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1Animal Therapy Magazine | SUMMER 2015

M A G A Z I N ESUMMER 2015

AnimalTherapyNEW FREE

INSIDE:

• New Techniques

• Product Reviews

• Therapy News

and much more!

2 Animal Therapy Magazine | SUMMER 2015

Animal Therapy Magazine is one of a kind.

The publication’s sole aim is to inform professionals and owners of current and pioneering treatments and techniques.

Featuring interviews with top professionals in the field, real life case studies and up-to-date news and reviews, Animal Therapy Magazine is a must have for anyone involved with animals; whether that is in a professional capacity, pet owner or both.

• Quarterly publication

• Circulated nationwide

• Online version

• Targeted audience and distribution

• Product reviews

• Case studies

• Professional profiles

• Interviews

• Course and CPD information

• Editorials written by highly regarded industry professionals


AnimalTherapy

1

Animal Therapy Magazine | SUMMER 2015


AnimalTherapyNEW

FREE

INSIDE:• New Techniques

• Product Reviews

• Therapy Newsand much

more!


GET IN TOUCH:

Hannah Ashton – Editor

[email protected]

Georgia Keegan – [email protected]

Steven Sweet – [email protected]

www.animaltherapymedia.co.uk

While every effort has been made to ensure that information is correct at the time of going to print, Animal Therapy Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for the outcome of any action or decision based on the information contained in this publication/website. The publishers or authors do not give any warranty for the completeness or accuracy for this publication’s content, explanation or opinion. No part of this publication and/or website may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form without prior written permission of Animal Therapy Media Ltd and/or the authors of the articles within. Permission is only deemed valid if approval is in writing.

Front cover image: Chris Jones, Pet-ographywww.pet-ography.com

CONTENTS

5 The Back People – Who are They?

20 McTimoney Animal Association

22 Lungeing – In sickness and in health!

24 Chiropractic for Gundogs

28 How it all began!

30 Equine Stomach Ulcers

41 Riding Arena Surfaces

46 Rufus PRODUCT REVIEWS

32 Back on Track

38 Equi-Taping

44 Photizo

50 Bioflow

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

36 Emma Green

M A G A Z I N EAnimalTherapy

Welcome! Animal Therapy Magazine has been created by passionate professionals working in the field of animal therapy.

New products and techniques are being discovered every day and as such this publication is the ideal place for product launches, reviews, success stories, case studies, testimonials and much more.

Anyone working within the industry will know that therapists learn something new with every case. For this reason we encourage professionals from every field to get in touch to share their experiences, discuss techniques and promote products they believe in.

This publication will provide a platform to educate owners and professionals, enabling them to achieve the best possible results for their animals.

So, if you have a story to tell, get in touch......

ISSUE 1 - SUMMER 2015Issued Quarterly


Veterinary Physiotherapist covering Sussex, Surrey and parts of Hampshire.

Physiotherapy can assist with:

• Rehabilitation Post Muscular and Skeletal Injuries

• Rehabilitation Post Surgery

• Arthritis and Pain Management

• Tendon and Ligament Injuries

• Muscle Wastage and more

Species include Dogs, Cats, Horses and Livestock.Fully Qualified, Insured and a Member of ASSVAP.

Please contact Kerrie for further details

07949 998708kerrie@houndstohorsesphysio.co.ukwww.houndstohorsesphysio.co.uk

Kerrie Bainbridge PG Dip A Phys, RVN, Cert Ed, MASSVAP

Sally Evans Human and Equine Sports Massage TherapistFully qualified and insuredFriendly and professional service

The main benefits of massage are:• Increased performance and flexibility• Enhances muscles tone• Relieves muscle spasm and tension• Improves circulation• Prevents injury• Improved recovery time• Relieves muscle soreness• Enhances proprioception• Promotes general well being• Can also help with behavioural issues when ridden

Massage also beneficial for• Horses suffering respiratory problems• Arthritis• Laminitis• Joint conditions

07535 [email protected]

www.humanandequinemassage.weebly.comAreas covered - Worcester, Gloucestershire, Herefordshire

and once a month the North West and Merseyside.

Sarah Hamilton Dip A Phys, MIAAT

Hooves and Hounds Physiotherapy offers a bespoke and specialist service in equine and canine physiotherapy, massage and rehabilitation with the goal of supporting every animal to be the best they can be whether they be a family pet or top athlete.

Treatments will include a variety of manual therapies, joint mobilisation techniques, soft tissue massage, trigger point therapy, passive stretches and range of movement exercises.

Electrotherapy options include the use of therapeutic ultrasound, electrostimulation, phototherapy and PEMF therapy and will be used where necessary.

Working under veterinary referral I assist with the management and treatment of joint diseases such as osteoarthritis, soft tissue injuries, muscle pain and spasms, neurological conditions, non union fractures, post operative rehabilitation and performance problems in working and athletic animals.

Areas covered include the Midlands and surrounding areas.

Hooves and Hounds PhysiotherapyTel: 07969 635754

[email protected]

We are working for excellence in animal therapy through our registered animal therapists

IAAT exists to provide vets, owners and insurance companies with a register of trained professionals in a number of disciplines: Physiotherapy Osteopathy Animal Manipulation Massage Hydrotherapy

IAAT is run by its members, for its members and is committed to providing a professional and proactive association. It is a high profile organisation that boasts a large number of international members.

To register as a therapist, or for more information, please contact www.iaat.org.uk

(email address to follow) 01844 290545


T he Back People

How often do we hear the words ‘I’ll get the back person out – but who and what is the back person?

Although the back is a vital area to treat, therapists can actually do so much more.

A thorough treatment of your animal will go from head to tail as like us, when one bit hurts, we use another part in excess resulting in compensatory issues, and this doesn’t just involve adjoining structures. A hind limb injury can also affect the poll !!!

We have spoken to professionals from many qualifications and we hope this article will give you a better idea of what each therapy is all about!

First things first, therapies work in conjunction with veterinary law and veterinary consent is essential prior to any treatment.

McTimoney Animal Association

6th July 2015

What is McTimoneyTreatment?

McTimoney Animal Practitioners use gentle light chiropractic techniques to rebalance the

skeletal system and restore normal functionality to the animal receiving treatment. Where

there are no underlying pathologies, treatment will enable the animal to regain maximal

flexibility, even movement and symmetrical loading on all limbs. Where underlying

pathologies affect the mobility of the animal, the McTimoney treatment will reduce

discomfort and improve movement in areas where there are compensatory loading

patterns. Due to the gentle application of the adjustments made, animals readily accept

the treatment and may yawn, doze and exhibit other clear signs of relaxation throughout

treatment. McTimoney treatment can be given as a stand-alone treatment or used

alongside other therapies, and all practitioners are trained to the highest level at the

McTimoney College.

Case Study: McDuff the cocker spaniel.

Owner Catherine describes his symptoms, ‘A few days after having his haircut, he started

shaking and shivering. We thought this was due to the cold weather. He then was reluctant

to walk any great distance and his tail was between his legs. This was a symptom

displayed when he had a bad bout of pancreatitis although he was not constipated.’

“We took him to the vet who thoroughly examined him and took blood tests. He had been

sliding on the wooden flooring and toppled when turning corners suddenly. He was also

dragging his right back leg. He was given an injection and anti inflammatories. We

returned to the vet the following week and his blood results were clear. His tail was, at

times, rigid then gave an occasional twitch. He had another injection and a further

prescription of anti inflammatories. He was on bed rest with short trips to the garden for

the toilet. After a further visit to the vet, unfortunately not the one he had previously

seen, he was still uncomfortable and could only walk short distances despite being

prescribed more pills. This was very distressing as we then had a dog who could only lie in

his bed for most of the day, had no energy and was reluctant to go out. He had become

very aggressive if there was another dog in the vicinity which was most upsetting and

totally out of character. We knew this could not continue!’

Catherine took McDuff to see a McTimoney Animal Practitioner, who identified a key area

in the mid spine where there was a distinct area of skeletal imbalance and associated soft

With thanks to:


ESTABLISHED OVER 35 year’s ago and pioneered by Sherry Scott MBE and Mary Bromiley MBE, Animal

Physiotherapy soon became a recognised and vital profession within the companion, competitive and working animal industries.

Animal Physiotherapy is used to rehabilitate and maintain health, mobility, function and performance in all animals whether they are your top competitor or your best friend. A full treatment will assess gait, mobility, muscle balance, muscle, tendon and ligament elasticity and strength, joint and limb flexibility, range of movement and over all suppleness.

Physiotherapy can treat a broad spectrum of conditions whether it is performance, medical or surgically related, with goals being;

• to reduce pain

• to regain full joint range of movement

• to restore and enhance strength

• to regain full functionality

• to form a relevant exercise plan to avoid re-injury

Animal physiotherapists are trained in manual techniques, such as acupressure, myofascial release, trigger point release, massage, soft tissue work and joint mobilisation. They also frequently use electrotherapies such as phototherapy, ultrasound, electro stimulation and pulsed electromagnetic therapy. Therapists are presented with a range of

conditions through their working day ranging from general check overs for peace of mind to post-surgical rehabilitation, fracture repair, arthritis, tendon and ligament injuries, lameness and gait abnormalities, loss of muscle, behavioural issues, degenerating diseases and much more. The list is endless! There have also been many fantastic results in the treatment of

none healing soft tissue injuries and proud flesh.

Post treatment and when appropriate, a full exercise rehabilitation programme can be written specifically for your animals condition to ensure the body can repair correctly and reduce the incidence of re-injury.

Like all therapies, animal physiotherapists work under veterinary law and it is essential that contact is made with the treating vet, whether it be a courtesy call or to discuss ongoing issues, findings and next stages. There are times when physiotherapy would not be the right mode of treatment at a specific time and this is why a full understanding of the animals past and present condition is essential. Should your animal be suffering with a temperature, infection,

vomiting or diarrhoea, using any form of treatment that boosts circulation would make the animal feel much worse and can over load the system with the toxins the body is trying to expel. The same theory applies to any animal that has been diagnosed with any form of cancer or leukaemia.

Veterinary physiotherapy is becoming a very popular profession enabling those with a passion and talent

for working with animals fulfil their career dreams. Many

universities and colleges offer courses ranging from MSc, Degree, post graduate and diploma level qualifications yet the format can vary

from distance learning to residential, so when deciding

which course to take, the final decision may be down to the

learning method that suits you best at your time of life.

Typically students begin their training with a Veterinary, Equine or human background, however there are many talented professionals who have an equine or canine training, behavioural or competing background and have become very popular with their clients due to their in depth understanding and knowledge of the species, so don’t be afraid to pick up the phone and ask the questions.

To find a fully trained and insured physiotherapist, or for any questions about training, the following companies will be able to help you.www.animaltherapy.org www.acpat.org www.navp.co.uk www.irvap.org.ukwww.justodevelopment.com

Veterinary/Animal Physiotherapy

THE BACK PEOPLE

by Hannah Ashton BSc, DipAPhys, MIAAT


Animal physiotherapists are trained in manual techniques, such as acupressure, myofascial release,

trigger point release, massage, soft tissue work and joint mobilisation. They also frequently use electrotherapies such as phototherapy, ultrasound, electro stimulation

and pulsed electromagnetic therapy.


by Nikki Alexander MSc, BSc (Hons) and MMAA, MIAAT, MASSVAP

MANIPULATION OF THE spine is one of the oldest therapies in the world and dates back to 2,700 BC.

The history of Chiropractic started in Davenport USA in 1895 with Daniel David Palmer when he was visited by a Mr Lillard. Mr Lillard explained that 17 years previously a he had been stooping, when he felt something give in his back and almost immediately he lost his hearing. He was treated by Daniel David Palmer, who manipulated a misplaced vertebra and his hearing returned.

A man called John McTimoney developed the McTimoney Animal Manipulation technique in the 20th century, by utilising techniques he developed in his human Chiropractic treatment. The term “Chiropractic” is limited to the treatment of humans, therefore the term “Manipulation” is used with animals.

In 1942, as a result of a bad fall from a ladder in 1939, McTimoney began losing the use of his arms and had problems walking. At that time, conventional medicine could offer him only a complex operation on his back. At the suggestion of his wife he went to see a Chiropractor, as she had been treated by him in the past with success. The Chiropractor had been trained in the United States by Daniel David Palmer. He manipulated the bones in McTimoney’s neck, realigning the vertebrae and removing pressure from the local nerves controlling movement in his limbs. This caused an immediate improvement, allowing McTimoney to walk the 5 miles home. Continued treatment over 3 years resolved the problems completely.

Over the course of his treatment McTimoney became fascinated by the

technique and determined to learn it for himself. After he qualified, he developed his own technique for humans based on a “toggle-torque-recoil” adjustment which is an extremely light and fast movement.

However, following success treating animals, many of which were facing an uncertain future due to problems that could not be cured by conventional veterinary medicine, he developed a specific technique for animals derived from his human Chiropractic methods. Following his death the McTimoney College worked closely with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons to develop an Animal Manipulation course which was launched in 1998. Holistic in approach, the technique seeks to restore balance in the body where disease has occurred due to a disturbance or interference. It is a relatively gentle technique and works with the body to allow it to heal itself naturally. It utilises the concept of Innate Intelligence, a term used to describe the in-born (innate) healing ability of the body, once the interference has been removed.

