone surgery. Both bones and soft tissues need to be rubbed and mobilized by the skilled hands of the animal physiotherapist. This helps to lower the animal’s pain levels, promote relaxation, and encourage strength and mobility in the affected areas.
The work of the animal physiotherapist may also involve the use of specific tools and equipment to further aid the animal’s recovery. Electrical stimulation, ultrasound technology and lasers are commonly employed by those working in this field. Applying hot or cold compresses may also be needed to reduce swelling and support healing.
Animal physical therapist duties also find the therapist helping the animal exercise or helping the animal perform range-of-motion movements. These movements help to move the affected animal’s limbs again, allowing the creature to return to full use of its body. The physiotherapist ensures that the animal is exercising properly and avoiding unnecessary risks when getting back in shape.
Someone who works in this field is often called upon to give advice to pet owners. Since most animal physical therapists do not see a patient on a daily basis, the responsibility for routine physical therapy often falls to the animal’s caregivers. The therapist utilizes medical knowledge and people skills to properly convey the appropriate steps to take to ensure a healthy recovery.
Different regions have different qualifications to become an animal physiotherapist. Many in this industry are certified veterinarians with additional training in animal physical therapy. Some have a specific diploma in veterinary physiotherapy. The vast majority of professionals have training in veterinary medicine or human physiotherapy. Among other animal physiotherapist requirements are a love of animals and their welfare, a knowledge of animal physiology and medicine, and a calm, encouraging manner at the bedside.
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