Canine Physiotherapy

At our dedicated Canine Therapy Centre at Moreton Morrell College, as well as through home visit appointments, we provide professional, evidence-based canine physiotherapy tailored to each individual dog.

Led by a qualified Veterinary Physiotherapist, our service supports dogs at every life stage – from young, active companions and sports dogs to senior dogs needing ongoing support and comfort.

What Is Canine Physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy focuses on restoring, improving and maintaining movement and physical function. It addresses conditions affecting the musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiovascular systems, helping dogs move more comfortably and confidently.

Canine physiotherapy can support a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Elbow and hip dysplasia
  • Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury or surgery
  • Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Arthritis and age-related stiffness
  • Neurological conditions

Through hands-on techniques and tailored rehabilitation, physiotherapy aims to reduce discomfort, improve mobility, prevent further injury and enhance overall quality of life.

Our Canine Physiotherapy Services

Every dog receives an individualised treatment plan, designed around their condition, lifestyle and goals. Treatments may include:

  • Hands-on massage therapy to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation and support comfort
  • Electrotherapies to aid pain relief, reduce inflammation and support tissue healing
  • Land-based rehabilitation therapy, including strengthening, balance and mobility exercises
  • Hydrotherapy, where appropriate, using our pool and/or underwater treadmill

Physiotherapy can be used alongside veterinary treatment to support post-operative recovery, injury rehabilitation, management of long-term conditions, and maintaining optimal musculoskeletal health.

Initial Assessment

Your dog’s first physiotherapy appointment lasts approximately one hour. During this session, we carry out a comprehensive assessment of:

  • Movement and gait
  • Posture and muscle condition
  • Joint range of motion
  • Overall function and comfort

We understand that physiotherapy may be new for your dog, so we take a calm, gentle and patient approach, focusing on building trust and keeping sessions as relaxed and positive as possible. If your dog is comfortable, a short introductory treatment may also be included.

Following the assessment, we’ll create a personalised treatment plan, which may involve ongoing physiotherapy and/or hydrotherapy. Recommended frequency and duration of sessions will be discussed with you during this visit.

Follow-Up Sessions

Follow-up appointments typically last around 45 minutes. Each session begins with a brief reassessment, allowing treatment to adapt as your dog progresses.

Sessions may include:

  • Manual therapies such as massage, stretching, trigger point release and joint mobilisation
  • Electrotherapy options including laser or ultrasound
  • Targeted therapeutic exercises to improve strength, balance and endurance
  • Hydrotherapy using our pool and/or underwater treadmill
  • Practical home-care advice to support your dog between sessions

Benefits of Canine Physiotherapy

  • Reduced pain and inflammation
  • Improved mobility and flexibility
  • Increased muscle strength and stamina
  • Better balance and coordination
  • Faster, more effective recovery after injury or surgery
  • Improved comfort, confidence and overall quality of life