Schools for Canine Physical Therapy

Canine physical therapists help their patients gain strength and mobility.

Canine physical therapy is a new and growing field in veterinary care because of its proven benefits. With good veterinary care, dogs live longer, and as a result, they acquire health conditions that can be helped by physical therapy. Canine physical therapy involves the use of hydrotherapy, heat and cold therapy, chiropractic techniques, acupuncture, exercise, massage, therapeutic ultrasound, pulsed signal and low laser therapy. These methods are used to decrease pain, increase strength and mobility and increase circulation.

University of Tennessee Canine Physical Therapy Program

The University of Tennessee offers a canine physical therapy program that is open to veterinarians, physical therapists, veterinary technicians, physical therapy assistants and students currently enrolled in approved professional programs. The program consists of 15 courses concentrating on canine anatomy and physiology, common conditions, joint mobilization, osteoarthritis, pain management, therapeutic methods and a clinical practicum. Classes are held in Knoxville and through the Northeast outreach in Chelmsford, Massachusetts.

University of Tennessee

College of Veterinary Medicien

2407 River Dr.

Knoxville, TN 37996

800-272-2044

canineequinerehab.com/canine-rehab-pt-program.asp

Canine Rehabilitation Institute

The Canine Rehabilitation Institute in Wellington, Florida offers programs that lead to certification as a canine rehabilitation therapist (CCRT) and as a canine rehabilitation therapy assistant (CCRA). The canine rehabilitation therapist program has courses in canine anatomy and physiology, common conditions and injuries, making assessments and treatment plans and legal and ethical considerations. The program consists of three courses that must be taken in order. A final project is required, consisting of 40 hours of internship in an approved rehabilitation facility or a comprehensive take-home exam. The canine rehabilitation therapy assistant program covers the same broad subject areas, with intensive coverage of laser, e-stim, ultrasound, exercise and hydrotherapy techniques, as well as a client education component, according to the Canine Rehabilitation Institute website.

Canine Rehabilitation Institute

2701 Twin Oaks Way

Wellington, FL 33414

888-651-0760

caninerehabinstitute.com/Overview.htm.

College of Animal Physiology

The College of Animal Physiotherapy in Aylesbury in the United Kingdom offers a program that leads to a diploma in animal physiotherapy. The course includes online learning and a practical learning portion that includes group training and shadowing experienced physiotherapists. Students must complete and pass 10 modules, complete a research project, attend three therapy-related lectures and complete four to five weeks of practical training. According to the College of Animal Physiotherapy website, students outside of the U.K. can complete the distance learning components and travel to the U.K. for intensive practical training sessions.

College of Animal Physiotherapy

Tyringham Hall,

Cuddington,

Aylesbury,

Bucks,

HP 18 OAP

United Kingdom

01844 290545

animaltherapy.org

References

• University of Tennessee: Canine Physical Therapy Program
• Canine Rehab Institute: Certification Programs
• College of Animal Physiotherapy: Courses in Animal Physiotherapy
• The K9 Rehab Center: Modalities of Therapy