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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.

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.


The College of Animal Physiotherapy is based at Tyringham Hall, NR Aylesbury, the home of Sherry Scott, President and founder of the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT). We are an accredited learning provider with the Open and Distance Learning Quality Council (ODLQC) and are part of the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA) continuing professional development scheme.

                                    

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.


Diploma in Animal Physiotherapy

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.


One Day CPD in Animal Physiotherapy

This one day course is aimed at anyone who would like to improve their understanding of Animal Physiotherapy, such as veterinary nurses, equine enthusiasts, or those with an interest in the canine athlete. The day will include a mixture of practical workshops and lectures.

Topics covered will include:

  • Small animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation
  • Large animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation
  • Physiotherapy equipment

Attendees will have practical instruction on:

  • Physical examination of a patient
  • The use of physiotherapy equipment
  • Massage techniques
  • Range of movement exercises and stretches

Attendee numbers are kept small so that a high level of personal interaction can be achieved. This course will be fun and informative and will provide an insight into the diversity of animal physiotherapy. For those who are interested in the Diploma, this CPD can usually take the place of an interview.

The next CPD will be held on Wednesday 10th September 2008.

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

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