The manipulations are done only with the Therapists hands and are based on speed rather than force to effect the change.

The technique requires the consent of a qualified vet, as they need to be aware

that the animal is being examined and will possibly receive treatment. They should advise the owner and if required, the McTimoney Therapist, if they had any concerns about the animal being treated.

The first part of the examination consists of palpation where the animals’ skeletal structure is assessed for misalignments.

The bones form the support structure for the body. The nervous system starts with the brain and the spinal cord passes down through the centre of the spinal column, from which it derives support and protection. Many nerves pass out from the spinal cord through gaps between the vertebrae and provide a communication network all over the body. These nerves relay signals to and from the brain to enable the body to work in the correct manner.

Misalignments can occur due to a major trauma, a slip or fall where an external force causes bones to be moved slightly out of their normal position, such as McTimoney’s fall from the ladder, or when the body produces a local muscle spasm to prevent further damage, which then prevents the normal joint motion.

Alternatively prolonged uneven use of certain parts of the body can result in asymmetrical development of ligaments and muscles, which gradually pull against the skeletal attachments and move things away from the correct position. For example compensation for a poorly fitting saddle or soreness elsewhere in the body.

The nerves may be affected directly by a misaligned bone, where it is pressing on the nerve; or the misalignment may

Chiropractic

THE BACK PEOPLE


cause a muscular spasm, which then causes a localised inflammation and reaction that elicits a pain response. Where nerve function is interrupted it becomes impaired. Normal nerve impulses may not be received properly or are replaced with others, which tell the brain there is a breakdown of nerve communication in that area.

Once the misalignments have been found, they are treated with precise, rapid, light hand adjustments which input an impulse into the body, helping it to release the muscular spasms and allow the natural healing to start.

Realignment removes the disturbance from the affected nerves. This allows them to heal and resume the normal communication path. In addition, concurrent inflammatory effects gradually subside.

The amount of treatment required to resolve the problem will vary depending on the problem itself. In general where a misalignment has occurred recently and there has been little compensatory activity, the system will return to normal quickly. This may require only one treatment with only a short period of recuperation. However, if there is a long standing condition due to poor posture or uneven muscle or ligament use, then

the system is likely to require more treatments. In this case the body will not be able simply to return to the ideal position immediately, due to the asymmetrical development. Therefore small gradual adjustments may be required over a number of visits.

When the body is back in its natural alignment, it can be beneficial to have a regular maintenance treatment to prevent a condition reoccurring or regressing.

Once the manipulation has been performed, improvements in the body and healing will start. However, depending on the severity of the problem, associated inflammation and compensatory actions, the positive improvement may take a few days to become apparent to the onlooker.

This healing is a natural process and will vary from animal to animal. It

will be affected by its age, condition and natural healing capability. Therefore it is important that the animal is given appropriate care and treatment following a manipulation, in order that the healing process can occur as quickly and as thoroughly as possible. It is possible that the animal may be more tired or thirsty directly after a treatment. In some cases they may be a little stiff, especially if areas are released after a prolonged period of misalignment. Muscle groups or ligaments that have been in spasm may also need time to strengthen properly once the interference is removed. Inflammation will take time to subside and for the area to return to normal.

It will be important that the animal does not over exert itself for few days but that it is also given some gentle exercise and a light diet in order that it can cleanse released toxins from its system. Plenty of water should be provided at all times.

Once the initial period has passed and the system has settled, the animal may start to resume its normal exercise routine, gradually building up to the original work level. Care should be taken to rebuild strength in the affected area, especially in cases of a prolonged problem where compensatory musculoskeletal changes have developed.

Holistic in approach, the technique seeks to restore balance in the body where disease has occurred

due to a disturbance or interference.

Tel: 07788 [email protected]


Canine Hydrotherapy

HYDROTHERAPY IS derived from the greek word meaning ‘water healing’. Whist it is still a relatively

young industry, it is a rapidly growing one, and one that is exciting to be part of.

Hydrotherapy has become a recognised modality for rehabilitation

and the treatment of many musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. It also plays a big part in general fitness and weight loss and is now regularly recommended by veterinary surgeons and other professional bodies.

Hydrotherapists are usually one of a team of professionals/

paraprofessionals involved in the care of the patient and they are used to working as part of this multi-disciplinary team.

Swimming is a controlled, non-weight bearing, zero impact exercise where the water is sanitised to regulated standards and the temperature is maintained between 28 – 32 degrees

THE BACK PEOPLE

by Sara Marlow RVN PTLLS CTLLS, Sue Hawkins Cert Ed,

Rebecca Winter RVN Dip A Phys MBVNA MIAAT, Bex Atherton BSc (Hons), AdvCertVPhys, RVN


Celsius. The encompassing warmth of the water will relax muscles by initiating an expansion of surface blood vessels and increasing the skin temperature which can bring about a decrease in pain, stiffness and muscle spasm and an increase in range of movement.

In most instances a hydrotherapist will be in the water with the dog in a hydrotherapy pool and this will often be the case during a water treadmill session as well. For safety the dog will be fitted with buoyancy jackets and/or a suitable harness in both a pool and a water treadmill. A collar and pole is not considered a safe and effective method of controlling a dog and as such the CHA have banned their members from using this method.

The aquatic treadmill is surrounded by glass sides to enable the hydrotherapist to monitor the patient’s joint range of movement, weight bearing and stride length. It has a variable speed enabling the correct gait pattern for the patient.

Walking on the treadmill is a closed chain exercise; the foot is fixed against a form of resistance. This method of walking with the support of the water targeting the relevant joints is an ideal way of re-educating the gait post surgery or injury. The treadmill

is also extremely useful for making the transition from water to dry land by gradually increasing the load on the affected joint.

There are a numerous conditions that benefit from hydrotherapy including but not limited to the following:

• Cruciate ligament disease and rupture

• Hip dysplasia

• Elbow dysplasia

• Arthritis

• Neurological disease

• Spinal injuries

• Patella luxation

Many owners report significant improvements in their pets mental wellbeing after attending hydrotherapy, any exercise will encourage the release of adrenaline (a natural pain killer) and endorphins, therefore adding to the ‘feel good factor’. This improvement in mental wellbeing can be just as important as the physical improvements bought about by hydrotherapy, especially in older dogs.

The hydrotherapist will shower the dog pre and post session and conduct

Many owners report significant improvements in their pets mental wellbeing

after attending hydrotherapy,


THE BACK PEOPLE

Some facts about the CHA

All CHA members hold a nationally recognised qualification in Small Animal Hydrotherapy at a minimum of Level 3 and are regularly audited ensuring quality and consistency.

All members adhere to a strict set of Quality Standards and Code of Practice.

Members also work by veterinary referral only, ensuring the patient is fit to undertake hydrotherapy treatment and that the referring vet is aware of any treatment the dog is undergoing

Hydrotherapists regularly feedback to the treating veterinary surgeon.

The CHA require members to complete a minimum of 20 hours a year CPD (Continued Professional Development), ensuring members keep up to date with new methods within this rapidly expanding and exciting industry.

Recently the CHA have launched a public Facebook page to keep the public, referring veterinary surgeons and other professionals up to date with what is happening within the CHA.

a health check. An individual program will be created for each dog, depending on the condition they have, age, breed etc, this program will be continually adjusted as the dog progresses and a feedback report sent to the vet.

What to ask and to look for when choosing your Hydrotherapy Centre

When choosing a hydrotherapy centre for your dog it is important to know what to look for, as one can much look like another on the outside. What should you be looking for to ensure your companion will receive the best care and attention?

It should also be ensured that the Hydrotherapy Centre or individual Hydrotherapist is a member of a minimum of one regulatory body:

CHA (Canine Hydrotherapy Association)

NARCH (National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists)

The points below may act as some guidance;

Prior to the hydrotherapy session

• DO ensure you have received information regarding hydrotherapy

• DO ensure you have any concerns alleviated regarding the hydrotherapy treatment

• DO ensure a Veterinary Referral is obtained by the Hydrotherapist prior to any treatment

• DO ensure the Hydrotherapist conducting the session has achieved the relevant qualifications in hydrotherapy – a minimum of a Level 3 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals.

• DO ensure it is not permitted for you to accompany your dog into the pool.

• DO ensure your dog is accompanied by a qualified Hydrotherapist at all times

• DO ensure great care is taken should your dog retrieve toys off the water line. This could lead to secondary drowning and is not advised. It is however acceptable for your dog to chase a toy to encourage and motivate.

• DO ensure the centre your dog will be attending does not allow more than one dog in the pool at any one time. This could have a negative effect on your dogs condition as stress hormones may be released into your dogs body potentially blocking vital pain pathways and responses to pain therefore risking a deterioration in your dog’s condition.

• DO ensure the centre’s water quality is monitored – should be tested 3 times daily to ensure effective and accurate sanitisation with correct PH and alkalinity levels. All results should be recorded and available to be seen upon request.

The initial consultation

Full assessment will be performed to include history taking, measurements of muscle mass, a full health check and the emergency procedure explained.

Post session

• The dog should receive a shower and an appropriate method of drying.

• Feedback should be given on the dog’s performance throughout the session plus any post swim care instructions given.


IF WE ARE TO BELIEVE THE original stories regarding the origins of osteopathy, then “animal osteopathy” started in

North America and was an integral part of the traditional medical/health care that the native nations used to maintain themselves and their animals.

Throughout osteopathy’s history there are tales of individuals treating animals, usually at the request of an owner who has benefitted from the same.

It isn’t until we get into the 20th Century that some of these individuals began to really integrate animal work into their clinical practise. Arthur Smith has been documented building up a very successful referral clinic with his vet taking in horses from all over the UK. He is certainly one of the fathers of modern equine osteopathy.

Later on, individuals such as Anthony Pusey built on this and set up an even greater referral clinic with specialist orthopaedic veterinary surgeon Dr Chris Colles. Between them they saw thousands of horses and also managed to produce several papers and texts on the subject of treating back pain in the horse. Sadly Anthony died young, although the clinic has continued to this day, more about that later.

There have been many others who have entered this branch of osteopathic medicine, however not all have fully understood the legal and professional requirements when faced with treating animals. As the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 stands, we as manual therapists can only treat an animal that is referred to us by that

animals vet. Referral does not mean an owner saying it is OK!

Within the osteopathic profession a core group of osteopaths set about creating a professional postgraduate training scheme for qualified osteopaths to embark safely on animal work. A society was formed with the support of the statutory governing body, the General Osteopathic Council (GOsC), and a part time Masters course was validated to allow osteopaths to really advance their

skills. There are many other CPD seminars provided throughout the year by members further supporting the professional growth of the profession.

This is all great, but what do osteopaths really do, and what might an owner need to see an osteopath for?

Osteopathy looks at assisting the body to maintain, or return to, a normal functioning unit. Every part of a living body is an integral piece of the whole. If an animal manages to strain a joint, or muscle it will alter how the rest of

Animal Osteopathy

by Tony Nevin BSc (Hons) Ost, DO



the body copes with this. With horses in particular, they are traditionally a prey species, and so will compensate very quickly to be able to still run away from any potential threat.

Dogs will often hide a problem so as not to appear weak. Once you get into the realms of wildlife and exotics it becomes even more muddled.

When we look at a patient, regardless of species, we are most interested in how it is physically coping. Can it move about freely, and can it comfortably achieve all that it needs to in order to survive and thrive?

In the past many osteopaths got hung up on achieving complete symmetry of the patient at rest. However no patient will ever be completely symmetrical, just look at a skeleton of any animal or person. What we as osteopaths are really focussing on is freedom of movement within safe boundaries. The ability to move and perform all functions symptom free is the true goal.

With the aid of many modern diagnostic methods, including radiography, CT scans, MRI images, and clinical thermography we are able to better assess a patent’s true potential, as well as create realistic expectations from any treatment plans offered.

The sorts of things osteopaths regularly treat, and help with are very similar to the types of problems we humans suffer from. Joint strains, over use of certain areas of the body, trauma based injuries, as well as age related wear and tear problems.

In most situations we are working with vets on cases that involve no known disease or structural damage to the body. When an animal sustains a minor injury the nervous system acts in a way to protect the individual from further harm, and then re allocates resources within to try to mend or fix any damaged tissues, whilst still allowing that individual to function adequately. In many cases this mechanism doesn’t revert back to normal once the problem has resolved. This is where the osteopath can really help.

A classic comment we hear when we take a history from an owner is that their animal’s performance has gradually decreased. This is particularly so with horses. These magnificent creatures will try every trick they know to allow them to carry on. Often to their own detriment, as their owners are then unaware that there is a problem and often get upset when this is pointed out to them. But, as with most things in life, hindsight is a wonderful gift. The fact that we get to have these conversations with the

owners is testament to the care of their horses.

For me I have a passion for looking at the horse with these long standing movement problems. Very often they will show little or no pain when we examine them. Instead the soft tissues and joints have often become quite stiff, and the horse often lacks “drive.” There is usually a reluctance to engage behind (usually because they find it physically too demanding), and turning in tight circles is out of the


THE BACK PEOPLE


question. Most don’t like contact in the mouth, and many feel uncomfortable to ride. Saddlers often take a lot of flak with these cases due to the altered way the horse moves, making a decent saddle fit nigh on impossible.

Due to the nature of these cases we generally treat them after the vet has administered sedation, otherwise they find it impossible to relax enough to allow any meaningful changes to take place. Once sedated these patients will actively work with, and guide the osteopath through each treatment session, allowing the layers of compensatory patterns to be unravelled, eventually returning them back to a normal equine way of moving.

The depth and breadth of osteopathic treatment is far too great to be covered in a single article, therefore Tony will be having a regular column in the publication. Next time he will talk more about integrating movement, and some of the more unusual cases that osteopaths have seen.

Tony graduated from the European School of Osteopathy in 1988, and took a later degree from the British College of Osteopathic Medicine, graduating in 2010.

Within a year of initial graduation he was approached to treat some horses. Liaising with the vet he found that there was a much greater willingness from the vet to work with him compared to the state of play with doctors on the human side back in the late 1980s.

Soon Tony expanded his animal work to cover small animal treatment, setting up the first referral clinic within a vet’s practice in Gloucestershire, as well as attaching himself to a wildlife hospital, and then several zoos and safari parks where he expanded

the boundaries of osteopathic medicine to include species hitherto thought to be untreatable with manual medicine.

He helped found the Society of Osteopaths in Animal Practice, and was chair for 6 years steering it into the respected organisation that it now is.

Along the way he has lectured internationally, is clinical director on the only established MSc in Animal Osteopathy, has had scientific papers published, and is currently working on a comprehensive textbook on animal and bird osteopathy. To date his list of patient species exceeds 300 different kinds, many of these he has pioneered the successful treatment of.

Osteopathy looks at assisting the body to

maintain, or return to, a normal functioning unit.



THE BACK PEOPLE

Canine Massage Therapy

by Catherine Nicoll FSMT Sports Massage, Level 4 TCMD

MASSAGE FOR HUMANS has been documented since 2000BC, when it was mentioned in ancient

medical manuscripts from China, Persia and Egypt.

In the early nineteenth century, Per Henrik Ling from Sweden, was responsible for developing the soft tissue techniques and names of movements that are considered the foundation of all massage modalities, such as effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration. It was soon realised that massage could help to resolve injuries, relieve pain, reduce stress and enable a deep relaxation.

Today, massage is a highly respected form of holisic therapy and practiced across the world. Not only has it developed in the human world, it has also been realised as a valuable profession within the animal world.

Various massage and stretching techniques can be applied, enabling the animal to not only perform to their full potential, but for those who may be having a quieter life, it can keep them supple, comfortable and using themselves correctly in their golden years.

Massage is proven to:

• Increase and improve circulation

• Enhance muscle tone

• Relax muscle spasm

• Prevent and relieve adhesions

• Increase the range of movement

Alongside the use of massage for

competition and general activity, it is also a valuable treatment should the animal be undergoing restricted exercise such as box rest in the case of horses or cage rest in the case of dogs.

Canine Massage has many benefits. It can be used to rehabilitate your dog from injury, relieve discomfort, stiffness, lameness and help restore mobility. The aim is to promote the relaxation of tight, inflexible muscles, to improve their elasticity and range of movement (ROM). In addition massage can help dogs to cope with orthopaedic issues, such as arthritis, hip dysplasia and spondylosis.

Canine Massage is a clinical therapy used to support and resolve issues in your dog’s muscular system that may be having a detrimental effect on their mobility, mood and quality of life. The muscular system can house a vast range of painful issues and injuries and as dogs are not able to tell us they are in pain, these issues can go overlooked.

Massage is a unique, strong, manipulative treatment for dogs and works by releasing tight, sore muscles, removing debilitating trigger points (or knots) that can cause referred pain and helps to break down restrictive scar tissue.

Canine massage is particularly effective not just for sustained injuries but also for ongoing orthopaedic and chronic issues. Every time pain or injury occurs, compensatory behaviours follow. Over time, these compensatory issues have a knock on effect on demeanour, posture, gait and activities

such as going up stairs, jumping into cars and general play. For this reason, a good therapist will treat the whole body, from head to tail interpreting and understanding each voluntary or involuntary reaction!

Massage can produce visibly significant results in 1 to 3 sessions.

Before any treatment begins, by law, the therapist must seek veterinary referral. Massage should only be carried out by a skilled, trained and insured professional who is able to locate and treat which muscle groups are responsible for the pain. It is also the responsibility of the therapist to refer findings back to the treating veterinary surgeon, should there be no improvement or further issues are discovered during treatment that require a diagnosis.

I am a member of The Canine Massage Guild. To find your nearest therapist visit www.k9-MassageGuild.co.uk

About the authorCatherine Nicoll has a Level 4 Therapeutic Canine Massage Diploma and a FSMT Certificate of Sports Massage. She is passionate about dogs with two rescue dogs of her own who are both very active with lots of walks, and also take part in a sport called Canicross - cross-country running with your dog. Catherine raises money for local dog charities by running a local pub quiz and she also treats rescue Greyhounds waiting for their forever home.


Canine massage is particularly effective not just for sustained injuries but also for

ongoing orthopaedic and chronic issues.


ALTHOUGH IT IS NOT clear when massage was first transferred to horses, there are plenty of references

regarding the ‘strapping’ of carriage and draft horses, an early form of tapotement.

Equine sports massage techniques became further integrated when American, Jack Meagher was employed to treat horses competing for the United States Equestrian Team at the 1976 Montreal Olympics and later in England by Mary Bromiley with the English Olympic Equestrian teams.

Equine Sports Massage is the assessment and manipulation of the soft tissues and joints of the equine body using established swedish massage techniques.

Like human and canine massage, it may have many benefits including:

• Assisting in promoting both vascular and lymphatic circulation

• Improving joint mobility

• Assisting flexibility and agility

• Reducing the formation of scar tissue

• Stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system

VETERINARY PERMISSIONEquine Sports Massage has become an established treatment option complementing veterinary care for horses. It is the Law in the UK that an equine therapist must first seek veterinary permission before treating your horse, even if it is just for a routine check up.

It has also become a popular therapy for general health care and regular MOT for horses at all levels of competition as well as ‘happy hackers’. It is important to have a para professional check your equine companion over at least a couple of times a year. A trained therapist can detect subtle changes in skin temperature, muscle tone and texture and offer early resolution to minor injuries, or in cases of underlying conditions, referral back to the treating veterinary surgeon can result in early detection and prompt treatment.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM YOUR THERAPIST?Anyone treating your horse should hold a recognised qualification, full insurance and be a member of a professional body. It is the owners’ responsibility to contact their vet prior to treatment and in some cases, following treatment, findings should be reported back to the treating vet in a report by the therapist.

There will be slight variations in how each therapist works, however, you should expect them to obtain a history, request to see your horse move, treat in an appropriate manor and provide you with advice and exercises to carry out in between treatments.

WHERE CAN YOU TRAIN TO BECOME AN EQUINE SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPIST?Animal Physical Therapy is becoming one of the fastest growing professions in the country. If you are an animal lover, then what is better than being able to work with animals to regain

their healthy function and get paid for it! There are a plethora of courses on offer and it can be quite confusing for the budding equine therapy student to know what type of course to enrol upon.

So here are a few questions you should ask the training provider:

• Is the course accredited with an external examining body?

• Is it internally and externally verified by an independent professional body ensuring standardisation? Is it a certificate of attendance, an award or a Diploma?

• What level on the national Qualifications and Credit Framework QCF is it at? (From 2019 it will likely need to be a minimum of a Level 3 Diploma)

• Is the person providing the training an experienced, qualified further education teacher?

• How many contact hours training?

• How much home study and practical case studies are involved? Are there final practical and theory exams/assessments, or a DVD to be sent in? (Would you trust a veterinarian who had completed his training online and just sent in a DVD for his final assessment?)

• Are learners able to gain membership of a professional association with a strict code of conduct and ethics?

• Can students/graduates get professional liability and malpractice insurance?

Equine Sports Massage

by Julie Boxall-Tully Principal, Institute of Complementary Animal Therapies

THE BACK PEOPLE


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WHAT IS McTIMONEY TREATMENT?

McTimoney Animal Practitioners use gentle light chiropractic techniques to rebalance the skeletal system and restore normal functionality to the animal receiving treatment. Where there are no underlying pathologies, treatment will enable the animal to regain maximal flexibility, even movement and symmetrical loading on all limbs. Where underlying pathologies affect the mobility of the animal, the McTimoney treatment will reduce discomfort and improve movement in areas where there are compensatory loading patterns. Due to the gentle application of the adjustments made, animals readily accept the treatment and may yawn, doze and exhibit other clear signs of relaxation throughout treatment. McTimoney treatment can be given as a stand-alone treatment or used alongside other therapies, and all practitioners are trained to the highest level at the McTimoney College.

All members of the McTimoney Animal Association are qualified after training with the premier institution of its kind, the McTimoney College in Abingdon, having studied up to three years at postgraduate level attaining an MSc or Post Graduate Diploma in chiropractic techniques for animals.

For more information on training go to www.animalcareer.co.uk. To find your local practitioner go to www.mctimoney-animal.org.uk or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/McTimoneyAnimalAssociation.


6th July 2015

What is McTimoneyTreatment?

McTimoney Animal Practitioners use gentle light chiropractic techniques to rebalance the

skeletal system and restore normal functionality to the animal receiving treatment. Where

there are no underlying pathologies, treatment will enable the animal to regain maximal

flexibility, even movement and symmetrical loading on all limbs. Where underlying

pathologies affect the mobility of the animal, the McTimoney treatment will reduce

discomfort and improve movement in areas where there are compensatory loading

patterns. Due to the gentle application of the adjustments made, animals readily accept

the treatment and may yawn, doze and exhibit other clear signs of relaxation throughout

treatment. McTimoney treatment can be given as a stand-alone treatment or used

alongside other therapies, and all practitioners are trained to the highest level at the

McTimoney College.

Case Study: McDuff the cocker spaniel.

Owner Catherine describes his symptoms, ‘A few days after having his haircut, he started

shaking and shivering. We thought this was due to the cold weather. He then was reluctant

to walk any great distance and his tail was between his legs. This was a symptom

displayed when he had a bad bout of pancreatitis although he was not constipated.’

“We took him to the vet who thoroughly examined him and took blood tests. He had been

sliding on the wooden flooring and toppled when turning corners suddenly. He was also

dragging his right back leg. He was given an injection and anti inflammatories. We

returned to the vet the following week and his blood results were clear. His tail was, at

times, rigid then gave an occasional twitch. He had another injection and a further

prescription of anti inflammatories. He was on bed rest with short trips to the garden for

the toilet. After a further visit to the vet, unfortunately not the one he had previously

seen, he was still uncomfortable and could only walk short distances despite being

prescribed more pills. This was very distressing as we then had a dog who could only lie in

his bed for most of the day, had no energy and was reluctant to go out. He had become

very aggressive if there was another dog in the vicinity which was most upsetting and

totally out of character. We knew this could not continue!’

Catherine took McDuff to see a McTimoney Animal Practitioner, who identified a key area

in the mid spine where there was a distinct area of skeletal imbalance and associated soft


McTIMONEY

Owner Catherine describes McDuff’s symptoms, ‘A few days after having his haircut, he started shaking and shivering. We thought this was due to the cold weather. He then was reluctant to walk any great distance and his tail was between his legs. This was a symptom displayed when he had a bad bout of pancreatitis although he was not constipated.’ “We took him to the vet who thoroughly examined him and took blood tests. He had been sliding on the wooden flooring and toppled when turning corners suddenly. He was also dragging his right back leg. He was given an injection and anti inflammatories. We returned to the vet the following week and his blood results were clear. His tail was, at times, rigid then gave an occasional twitch. He had another injection and a further prescription of anti inflammatories. He was on bed rest with short trips to the garden for the toilet. After a further visit to the vet, unfortunately not the one he had previously seen, he was still uncomfortable and could only walk short distances despite being prescribed more pills. This was very distressing as we then had a dog who could

only lie in his bed for most of the day, had no energy and was reluctant to go out. He had become very aggressive if there

was another dog in the vicinity which was most

upsetting and totally out of character. We knew this could not continue!’

Catherine took McDuff to see a McTimoney

Animal Practitioner, who identified a key area in the mid spine where there was a distinct area of skeletal imbalance and associated soft tissue pain. The pelvis was also rotated and tilted meaning that as the dog stood square, the pelvis was clearly not level above the feet. All this imbalance meant that McDuff was feeling a lot of pain and tension through his body and wasn’t able to move normally, hence his reluctance to do anything. After his first treatment, McDuff slept much of the day and the next morning, he was very much back to his normal self….. he scampered up the stairs and threw himself onto his owners bed! McDuff did require another two treatments to maintain his progress as he was apt to overdo it when he was feeling better, but is now a happy and fit little dog again.

CASE STUDY

McDuff the Cocker Spaniel


McTimoney: for health, performance & soundness

The McTimoney technique aligns and balances the animal's musculoskeletal system. By manipulating any misaligned joints throughout the whole body, with special attention to the spine and pelvis, it helps both to restore and maintain health, soundness and performance.

The treatment of animals is currently regulated under the Veterinary Act. All of our members have been trained in McTimoney techniques for animals and hold either a Postgraduate Diploma or MSc in Animal Manipulation. Our members work closely with vets to ensure a safe, appropriate and effective treatment takes place.

For more information, visit

www.mctimoneyanimalassociation.org.ukor write to McTimoney Animal Association, PO Box 10011, Nottingham, NG12 5UT /McTimoneyAnimalAssociation

Your Local Practitioners: For a list of accredited practitionersin your area, please visit our website.

20150709_MAA_AnimalTherapy-iss1_91x135

09 July 2015 15:43:00


A LOT OF RIDERS AND trainers view lungeing as a fairly boring but relatively quick way to give a horse a bit

of exercise when poor weather or time factors make riding difficult. Lungeing can, however, provide a really effective aerobic, gymnastic workout for your horse and, at the same time, it gives you the opportunity to watch and assess your horse properly. You can evaluate their paces; see if the horse is engaged and working effectively through its back; identify which muscles are working well and to note any areas of weakness or compensation. Dr Hilary Bentley of EquiAmi says “it can be quite enlightening but very sobering to watch those areas of the horse that you normally don’t observe from the saddle”.

All horses are essentially athletes and in this I include gymnasts and dancers as well as jumpers, sprinters, middle and long distance runners and triathletes (eventers). No human athlete would spend every training session running up and down the track or jumping high jumps etc. Several times a week they go into the gym to work on specific muscle groups in order to enhance their performance on the track or field. Our equine athletes need to have a similar fitness and training regime. The muscles that are most often neglected by horse owners are those in front of and behind the withers/under the saddle. These muscles not only provide the wither lift and lightness we so desire but also have the job of carrying the saddle and rider therefore are fundamental to everything we do. It doesn’t matter how well fitting your saddle is; the pressure of a rider impedes the blood flow through these muscles which therefore prevents optimum muscle development.

Working your horse on the lunge once or twice a week allows these muscles to build up to a greater extent. These improved muscles will then carry the saddle up and away from the spine more effectively, giving the horse greater physical strength and comfort which can only improve your overall performance. Generating wither-lift also has the beneficial effect of lifting the spine in the under-saddle region which in turn causes the spinous processes to separate which allows them to strengthen in this position. If a horse is working hollow the spinous processes are pushed together and impingement can occur. Lifting the back and enabling the stabilising structures to build, strengthen and support the spine is vital in rehabilitation from kissing spines surgery but can also go a long way in prevention of this and other disorders.

These changes will only occur, however, if your horse is working through his back on the lunge. Twenty minutes of trotting round on the forehand or leaning on side reins achieves nothing other than to compound old habits or can even be making matters worse. We do not want our horses to lean on us under saddle so we should not to allow them to lean on the lunge. Leaning encourages the undesirable development of the under neck muscles and we prefer our horses to develop a good topline, whilst the under neck muscles counterbalance and remain

soft. You can check this out for yourself. When you stand upright in a normal, relaxed manner and feel your neck, you will find that the muscles at the back of your neck are firm whilst the muscles on either side at the front of your neck remain soft. Now lean your chin on your other hand and feel what happens. You will notice how the muscles at the front of your neck immediately contract to support this new posture. When a horse leans it allows the under neck muscles to build up, doing the work that the upper neck muscles should be doing, rather than just counterbalancing. This in turn means that the desired development of the upper neck muscles that produce the topline is impaired as they are not working effectively.

Endeavouring to develop a lungeing aid that would promote engagement and topline with lightness and suppleness was challenging to EquiAmi but not impossible. The fact that you never lean on something that moves led Hilary to develop the EquiAmi lungeing aid which moves in a very similar way to the small communication movements that go down the reins when you are riding in order to keep a soft, equal contact. Once a horse starts working and carrying himself correctly, his muscle profile begins to change quite quickly and this soon becomes the horse’s default way of going as he feels stronger through his back and more comfortable and confident in this outline.

In rehabilitation, where a horse is unfit and not doing any ridden work, a daily session at lower intensity and for a shorter time will rebuild the wasted muscles and bring about the activation of the core muscles which are so important to physical strength and balance.

Lungeing In sickness and in health

by Dr Hilary Bentley BSc, MA, PhD

Equine Care


Image: synergistsaddles.com


In a study done over six weeks with six thoroughbred horses at The Racing School at Newmarket, all horses being on the same routine and were lunged in the EquiAmi lunge aid twice per week, the results showed a significant increase in stride length, a significant increase in speed and a highly significant decrease in asymmetry (the difference in stride length between the two reins). This was largely put down to the fact that the horses were working in balance and stepping through effectively and is very important, especially for dressage horses, as each movement is judged on both reins.

Lungeing with EquiAmi can add another dimension to the relationship you have with your horse and can become a very productive, beneficial and enjoyable part of the training programme for both of you.

Protection: boots or bandages for the horse; gloves, hat and boots for you

Warm-up: always spend a few minutes on both reins in a long, low outline. This is essential to increase the heart rate and warm the muscles ready for work.

Cool-down: always end with a few minutes on both reins cooling down and stretching. This lowers the heart rate, cools the muscles and assists with the removal of waste products from the working muscles.

Young or unfit horses: keep on big circles in walk & trot in order to protect developing joints from strain.

Fit horses: ask for more in the middle ten minutes of the session (canter work, spiralling in and out, pole work etc.).

Boredom: use lots of transitions and rein changes to keep the horse interested and attentive. Change the ‘menu’ frequently and don’t always start on the same rein.

Paces: make each pace as good as it can be; no dawdling in walk!

Aids: voice aids must be clear and consistent. Be prepared to praise often and say a firm NO when necessary.

Some useful points for successful lungeing

Power with lightness and swing Stretching and cooling


by Faye Morris B.Sc. (Hons) CHIRO MMCAI, MIVCA

SHOOTING IS A SPORT THAT demands a lot of physical exertion from your gundog. Long periods of activity

on rough terrain can make them vulnerable to injury and lameness that can sometimes bring a premature end to their working career. The gundog breeds are also predisposed to a number of diseases that affect the musculoskeletal system.

For example ...

HIP DYSPLASIA – Malformation and degeneration of the coxofemoral joints. Very common disease with high incidences in Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, Clumber Spaniels, Bracco Italiano, English Setter, Gordon Setter and Irish Red Setters.1

Affected dogs may become less active, have difficulty rising, running, jumping or stair climbing. They are often lame, worse after exercise, have a characteristic ‘bunny hopping’ gait and may stand with their hind limbs very close together. It is caused by a genetic predisposition for hip laxity which is then influenced by rapid weight gain, muscle mass and nutrition. There are many treatment options dependent upon severity including manual therapies, hydrotherapy, antiinflammatory medications(NSAID’s,) nutritional approaches, weight control and surgery.2

ELBOW DYSPLASIA – Caused by a series of four developmental abnormalities in the elbow joint that result in malformation and degeneration. This is a common disease and is noted in the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Curly Coated Retriever, Clumber Spaniel, Bracco Italiano, Italian Spinone, English Setter

and Gordon Setter. It is also often more likely in male dogs. Symptoms include intermittent or persistent forelimb lameness. Exercise will worsen the symptoms and often the initial sign is that of stiffness after rest. It is caused by genetic and developmental factors and is influenced by nutrition. Treatment is dependent upon severity but includes Surgery, NSAID’s and diet.

PATELLAR LUXATION –Displacement of the patellar from its normal position. This is one of the most common causes of stifle abnormality. It predominantly affects Toy breed dogs but the Flatcoated Retriever and Labrador Retriever are at risk. Female dogs are 1.5 times more likely to suffer than males. The condition may begin with abnormal hind-limb carriage, developing into skipping and lameness as degenerative joint disease develops. Causes are congenital or trauma related. Treatment depends upon the severity and includes surgery, manual therapy, weight control and NSAIDs.

OSTEOCHONDROSIS – Disordered growth process in cartilage that leads to excessive retention of cartilage. This leads to thickened areas of cartilage with an impaired supply of nutrients. This poor quality cartilage becomes damaged resulting in degeneration. This may lead to arthritic conditions eventually. It is a frequent and serious problem affecting many dog breeds. Gundogs at risk include the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever and Italian Spinone. The most common symptom is lameness either of sudden or insidious onset. Lameness is usually worse after exercise and can be severe. It is a developmental issue with strong nutritional influences. A high calcium diet is a risk factor, as

is rapid weight gain or rapid growth. Treatment includes NSAID’s, surgery, weight control, nutrition and manual therapies.

As you can see, many of these diseases have a developmental aspect and many problems can be prevented or minimised by balanced nutrition, slow weight gain in puppies and an appropriate exercise program. To try and prevent joint problems theHungarian Vizsla Breed Club suggests careful exercise up to 12 months, with no free running until 5 months and 7.5 minutes exercise/month of age.3

Hard working dogs without any of these health problems still pick up all manner of injuries in the field. These factors can all lead to a reduction in performance and a shortened working lifespan. Chiropractic is a manual therapy that can be used to treat both sports injuries and the mechanical compensatory problems that occur with the aforementioned chronic conditions. Chiropractors look for restriction in the range of motion in the joints of the body (primarily the spine).

We label these restrictions vertebral subluxation complexes ”VSC’s”. A VSC results in a reduction in joint mobility and a reduction in the function of the adjacent spinal nerve. The restriction leads to the animal changing its posture or gait pattern which, in turn, put strain on the rest of the body leading to increased dysfunction. A VSC can result in pain, stiffness, muscle tightness or organ dysfunction.4 This can result in a marked impairment in the performance of a working dog.Chiropractors treat VSCs by performing a quick and precise thrust along the plane of the affected joint

Chiropractic for Gundogs

Canine Care



by Faye Morris B.Sc. (Hons) CHIRO MMCAI, MIVCA

using their hands. It is a specific and gentle treatment. Unlike some other non-specific manipulation methods it does not overstretch ligaments but stays within the normal anatomical limits. Chiropractic is a holistic therapy; we treat the animal

Signs to watch out

for in your gundog

• Acute neck and back pain.

• Reduced performance and/or

stamina.

• Inability, reluctance or altered

technique jumping obstacles or

getting in or out of vehicle.

• Signs of pain on performing

certain movements.

• Change in gait; reduction in

speed, loss of freedom and

regularity, reduction in stride

length or pacing (moving the

legs on one side of the body at

the same time as opposed to

opposite diagonals.)

• Unevenly worn claws.

• Disliking being touched.

• “Puppy sitting.”

• Only lying on one side.5

Above: The author making an adjustment on the right sacroiliac joint of Rosie, a nine year old red setter.

Below: Motion palpation of the cervical spine.

REFERENCES

1. Sargan, D.R. I.D.I.D: Inherited Diseases in dogs. Web-based information for canine inherited diseases. Mamm Genome 2004 June; 15 (6) : 503-6

2. Tilley, L.P & Smith, “Blackwell’s five-minute veterinary consult: canine and feline” 4th Edition, Blackwell Publishing.

3. http://www.dogbreedhealth.com/hungarian-vizsla/

4. Redwood, D & Cleveland, C,S “Fundamentals of Chiropractic”, 2003, Mosby.

5. Chiropractic Care for Dogs, Cats and other Pets. International Veterinary Chiropractic Association information pamphlet.

6. Chiro J of Aust. 2009 MAR Vol. 39(1) pp. 27–28

7. http://www.drfleet.ca/Page/12315/0- 1/Canine+Case+Studies.aspx

8. http://www.ivcjournal.com/case-reports/chiropractic-casereport/

as a whole and will provide you with aftercare advice to continue the healing process at home. Chiropractic is a complementary therapy; it is not intended to replace conventional veterinary medicine but to work alongside it. It also can work well in a multidisciplinary framework for the treatment of complex cases, for example with hydrotherapy or acupuncture.

Most dogs respond very quickly to treatment. It usually takes between 1 to 4 treatments to settle an acute problem. Chronic problems usually require more treatments. Chronic conditions such as arthrosis, hip dysplasia or spondylitis (side effects of the aforementioned are pain and restricted joint mobility) can respond very well to regular supportive care every 2 to 6 months.

Whilst Chiropractic research has come on a great deal in the last decade in the field of human Chiropractic care, research in Veterinary Chiropracticis still in its infancy. There is a growing body of case studies detailing successful outcomes in both Acute and Chronic cases.6, 7

If you think Chiropractic could help your gundog then ensure you have your veterinary surgeon examine the animal first.

To locate a Chiropractor or veterinary surgeon trained in animal chiropractic techniques then contact the IVCA at www.ivca.de +49 700- 48220000.

Faye Morris B.Sc. (Hons) CHIRO MMCAI, MIVCA, is a Chiropractor based in Co. Meath. She graduated from MCC in 2005 and completed her certification in Veterinary Chiropractic with the IVCA in 2010. She runs a mixed practice treating humans and animals but has a particular interest in treating dogs.

Making an adjustment on the right shoulder.


The Fifth Elephant Osteopathy WorkshopCome and join us for this year’s exciting workshop where osteopaths get to pitch their skills and osteopathic principles to treating one of natures greatest species.

Set in the heart of the Golden Triangle, on the northern borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myannmar (Burma) you will be introduced to some of the 30 Asian Elephants that are employed by the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF).

Each of these elephants have been saved from a life of begging and working the tourist trade in areas alien to elephants. Many are ex logging elephants and bear the marks of their former careers.

Some of the elephants have physical issues, whilst others bear scars of a psychological nature.

Apply core osteopathic principles

Revisit the origins of osteopathy by applying principles to a very different mammal model.

Experience working with animals is desirable but not essential. You will be given guidance and safety instructions, and will be reminded every session of the need to listen and follow safety protocols at all times. Elephants are massive, YET they are also very agile.

Each elephant is an individual and just like humans, can have an off day. There may be occasions when we will alternate between animals we work with.

By joining us you will be able to contribute towards helping these individuals, as well as supporting the valuable conservation work that GTAEF and Zoo Ost Ltd are involved with.

ZOO OST LTD29 Alstone Croft,CheltenhamGlos. GL51 8HBTel: 01242 221153www.zooost.com

THAILAND12-16 October 2015

To book

your place

call 01242

221153


ACCOMMODATIONYour accommodation is provided by the excellent 5 Star Anantara Hotel, Golden Triangle. You will have views out over the Triangle, and the three countries it comprises. The GTAEF elephant camp is closely associated with the hotel, which is built into the rain forest. The hotel

provides the perfect tonic after a day in the heat working, and getting dirty, with the elephants.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?• Pick up and drop off at Chiang

Rai airport• Luxury accommodation to

include bed and breakfast• River trip including all transfers

and lunch• All elephant activities within the

workshop content• Wonderful company

NOT INCLUDED• Flights• Lunch (other than on the boat

trip) or evening meals• Beverages

BOOKING YOUR PLACEA deposit of £600.00 per person is required to secure a place on the workshop. All payments must be in £Sterling with deposits paid by 21st August, 2015, and the balance by 21st September, 2015. Please make cheques payable to Zoo Ost Ltd.

BACS: Zoo Ost Ltd 20-20-15 60989584

WORKSHOP FEES 2015

Shared room: £1850.00

Single room: £2350.00

Non osteopaths/partners sharing: £1600.00

Non osteopaths/partners single Room: £2100.00

PROGRAMMEThe workshop runs for 5 days. Delegates are advised to arrive on the 11th October in order to settle in.

Day 1Breakfast overlooking the Rain Forest. Welcome and introductions. Health and safety briefing. Programme content. Partners are offered alternative activities if they overdose on elephants. You will be offered the chance to visit Myannmar, learn how the top chefs cook, and many other activites which are organized to suit you. Meet some of the elephants. Observe movement. Palpate. Formulate treatment plans per individual case. Perform your first supervised treatment. Re-group back at the hotel by the pool for a de brief and leisure time. Watch the sun go down whilst sharing a drink with your workshop colleagues. Dinner – various options available.

Day 2Breakfast. Re assess elephant patients. More observations, palpation with specific aspects being focused on. Treatment of particular conditions discussed. Treatment performed under supervision. Re-assess work and findings for the day. Re group back at the hotel for discussion, swim, and cocktails, then dinner to suit.

Day 3Breakfast. Meet in reception for a day on the river. We will go by long tail boat to a Karen village to see how elephants are more traditionally used in tourism. The villagers have kept and worked with elephants for centuries and are now adapting to the ever changing face of the 21st century. There will be elephant riding as well as lunch and the opportunity to buy quality gifts to take home. On the return journey you will have the option to go by road and visit a genuine Buddhist temple. The final part of the journey allows time for anyone wishing, the opportunity to do further shopping at the Golden Triangle itself. Afterwards everyone will be free to swim, drink and eat at their choosing.

Day 4Breakfast. Mahout training. Lunch. Observe. Palpate. Treat cases. Discuss. Re group at hotel and discuss progress to date. Relax by the pool, cocktails, evening meal at a place of your choosing.

Day 5Breakfast. Observe cases. Palpate. Treat. Lunch. View slow motion video footage of the elephant cases that we’ve worked with during this trip. Discussion on changes in gait and behavior, along with ideas for further post treatment care for the mahouts and GTAEF staff. Visit to the Museum to discover the origins of this fascinating region.

For those who have already attended one of these workshops you will be encouraged to work with a particular individual and keep a log of your activity, including slow motion video to assess early treatment response.. There will be some other activities as well, which are in preparation at the moment


– PART I –An extract from her upcoming Biography.

100 years after four nurses visited the Royal College of Surgeons, four animal physiotherapists made arrangements to visit the Royal College of Vet Surgeons.

First we were just three: Mary Bromily, Lanni Roundel and myself. We met to discuss how to progress. Mary and I decided to tour Great Britain to talk to groups of vets, telling them of the advantages of physiotherapy for their clients yet making sure they knew that we would respect the fact that the client belonged first to the vet. The response was good. Mary was working in Wimpole Street, seeing animals at weekends and during her free time. Lanni was doing the same in the Guildford area. I was in Buckinghamshire working Newmarket and Lambourne.

Shortly afterwards came Horse of the Year and The Royal International, Hickstead. Luckily I was in between marriages so I had more time. We worked hard – each and every day! We soon saw results and boy, were there rewards! The demand went up and Mary started the first “Therapy Yard”.

Setting up the Association

We needed the top vets to be our president etc. I hosted a dinner party for Peter and Annie Scott-Dunn and Stuart and Jane Hastie on 23 February 1994. We had a great evening and all was agreed. It was in May 1994 when we approached the Royal College of Vet Surgeons for an appointment to see them. I arranged to meet for lunch at the Special Forces Club – a club reserved for MI5 and spies from all over the world. We then went on to visit the Royal College of Vet Surgeons.

Present were Annie Scott-Dunn, Teresa Leahy (now Dufosee), Melanie Gurdan and myself. We gave them the list of the people practicing in the Association and a list of all the vets we worked with.

The result was that they said they knew of us and liked the presentation however concerns were raised about having us under their umbrella as they felt they could only represent the people who had trained with them.

And so the work began!

How Veterinary Physiotherapy began

by Sherry Scott MBE


Animal PhysiotherapyIs this the career for you?

No need to be human physiotherapist first!

We now offer Equine and Canine Massage courses and Super CPDs to compliment and develop your work with animals

The College is the longest established animal physiotherapy college in the UK and trains students from around the world.

www.tcap.co.uk | call: 01844290545

Visit our website and choose from the various courses and CPDs available to help you start a new career or add to your current knowledge of animals.

FascialEdge®FascialEdge®

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Equine Massage System For Owners & Grooms There`s nothing like regular massage to keep your horse`s back at its best. With the FascialEdge® system, you can give your horse a deep thorough massage in less than ten minutes ... without straining your hands & fingers. Widely used by veterinarians, physios & chiropractors, now the FascialEdge® is available to horse owner and trainers.

`I wouldn`t want to work on a horse with my hands alone now. The `Edge` works deeper and quicker, but still gives great feedback from the tissues. A great tool for horse maintenance` Andrew Jennings MRCVS

FascialEdge Tool Easy & comfortable for horse and user Titanium plated for low friction A quality tool made to last a lifetime

Instructions Booklet Step-by-step photos & guidelines

Memory Stick Video Guide Video demonstration and graphic animations of the Scanlines, easy-to -follow patterns of massage strokes

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Equine FascialEdge

Equine Spinal Manipulation & Soft-Tissue technique Practical training in the treatment of equine joint & myofascial problems

A multi-disciplinary course, open to established equine therapists, teaching the skills used by equine physios, chiropractors and osteopaths throughout the UK. Seminars are very much hands-on, teaching practical skills which can

be used from day one. Examination and technique follow a logical approach, tracing the kinetic chains of the horse to locate & treat problems, whether in the joints or myofascial tissues. The course is based on, and referenced to established human and equine science. For more information visit

our website equine seminars page, or to simply call us direct. Course tutor: Andrew Glaister D.C. 5 weekend seminars October 2015 – Feb 2016

Applied Equine Biomechanics Location: Moreton Morrel College, Warwickshire

www.fascialedge.com 01834 860200


EQUINE STOMACH ULCERS (Equine Gastric Ulceration Syndrome) are now recognized as a common problem amongst

all classes of horses whether they are racehorses in training, Sport horses, breeding stock or pleasure riding horses.

Although the risk of gastric ulceration and the severity of the ulcers detected can vary depending on discipline and management, Vets now regularly diagnose ulcers in all types of horse.

The horse’s stomach has two distinctly different regions with different linings. The upper part of the stomach is lined by a simple cream-coloured squamous mucosa that has limited barrier function and is very sensitive to the effects of gastric acid exposure. The lower, pink, glandular lining secretes highly acidic gastric juice and has a complex barrier function to maintain its integrity; this relies upon a good blood supply and a thick mucus coating rich in bicarbonate; an

alkali, to buffer the acidic gastric juice.

Horses have evolved as “trickle feeders” spending many hours eating a fibre-based diet, which produces a series of layers of fibre in the upper squamous region moving down into the thick acidic juice in the body of the stomach before moving on into the small intestine; this is a continuous process. The regular chewing of a fibre-based diet produces lots of bicarbonate-rich saliva that helps to buffer the acidic gastric juice.

The work of exercise is a significant risk factor for gastric ulceration and this risk increases as horses work harder and faster. The production

of acidic gastric juice is continuous but increases with exercise as well as feeding, as would be expected. Periods of starvation and a low fibre – high concentrate diet are also well recognized risk factors for ulcer development. Other less definable stressors such as general management, stabling conditions, lack of access to turnout, changes in social grouping, concurrent disease including chronic

pain associated with lameness and excessive use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs all pose further risk.

Horses in race training carry the greatest risk with some ulceration being detected in 92% of animals although the extent and severity will vary. However almost two thirds of Riding Club and pleasure horses have also been shown to develop ulcers.

Symptoms of the chronic low grade gastric pain associated with ulcers are often vague with reduced performance being common although often difficult to assess objectively unless marked. Certainly failure to achieve optimal body condition, a poor haircoat and some degree of appetite suppression are frequent non-specific signs in performance

Equine Stomach Ulcersby Dr Tim Brazil BVSc, PhD Cert EM (Internal Medicine) DECEIM MRCVS

Equine Care


Tim Brazil qualified as a Veterinary Surgeon from Liverpool University in 1988 and has spent all of his career working with large animals of different shapes and sizes. That time has been divided between University posts in equine medicine / respiratory medicine research and private equine practice. He was the first holder of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons Certificate in Equine Internal Medicine and is a Diplomate of the European College of Equine Internal Medicine. He was awarded a PhD from Edinburgh University in 1999 for studies on inflammatory cell biology and lung inflammation in the horse. Although he has worked in private practice for the last 15 years he still regularly contributes to continuing education

meetings and conferences for practicing equine vets both in the UK and internationally. He has published articles in textbooks and clinical and basic science journals. In 2005 he established an ambulatory equine internal medicine consultancy service (Equine Medicine on the Move) based in the Cotswolds, UK providing consultancy, diagnostic and second opinion services to the pharmaceutical industry, DEFRA as well equine practices throughout the UK and Europe. He is a consultant to The Brooke, a charity that provides free health care and education to working equids and their owners in some of the world’s poorest communities for whom he helped to establish a clinical audit programme worldwide.

horses. Resistance to riding aids such as leg pressure, girthing, placing rugs and grooming along the chest and belly are all common signs as well a sometimes marked changes in temperament. These signs are most commonly noted in Sports horses, particularly those used for Dressage. Some horse may become quite aggressive toward grooms or owners. Surprisingly overt colic is rare, even in animals with severe ulcers. Horses displaying such symptoms should have gastroscopy performed by a Veterinary Surgeon to assess which part(s) of the stomach are affected and the extent and severity of any ulcers. This is important to help correlate the clinical signs and gastroscopy findings as well as guiding treatment, which may vary depending on what type of ulcers are found. During gastroscopy the stomach ulcers can be graded (Grade 0: normal, Grade 1: minor inflammation and thickening due to wear and tear, Grades 2, 3 or 4 mild, moderate or severe depending on the number size, depth and extent of the ulcers). However it should be noted that all horses are individuals and vary hugely as to the severity of the clinical signs that they may show when suffering from a particular grade of ulceration.

Horses with significant ulceration are most likely to be treated with acid suppressant therapy, typically oral

omeprazole to encourage healing although other drugs may also be required. This will be the mainstay of the initial treatment of Equine Gastric Ulceration Syndrome.

However affected horses may remain at risk of recurrence of stomach ulceration in future seasons and years and it is critical that all potential risk factors are addressed. Clearly management changes such as ad lib access to roughage, avoidance of periods of starvation, regular pasture turnout if possible, multiple small concentrate feed meals rather than fewer larger feeds as well as potential addressing any obvious socialisation issues are all critical.

However we do not live in a perfect world and it may not be possible to optimise all management factors conducive to gastric health and most importantly horses need to remain in training and work for their chosen discipline whether that be Eventing, Endurance or Hacking. Therefore feed supplements that promote gastric health and buffer or neutralise acidic gastric juice are frequently employed.

Dr Tim Brazil BVSc, PhD Cert EM (Internal Medicine) DECEIM MRCVS. European Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine. Equine Practitioner, Equine Medicine on the Move & Bourton Vale Equine Clinic, Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, UK


DEVELOPED IN SWEDEN, Back on Track products are widely used by top riders and trainers throughout Europe. The range of high performance clothing and horse wear offer benefits, comfort and style.

All Back on Track products are made from advanced Welltex® fabric which is infused with ceramic particles. These ceramic particles cause long wave infra-red heat to radiate back towards the body. The body responds positively to the infra-red wave, increasing circulation, which can relieve joint tension, maximise performance and help avoid injury.

When keen rider, Rachael Holdsworth came across some product information about Back on Track products at a show, she became intrigued about this technology and the potential benefits of the fabric. Rachael owns a 16.2hh, ten year old ex-racehorse, Alpha Gamble. Known as Alfie, he ran for several seasons in national hunt races and won both a point to point and a race under rules. Since his retirement from racing he is regularly hunted by Rachael and has served as a master’s horse, so he has frequent long days out in the hunting field. Rachael also competes Alfie in unaffiliated dressage shows and hunter trials outside the hunting season.

Rachael said, “Alfie does a lot and works hard, I want him to feel at his best whether he is enjoying a day in the hunting field or is out at a local dressage show. Having read up about the Back on Track products, I decided I had to try the Back on Track Leg Wraps Royal”.

The Back on Track Leg Wraps Royal are made from a thick neoprene outer with a soft padded inner lined with the Welltex fabric. They have a strong Velcro fastening which makes it quick

and easy to achieve optimal fit around the leg, without over-tightening. The carefully designed shape ensures that it sits neatly around the fetlock and down to the coronet.

Back on Track® Leg Wraps Royal and Mesh Rug

PRODUCT PROFILE



Rachael continued, “After a busy day out, Alfie can be prone to slightly filled legs the next morning. Previously I would bandage his legs overnight and they wouldn’t be too bad next morning, but I would have to take him for a good walk before the legs had totally gone down. Now I use the Back on Track Leg Wraps Royal, and there is no filling in his legs after a night wearing them. When I get home from either hunting or a show, I apply the wraps. They simply stay put until the next morning and I just undo the Velcro and off they come! They are so much simpler to use than

bandages. The wraps are beautifully made and the soft inner fabric can be unvelcroed from the neoprene outer for washing. The wraps have become an essential part of my kit and they go on Alfie as a matter of course after a day out. I have also found the wraps to be useful for when travelling especially for longer distances. They provide protection and he arrives at the other end relaxed and with no stiffness”.

The Back on Track Leg Wraps Royal impressed Rachael so much, she decided to get another of Back on Track’s best-selling products; the Mesh Rug. The Back on Track Mesh Rug is a very popular lightweight multifunctional rug ideal for travelling or in the stable. The mesh is sturdy, yet airy with breathable qualities and is lined with a thin layer of Welltex ceramic fabric. The Mesh


®Back on Track’s own unique Welltex fabric works by reflecting the body’s infrared heat due to the infused ceramic particles in the textile, helping to support circulation and ease muscle tension.

Visit our website to download a brochure and for UK stockists or contact us for more information at [email protected].

Learn more at www.backontrack.com/UK Committed to wellbeing

®Mesh rug, Saddle Pad, Royal Quick Wraps and tendon boots, all with Welltex . Braces and clothing for people also available. Award winning

Supple

Muscles

and Joints

20150709_BOT_AnimalTherapy_190x135

09 July 2015 19:24:46

Rug can be used either on its own in the summer months or under another rug in colder weather. The rug can be used both prior to exercise and afterwards to help the muscles recuperate.

Rachael said, “I use the Mesh Rug to alleviate any stiffness and particularly if Alfie has had a hard day. He will wear it overnight, under his stable rug if it is chilly. The rug fits well around his neck and shoulders and does not rub. I often use it when he goes on the horse walker too – it helps his circulation and is good if the weather is cold.

The tail flap of the Mesh Rug is also great as it totally envelops his back end. Many rugs on the market that claim to have therapeutic benefits seem to concentrate mainly on the horse’s back. The Mesh Rug really provides benefit to Alfie’s’ entire body. The rug is incredibly well made and I really believe that Alfie likes wearing it.

After a busy day out hunting, Alfie walks out of his stable the next

morning with no stiffness or puffy joints. I am convinced that both the Back on Track Mesh Rug and the Leg Wraps Royal are beneficial to him”.

The Mesh Rug also comes with hooks which enable a Back on Track neck cover to be attached to it. It is important to remember when ordering any of the Back on Track rugs that they are measured in European sizes which go from the withers to the top of the tail. The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) have a very useful rug size conversion chart which can be found on their website.

The Back on Track range covers stable rugs, turnout rugs, saddle pads and a whole range of braces and wraps that also cater for humans and dogs.

For more information visit:www.backontrack.com/uk/homewww.facebook.com/UKBackOnTrack

PRODUCT PROFILE


Hawksmoor Hydrotherapy Training Centre ~ Watling Street ~ Nuneaton ~ Warwickshire ~ CV10 0TQ

www.hawksmoorhydrotherapy.com ~ [email protected] Hawksmoor Hydrotherapy Training Centre was established by Sue Hawkins in 2000 and were the sole authors of the first ever qualification in small animal hydrotherapy. Hawksmoor co-authored the re-developed Level 3 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals and the new Level 3 Diploma in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals. Hawksmoor are renowned for their individual mentoring service to each learner for as long as they require optimising their learning potential. We believe it is vital to provide continual support to our learners working in the hydrotherapy industry, as it is a continually evolving field of animal therapy. Hawksmoor’s training team has a diverse range of skills consisting of Veterinary Surgeons, Veterinary Nurses, Physiotherapists and Canine Hydrotherapists. This enables learners to access a variety of skills and develop not only their own knowledge and understanding but also their own clinical reasoning skills. Every member of the Hawksmoor team are friendly and approachable allowing you to ask questions to gain the understanding you require to become a competent, professional Hydrotherapist. We therefore offer the highest standard of training for:

• Level 3 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals • Level 3 Diploma in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals

HANNAH ASHTON BSc (hons), Dip A Phys, MIAAT

07971 431884 [email protected]

www.chhp.co.uk

Animal Physiotherapy is used to rehabilitate and maintain health, mobility, function and performance in all animals whether they are your top competitor or your best friend

Arthritis, Back and Joint Pain - Muscular Pain – Tendonitis - Improve Well-being and Performance - Rehabilitation

Fully Insured Veterinary Physiotherapist

Covering Gloucestershire and surroundingOver 7 years experience working with horses of all

disciplines and working, competing and companion dogs




Hawksmoor Hydrotherapy Training Centre, Watling Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV10 0TQ www.hawksmoorhydrotherapy.com

[email protected]













Hawksmoor Hydrotherapy Training Centre was established by Sue Hawkins in 2000, and Sue was the sole author of the first ever qualification in small animal hydrotherapy.

Hawksmoor co-authored the re-developed Level 3 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals and the new Level 3 Diploma in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals.

Hawksmoor are renowned for their individual mentoring service to each learner for as long as they require optimising their learning potential. We believe it is vital to provide continual support to our learners working in the hydrotherapy industry, as it is a continually evolving field of animal therapy.

Hawksmoor’s training team has a diverse range of skills consisting of Veterinary Surgeons, Veterinary Nurses, Physiotherapists and Canine Hydrotherapists. This enables learners to access a variety of skills and develop not only their own knowledge and understanding but also their own clinical reasoning skills. Every member of the Hawksmoor team are friendly and approachable allowing you to ask questions to gain the understanding you require to become a competent, professional Hydrotherapist.

We therefore offer the highest standard of training for:

• Level 3 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals

• Level 3 Diploma in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals


LIKE many young girls, I was obsessed with animals, specifically horses and as soon as I was old

enough, all my spare time was spent at a local riding school. There was no denying that even at that young age I knew I wanted to work with animals.

The interest in riding and caring for horses only grew and continued throughout my years at school, culminating in a BSc Equine Science and Management degree at university.

Whilst at university I furthered my education by working in a veterinary practice as well as equestrian groom positions in competition yards, point to point yards and flat racing yards to gain as much knowledge and experience as possible.

After completing my degree, I thought it was time to do a bit of travelling, however with the horses still featuring heavily in my plans I moved to Switzerland and gained a position at the International dressage yard of Simonne and Hans Staub. Both were riders of the Swiss dressage team and gave me a fantastic opportunity to groom and ride alongside them, attending International competitions such as the Sunshine Tour, Spain, FEI, CDI3* Lipica and CDI3* Munich, Germany. I worked for them for three years and gained a huge amounts of experience from some of the best riders in the world.

On my return to the UK, I continued to compete, but this time with my own dressage horse, who I still have. It was a difficult move back to England and to enable me to find a house and continue competing I was forced to look outside of the equine industry and find a better paid position!

However, whilst working I never gave up hope I would secure a career in the equestrian industry.

I decided to look into further education and see what my options were. I came across The College of Animal Physiotherapy (TCAP). After reading through the website, speaking to them and having an interview I became a student once again.

With my understanding of equestrianism, Animal Physiotherapy just made sense. I know how to ride a horse well and understand biomechanics, so linking it all together enables me to truly understand what we need to do to enable horses to perform as we wish, however, I don’t

profess to know everything and that is where TCAP stand out. They are not just a learning institute, they are a support network (even when you are qualified), an incredible team of people with a huge amount of experience and knowledge and I have now become to think of them as true friends.

I am now a fully qualified, licenced and insured animal physiotherapist as well as an accredited member of the International

Association of Animal Therapy (IAAT). I have started my own business which is constantly growing and my clients love the fact I have such a strong equestrian background so I can not only fully treat their animals, but also help them progress and prevent injury.

I cover the Yorkshire area with my business E GREEN Animal Physiotherapy, treating horses and dogs with a range of problems. Every day is different and I love it.

Like all therapists, I always work closely with vets and gain consent before any treatment.

www.egreenanimalphysio.co.uk

Emma GreenAnimal Physiotherapist

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Email at:[email protected]

Visit us online:www.egreenanimalphysio.co.uk

Call on: 0781 777 6313

Company Registration Number: 9278522

• Pre and postoperative physiotherapy• Oedema, in�ammation & adhesions• Infection• Tendon or ligament injury• Muscle injury, strain or soreness• Fractures• Pain relief• Wound healing• Proud �esh prevention• Skin problems• Loss of performance• Muscle atrophy • Neurological conditions• Orthopaedic conditions • Laminitis• Navicular Syndrome

Treatments include...

• Manual techniques...• Massage - various types• Stretching• Trigger point techniques• Palpation• Lateral �exion • Lumber and rib lifts• Skeletal manipulation

Electrotherapy options...

• Ultrasound• PEMF (Pulsed electromagnetic �eld therapy)

• Phototherapy• Magnetic therapy• Taping• Cryotherapy

We can help with...

Specialists in Equine &Canine Physiotherapy



Call on: 0781 777 6313








We can help with...




Call on: 0781 777 6313








We can help with...


37Animal Therapy Magazine | SUMMER 2015Email at:[email protected]


Call on: 0781 777 6313








We can help with...




Call on: 0781 777 6313








We can help with...




Call on: 0781 777 6313








We can help with...



EVERY ATHLETE LOOKS for that winning edge. In the equestrian community, where horses compete for ribbons and money, savvy equine enthusiasts quickly avail themselves of the latest modality, technique or supplement, intended to help them find that edge. Unfortunately, often times, their new undertaking turns out to be nothing but hype. However, on other occasions, they are fortunate enough to discover something which can offer improved training benefits, and faster recovery time from exercise and injury, and offer them that winning edge. Equestrians are now claiming that equine kinesiology taping might just be that edge.

Taken from human athletics, where Olympians and professional athletes worldwide are using the tape successfully, Equi-Tape®, the first kinesiology tape developed for the equine athlete, has led the effort crossing over to the equestrian community to help sport horses of all disciplines train harder and recover quicker. Equi-Taping®, a taping method developed specifically for the professional equine practitioner, has seen tremendous growth in the equestrian community with good reason. Many owners and trainers have seen the astounding results, while professional equine practitioners who have added the Equi-Taping® modality to their respective practices have seen firsthand, the effect of equine taping.

It is interesting to note, that the benefits of kinesiology tape are derived directly from its application; it contains no medicine. The key to its success, lies in its elasticity and

structure, the manner in which it adheres to the body, and the method and technique of the application. The benefits derived from the proper taping application determines the physiological goal desired, and the eventual benefit of the application. This can often be confusing, as kinesiology taping is unique in its mode of action on the body.

Equi-Taping® Methodology– The Winning Edge

by Dr. Beverly Gordon, The Horse in Motion, Inc., Equi-Tape Founder and Developer

PRODUCT PROFILE


SUSPENSORY DESMITIS BEFORE AND AFTER

Here is a 26 year old mare (above) with significant Suspensory Desmitis. The owner was concerned that this condition was progressive and the mare seemed increasingly more uncomfortable. The horse was assessed by a professional practitioner and it was determined that a support taping (below) would be of benefit.

It is apparent from these photos, that the tape offered good support and suspensory ligament relief. In addition, this taping does not interfere with normal flexion and extension because of the tapes elasticity. In fact, the tape assists in bringing the fetlock back to a more normal position. In conclusion, the owner reported that the horse seem much more comfortable.

MORE COMMON APPLICATIONS

Although there are seemingly limitless applications associated with the use of equine kinesiology taping, here are some common Tapings which can be of great value to horse owners.


GENERAL BENEFITS OF USE

Depending upon the application of the tape, the overall effect is designed to decrease pain and increase lymph and blood circulation. Equi-Tape® specially designed for the equine, can also be used to relax tight and tense muscles, assist weak muscles, support joints, tendons and ligaments, as well as decrease inflammation and swelling.

Furthermore, because of the tape’s elasticity, being non-restrictive allowing for full range of motion, it is a valuable tool and should be included in everyone’s training and health care regimen.

While the uses of equine kinesiology tape are many, some of the more common uses include:

• Athletic training, prevention and recovery – Horses that become fatigued from repetitive stress, overuse or overworked muscles. Myofascial conditions, muscle recovery after competition, and joint support before, during or after exercise are just a few.

• Therapeutic and rehabilitation – Horses affected by suspensory and DDFT (digital deep flexor tendon) injuries, ankle and hock joint issues, shoulder problems, pain and swelling from conditions such as lymphedema or trauma, and back and neck pain.

• Other uses - Abdominal support for pregnant mares, trigger point and acupuncture point stimulus, heel bandaging, hoof growth stimulation and sensory tapings to name a few.

THE IMPORTANCE OF A PROPER ASSESSMENT

The benefits associated with equine kinesiology taping are many, but are best realized when a proper assessment of the horses condition has been completed. If taping is being considered relative to an injury or recovery from an injury, a proper assessment and diagnosis from a doctor of veterinary medicine is strongly recommended.

If you are considering adding equine kinesiology taping to your horses’ daily regimen or athletic training regimen, it is best to first consult with a Certified Equi-Taping® professional. Non-professionals, trainers and horse owners can also learn to tape their own horses, but it is often initially under the direction and guidance of a trained equine kinesiology taping professional.

More information on Equi-Tape® and Equi-Taping® Certification Courses, visit www.equi-tape.com. Additional information can be found at: www.TheHorseinMotion.com

PRODUCT PROFILE


By Toby Elford, LEISURE RIDE GROUP

When, in 2014 The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) commissioned a detailed white paper on riding arena surfaces – it was clear that at last, people in the corridors of horsepower were coming to realize the importance of the surface to performance and overall health of the horse. Whilst it’s impossible to condense a 51-page study into a short article – it’s important that owners understand different surface types, how they affect the horse and how each surface material behaves over time. If you do, you will save money, time and most importantly you will understand the factors that could affect your horses’ wellbeing. So pay attention class! – arena surface 101 is about to begin:

TYPES OF MATERIALSurface materials vary, but you have natural materials such as turf, sand and wood, and synthetic ones, such as textile fibre, rubber, PVC and wax – many surfaces, especially those with fancy brand-names are the manufacturers own cocktail of materials and the recipe is a closely guarded not-so-secret – but the basic components are these:

TURFIt’s what nature intended – but unless you have your own clerk-of-the-course, have unlimited acreage, and an army of grounds-people turf isn’t suitable for the average arena – five circuits and you’ll have a pronounced track, and beyond that it deteriorates to mud – a swamp in rain and like concrete in summer. Anyone that’s done Pony Club camp in a field knows exactly what I mean.

WOODCHIPWoodchip is a surface material that unlike the others, doesn’t need to be mixed with anything else. Most other surfaces are a mix of sand and additives. Woodchip is relatively inexpensive, so for a long time was used on arenas and racing gallops and it’s enduring popularity is based on price, (or lack of!). Woodchip is exactly that: chipped wood, so is mostly natural cellulose. It has a slight springiness underfoot. Whilst it may save you a few quid, remember that wood is a natural material, and composts down – so your wet arena woodchip will go a bit slimy then eventually turn to soil. Because it’s a material rotting down, the behavior of the surface underfoot is also constantly shifting – a year on and it will ride nothing like the day you put it in. The only answer is to add more woodchip

– and to change a woodchip arena over to a more modern surface is costly - a classic case of “buy-cheap-buy-twice”.

SANDSand is by far the most popular arena surface type. So, I hear you ask: “What’s wrong with lovely natural sand for my arena?” - In riding terms there isn’t the wrong kind of snow – but there is the right kind of sand. Pointed Silica to be exact – and there are only a few quarries in the UK that have it. The only problem is that sand alone lacks the stability and consistency to be the sole ingredient – if you’ve ever seen a sand dune blowing about, or have sunk up to the ankle whilst paddling on the beach you’ll see what I mean – there’s a huge variance in how sand behaves when very wet or very dry. A sand-only surface tends to be dry, dusty, deep and can cause tripping. Builders sand often has salts & chemicals in – so check with your supplier that it is silica suitable for equestrian use. So once you have your sand – the next question is what you add to it to create that lovely firm, cushioned ride.

RUBBERGood old rubber…or bad old rubber – it really depends on who you talk to. Some hate it, others swear by it. Either way it’s advisable to simply understand it’s properties and pitfalls and make your own mind up. Equestrian rubber

Riding Arena

Surfaces



is mostly recycled auto rubber – that’s chopped up synthetic car tyres to you and me – designed to perform on asphalt roads with the warmth that friction generates. It’s mostly advertised as 99.9% wire-free, so there’s always that 0.1% somewhere. To make it ready to be used in arenas they strip the wire out and shred it. Rubber is bouncy, frost resistant and drains well. However it’s oft reported to have a tendency to break down over time and turn the arena black under the surface of the sand. It’s also costly to get rid of as it’s not very enviro-friendly (have you ever tried to take a tyre to the council tip?). Also consider the effect of walking on rubber – arguably too much rubber in an arena has masses of energy return– but the forces go in all directions, which raises questions about sureness of footing. It’s down to personal opinion, but ask yourself if the Olympics, or World Equestrian Games took place on a rubber surface?

PVCPVC can be bought on its own as an additive for sand, or is often sold ready-mixed as an off-the-peg surface. The PVC is either granular, or is the chopped up recycled sleeving from electrical cables. When mixed with the sand it produces a frost resistant riding surface. The ready-mixed surfaces may also contain wax to help the sand/pvc mix bind together. The pitfalls really all boil down to longevity and ride depth. These surfaces tend to ride deep, and the harrows to tend them

are the leveling type – moving material around the school to return it to flat. For the waxed ones, the wax eventually deteriorates and the ride goes deeper and deeper – but can be reversed by re-waxing. Again however, top-level competition doesn’t take place on this surface type as the competitions demand a surface where the horses go “off-the-top”.

TEXTILE FIBREThese surfaces are the ones currently used for top level competition – at London 2012 the surface at Greenwich was a sand and fibre surface. The fibres can come from many different sources, and be of many different materials: wool, cotton, rayon, nylon, polyester etc etc. At the budget end of the market there is recycled chopped carpet and underlay – it’s called all sorts of brand names, but its quite simply recycled chopped used carpet. The main pitfall with this stuff is about what actually is in it – the answer is: Whatever the recycling centre was processing that week before it was shipped to you. So it could have natural fibres in that rot or synthetic ones that lack tensile strength – meaning your surface deteriorates over time. At the better end of the market there are fibres that are 100% polyester – meaning they don’t rot and you get many years of consistent riding. The fibres are ultimately there for a few simple reasons: To stabilize and firm up the sand. And to add structure and energy return. The very best sand and fibre surfaces are

springy, allowing the hoof and joint to perform the movement without jarring or twisting and where the hoof penetrates only the top half inch of surface – just like natural turf. There is currently an ongoing study by the University of Central Lancashire that is impact-testing all the main fibre surface brands – but whilst we await those results it’s telling that most top competition organisers and many leading professional riders all choose sand and fibre surfaces to compete and train on.

WAXArena wax is used in conjunction with a sand-based surface – it won’t stabilize sand itself – rather is used as a binder to help sand and additives stay together. It can also offer a degree of cold resistance, as it’s the water content in a surface that freezes, not the components themselves. The London 2012 surface was a waxed surface – and the wax is useful where the user wants to not have to irrigate – especially in indoor arenas, and where water is metered. Because the wax is a dust inhibitor – the surfaces are useful where dust sensitivity in the horse could be an issue. The main drawback is cost – a waxed surface costs considerably more, but the benefits could make it worth spending the extra.

In conclusion – there is plenty the FEI study can help owners, riders and those interested in equine health make an informed choice (you can read it for yourself at http://www.fei.org/system/files/Equine%20Surfaces%20White%20Paper.pdf)

However in the meantime, whilst more research is being done – consider what surface materials offers the most consistency, longevity, quality and firmness of ride and cushioning for the joints - buy the best surface you can afford, and put it on a well-constructed free draining base - the long-term rewards will be felt by both the horse, and your pocket.

Toby Elford is the UK Sales Manager at Leisure Ride Group, a leading provider of arena surfaces.

‘THE BEST SURFACE I HAVE EVER RIDDEN ON’Carl Hester, Gold Medallist, London 2012

Call now 01684 273 232or email [email protected]

Arena Fibre

from £180

+VAT per bale

Through our passion for performance horse sports, we have developed our own Trojan® range of surfaces which offer unrivalled durability, energy return and appearance - tailored to each riding discipline.

Trojan® Arena Fibres for stabilising or adding energy to your surface. 100% polyester fibre that won’t rot.

Arena & gallop construction or renovation, maintenance equipment and advice - with options to suit all budgets.

‘TROJAN DRESSAGE TURF IS FANTASTIC TO RIDE ON, YOU CAN ACTUALLY FEEL THEENERGY FROM IT THROUGH THE HORSES’Charlotte Dujardin, London 2012 Individual Gold Medallist and World Record holder

Construction & renovation

Trojan® PolyFibre



‘THE BEST SURFACE I HAVE EVER RIDDEN ON’Carl Hester, Gold Medallist, London 2012

Call now 01684 273 232or email [email protected]

Arena Fibre

from £180

+VAT per bale

Through our passion for performance horse sports, we have developed our own Trojan® range of surfaces which offer unrivalled durability, energy return and appearance - tailored to each riding discipline.

Trojan® Arena Fibres for stabilising or adding energy to your surface. 100% polyester fibre that won’t rot.

Arena & gallop construction or renovation, maintenance equipment and advice - with options to suit all budgets.

‘TROJAN DRESSAGE TURF IS FANTASTIC TO RIDE ON, YOU CAN ACTUALLY FEEL THEENERGY FROM IT THROUGH THE HORSES’Charlotte Dujardin, London 2012 Individual Gold Medallist and World Record holder

Construction & renovation

Trojan® PolyFibre


Are you a pet owner that is looking for effective holistic treatments to improve the healing and wellbeing of your pet?

Are you an animal health professional looking to offer the latest innovative therapy products to your clients? Then the Photizo® Vetcare red light therapy device is a must!

The Photizo® Vetcare red light therapy device is rechargeable and has been specifically developed for the animal owner to use safely and effectively with a simple, one-touch, 31 second dose of light therapy.

With a growing number of UK animal health professionals, such as veterinary physiotherapists, now offering light therapy using Photizo® Vetcare as part of their therapy tool kit, pet owners and competitors in canine or equine sports are experiencing the increased healing results and long term benefits for their animals.

Photizo®

WHAT IS LED PHOTOTHERAPY?

Light therapy works by energising compromised cells and increasing blood flow using highly beneficialwavelengths of red and infrared light from high power LEDs. Studies show appropriate doses of red light therapy will:

• Increase energy in cells

• Increase cell regeneration

• Reduce inflammation and increase lymphatic activity

• Increase circulation

• Increase immune system activity

• Provide natural pain relief and calming effect by increasing endorphins and serotonin

• Cell death is reversed when applied within 4-6 hrs of injury

• Help to minimise scarring and scar tissue

Faster Natural Healing and Pain Relief with LED Phototherapy

PRODUCT PROFILE


With increasing demand for holistic therapies by owners of animals in sport and companion pet owners, there is an incredible surge in popularity for modern Red Light Phototherapy using the latest high power LED technology.

Animal sports competitors already treating their animals with Photizo Vetcare proactively for general muscle recovery report seeing improved mobility and flexibility in their animals during training sessions and competition.

Red and infrared light therapy has been scientifically proven and works on numerous conditions such as wounds and musculoskeletal injuries. Red light is absorbed into the body and works by increasing energy in cells which have been damaged. Treatments will help to speed up the natural healing process after surgery

or injury and also provide long term natural pain relief for conditions like arthritis or hip/elbow dysplasia.

For those who are keen to take an active role in their pet’s rehabilitation can check if Photizo Vetcare is available for hire through their animal health professional, this is ideal if your animal needs only a 1-2 week course post-surgery or following injury. Photizo Vetcare will last for many years and so is an ideal investment if your animal competes, is in work or requires a long term or pain management treatment.

For more information contact Danetre Health Products on 01327 [email protected] www.danetrehealthproducts.com

01327 310909www.photizo.co.uk

A non-invasive treatmenttool promotes faster natural

healing and pain relief.Ideal for wounds and

musculoskeletal injuries

• Wounds - inc. bites & stings• Infected wounds• Musculoskeletal Injuries - muscle, tendon, ligament, cartilage & joints• Stiff joints• Elbow & Hip Dysplasia• Arthritis• Deep Tissue Bruising• General Bruising• Acral lick granulomas• Abscesses• Inflammation / Swelling• Haematomas• Skin Conditions• Stress Fractures• Mastitis• Acute & Chronic Pain

“Fantastic product that I can’t get enough of! I use it in the majority of my Physio consults and enjoy discussing the benefits with my clients”Kerrie Bainbridge, Hounds to Horses Physiotherapy

HEALING POWER OF MODERN LED RED LIGHT PHOTOTHERAPY


RufusCanine Care

by Pete van Dongen, Drs(Utrecht), CertVR, MRCVS, CCRT. Pennard Vets, Sevenoaks


This is the story of Rufus, a lovely 8 year old, male neutered, Hungarian Viszla Crossbreed, who was hit by a car on Wednesday 15th April 2015 and subsequently seen by our vets at Pennard Vets Tonbridge for immediate veterinary care. After initial stabilisation and treatment Rufus seemed to be doing OK, but then, a day later, suddenly took a turn for the worse and became tetraplegic (paralysed on all four legs) which led him to be referred to North Downs Specialist Referrals, where he was admitted for a full neurological examination, including MRI scans of his brain. These scans showed that he was suffering from severe brain damage, characterised by multiple fluid accumulations, exactly like is seen in ‘Shaken Baby Syndrome’ in people. Officially this is called ‘Post-Traumatic Brain Disorder’, which basically means his brain doesn’t function properly after external damage and that it doesn’t control his limbs. Rufus was treated with medication to try and reduce the fluid build-up in his brain, but this worked only partially. At this stage Rufus’s owner was advised that the specialists couldn’t do much more for him and that he should come home to see if he would get better on his own. However, as he had made slight improvement during his stay at NDSR, the owner was advised that with intense physiotherapy Rufus might improve further. They also advised a re-assessment in two weeks’ time and said that if there was no real improvement by then, that euthanasia would have to be considered.

The owner enquired to see if the dog could possibly be hospitalised for 2 weeks at Pennard Vets, Sevenoaks, for intensive physiothetapy. One of the Tonbridge nurses then rang vet Pete van Dongen, at Sevenoaks, who has a

post-graduate qualification in canine rehabilitation, asking if anything could be done for him at all. Pete then rang the owner and confirmed that daily intensive rehabilitation (‘physiotherapy’) and hydrotherapy was possibly the only way in which any progress could be expected, if at all. Pete promised the owner he would try his best to get some improvement in Rufus’s situation and the owner brought him over for up to 14 days of intensive care hospitalisation, with twice daily physiotherapy exercises and daily hydrotherapy.

The initial rehabilitation assessment, which includes a full orthopaedic and neurological examination, was done by Pete, exactly one week after the accident. It showed that Rufus was only just able to lift his head and wag his tail, but his legs were totally uncontrolled. Some reflexes were present, but no conscious control at all. He could not sit or stand at all. He was continent though. On the basis of the findings Pete designed a specific rehabilitation programme. Treatments included frequently changing the side Rufus was lying on, checking for pressure spots, massage of all muscles, passive range of motion exercises on the legs, the use of an electric tooth brush on his feet (for extra nerve stimulation), balancing Rufus on a peanut physio ball and much more.

This rehab treatment would be performed by two of the Sevenoaks trainee nurses, who were specifically instructed in what to do with Rufus, using a checklist. Becca Cranham and Hannah Maskell were chosen as

the main nurses for this important task, as they are very enthusiastic and conscientious nurses. Other nurses also helped with Rufus’s care, especially Lauren Styles. They would report back to Pete on a daily basis. Kayleigh Bennett, our qualified hydro-therapist, would be in charge of the daily hydrotherapy sessions, from the fourth day onwards. We also ordered a special full body harness for Rufus.

Rufus was a delight to work with, mainly because of his easy going nature and calm attitude. He let the nurses do everything without any complaints, from feeding and watering him, to putting on his harness and towel slings to take him outside on a regular basis, as well as doing the twice daily physio exercises. He took it all in his stride and was always ready with a big wag for anyone giving him any attention. Rufus’s owner came in nearly every day as well, for further stimulation.

The nurses kept an accurate record of any developments and progress, including taking photos and short videos daily. Soon we saw that Rufus started to make enormous progress! He was able to sit up and keep himself up on the second day already! He took to his exercise very well, especially the one where he would be placed on top of a ‘peanut physio ball’, which helps him to balance whilst taking the weight off his legs. He started to try and place his feet quickly and after a day or two he managed to do this correctly. He was, by now, also able to get himself in a sternal position from lying down flat and he was even able to support himself slightly when placed in a stand

Rufus

by Pete van Dongen, Drs(Utrecht), CertVR, MRCVS, CCRT. Pennard Vets, Sevenoaks

CASE STUDY


and supported by two people. He was clearly making fast progress.

On the 5th day he had his first hydrotherapy session and as soon as he was placed into the high level water he started to swim properly with his fore legs, whilst the rear legs were at least moving a bit too. We were so happy to see him making a good effort trying to swim, as this meant he was controlling all four of his legs. After the short swim (he was still getting tired quickly) he managed to stand up for his shower and drying. We were so happy! Later that evening he even managed to actually stand on his own 4 legs, un-aided. This was a first for him. And only after 5 days.

The very next day, day 6, he managed again to stand un-aided, and now for a longer period too. He also made his first actual step with his left hind leg, which was another breakthrough. Later that day he had his second hydrotherapy session, in which he started to swim even better than the previous day! He now really powered with his front legs and started to use his rear legs properly as well. Day by day Rufus was starting to become a normal dog again, regaining normal function, step by step.

Then, the next day, day 7, we seemed to have an initial little set back, as he was starting to get a bit nervous in the hydrotherapy treadmill, and swimming less well than before. But he was still able to stand for himself, for a little while.

The next day, day 8, was again a slight disappointment with regard to the swimming. He seemed to have taken a dislike to it by now and we had to change tactics. We were now going to try walking him in lower water next time and see how that goes. However, on the same day he managed to actually walk for himself, only a few steps, and with some hesitation, but walking nevertheless! He had a lot of encouragement from our dedicated nurses, but he did the steps himself and it was a true victory. Both our nurses and the owner had tears in their eyes

when Rufus did his first steps after more than a week of not being able to do anything like that at all!

By day 9 we started to do more outside walking, being supported and making sure the foot placement was correct at all times. Hydrotherapy now consisted of treadmill walking with water up to his shoulder joint for about 90% buoyancy but a next to normal walking gait pattern. We also started to change the peanut work, by re-introducing a wobble cushion for landing his front legs on, to enhance the feedback from his feet to his brain. The idea of this was to improve proprioception and normal gaiting.

On day 10 Rufus managed to actually

walk out to the outside run, and back again, on his own. He was still doing very well during his physio sessions and was getting ever better during hydrotherapy again. He was making so much progress! Very rewarding, both for us and the owner, and, most importantly, for Rufus himself. The nurses rewarded Rufus with a carrot, his favourite treat.

Over the next few days Rufus continued to make great progress on a daily basis. He was able to ‘give a paw’ on day 11, walk freely on the artificial grass outside for more than 10 minutes on day 12, and on day 13 he managed to wee and poo outside, on his own, keeping himself up in a crouched position.

CASE STUDY


On day 16 we devised a new exercise programme for Rufus, now including stepping over low cavaletti, pushing him from side to side, doing three legged stances and much more! Again, he took it all in his stride and was well humoured as ever! He was still a delight to work with.

After discussion with Rufus’s owner we decided that it was now time for Rufus to go home and spend at least the weekend with his own family. Within just over 2 weeks, Rufus had gone from a totally paralysed dog to one that was standing, walking, wagging and weeing and enjoying a decent quality of life, due to the enormous efforts of our nurses, vet and hydro-therapist, a well-designed physiotherapy and hydrotherapy programme and a huge effort on Rufus’s part too! This case clearly shows that with the best possible treatment, based on solid science and knowledge, massive improvements can be achieved, even if the outcome looks bleak at the start. We are so proud to be able to offer all this at our veterinary practice, to enhance and improve the quality of life for our patients.

Pete van Dongen is a Clinical Director at Pennard Vets and a senior vet with 25 years of experience. He holds a Certificate in Veterinary Radiology. aHe is also a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist and has a long experience in agility, as competitor, judge and instructor: Pete was Crufts Agility winner in 2001 and he was the British Team Vet for the Agility World Championships 9 times. Pete is particularly interested in surgery, radiology and rehabilitation. He lives in Borough Green, is married and has one cat, Rocky, and one dog, Sky. His main interests outside of work is travel and he has visited all 7 continents. He does frequent charity treks and is a regular triathlete.

CASE STUDY


Bioflow

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Magnetic Therapy for Dogs, Cats and Horses

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Animal_Therapy_Ad.indd 1 22/06/2015 14:23

PRODUCT PROFILE

MAGNETIC THERAPY is the application of a magnetic field to a living tissue. It has been used for thousands of years, with the first documented use around 2500-3000 years BC. From this point, scientists continued to study the benefits of magnets and their use became more widely recognised.

A significant body of scientific evidence exists to support the claim that the use of magnets has a positive effect on a range of symptoms in animals, from joint pain to muscle stiffness and as an aid to recovery from injury or surgery.

The core of Bioflow technology lies with their patented Central Reverse Polarity field, a strong, multi-directional force of magnetism. Standard magnets have single polarity where as Central Reverse Polarity magnets have a unique arrangement of magnetic poles.

It is this unique yet effective technology that is tried and trusted by customers worldwide and sets Bioflow apart from the competition.

Bioflow’s product line for animals includes their hugely successful collars for dogs and cats, a dog bed, horse boots and new for 2015, a horse rug containing 40 magnets. They also have plans to introduce a further range of horse products later in the year, involving top equestrian riders in the design process.

Bioflow doesn’t claim to help every animal that suffers from pain. However what is evident is that many have experienced fantastic results using magnetic therapy and owners are secure in the knowledge that while magnets cannot do harm, they may change the quality of their pet’s life.

Bioflow are offering 10% off their pet range to Animal Therapy readers until 30.09.15. Enter code ANIMAL10 at the checkout at www.bioflowpets.com


EXCLUSIVE OFFER SAVE 10% WITH CODE ANIMAL10 AT WWW.BIOFLOWPETS.COM

Magnetic Therapy for Dogs, Cats and Horses

T R U S T E D b y P E T O W N E R S W O R l D W i D E A S A N A lT E R N A T i V E T O T R A D i T i O N A l M E D i C i N E

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P O W E R F U l N E O D y M i U M M A G N E T S F E A T U R i N G P A T E N T E D C E N T R A l R E V E R S E P O l A R i T y T E C H N O l O G y

Offer valid until 30th September 2015. Enter code ANIMAL10 at the checkout. Valid on Dog Collars, Dog bed, Cat Collar, Horse Rug and Horse boots.

bioflowpets www.bioflowpets.com

SAVE 10%

WITH CODE ANIMAL10

+ FREE UK DELIVERY

Animal_Therapy_Ad.indd 1 22/06/2015 14:23


THE ANIMAL PHYSIOTHERAPY DISPENSARY

The Animal Physiotherapy Dispensary is here to offer therapeutic and day to day care products to therapists and the discerning owner.

We pride ourselves on our customer service taking time to understand our customers’ needs and requirements, ensuring our customers are buying the right product.

For any further information please contact Georgia Keegan or one of her team below:

[email protected]

Tel: 07766 463099

01327 310909www.photizo.co.uk

A non-invasive treatmenttool promotes faster natural

healing and pain relief.Ideal for wounds and

musculoskeletal injuries

• Wounds - inc. bites & stings• Infected wounds• Musculoskeletal Injuries - muscle, tendon, ligament, cartilage & joints• