College of Animal Physiotherapy - Courses in Animal Physiotherapy

Our Mission Statement

At The College of Animal Physiotherapy, it is our mission to provide the opportunity for professionals to extend their knowledge and skills into the exciting world of Animal Physiotherapy without having to train as a Human Physiotherapist.

As the demand for Animal Physiotherapists ever increases we aim to provide Veterinary practices with access to highly trained and professional physiotherapists, so that they are able to provide the additional service of Physiotherapy to their clients.

The proven benefits of Physiotherapy, for both the companion animal and the working athlete are outstanding. We believe that the knowledge gained from our years of experience should be passed on to others so that this dynamic profession can continue to expand and more animals, owners and Veterinary surgeons can benefit from the results achievable with Animal Physiotherapy.

Life as an Animal Physiotherapist involves working under Veterinary referral to provide treatment and rehabilitation for animals. The successful Animal Physiotherapist will have the ability to:

• Communicate – with vets, owners and, most importantly, animals.
• Safely and effectively carry out appropriate treatment using physiotherapeutic equipment and specialised manual techniques.
• Design and implement individual programmes for rehabilitation.

Animal Physiotherapy is much more diverse that people imagine. There are many different backgrounds that can lead to a desire to provide physiotherapy for animals. Some of these are:

• Veterinary Nursing
• Racing – jockeys, retired jockeys, trainers and stable and kennels hands.
• Riders - from all equine disciplines, trainers, instructors, yard managers.
• Therapists in related fields – massage therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths and hydrotherapists.
• Professionals from other walks of life who have a high level of animal knowledge and experience and an unfailing passion for animals.

Animal Physiotherapy is an exciting and rewarding career. It takes confidence, initiative, determination and an open mind to make a career in Animal Physiotherapy. However the most essential requirement is that you have a natural affinity with animals. An understanding of the needs and requirements of an animal and the ability to read and interpret their feedback is an integrated skill that can only be developed through time.

This course is covered by distance learning and practical placements. To complete the course students will need to complete and pass 10 modules, including a research project, complete 4-5 weeks practical training and attend 3 therapy related lectures/C.P.D's.

Time allocation

The modules are designed to be flexible and can be studied at the students' own pace. As a guide, to complete the course in one year, approximately 15 hours private study per week would be necessary + 4-5 weeks practical training.

Practical training

The practical training is not constructed in consecutive weeks. Practical training will be given by The College of Animal Physiotherapy and other members of the International Association of Animal Therapists and will be delivered by a mixture of group practical training days and shadowing. This course is designed to be flexible so that students can continue with employment. However, days off work are usually necessary and students in full time employment should be prepared to use up annual leave.

Students from outside the UK

Students from outside the UK can complete the theory element of the course by distance learning and travel to England for intensive practical training. We also have practical training arrangements in South Africa New Zealand and Scotland. Please contact us for more information.

For further information on the training courses please use the form below to contact Katie.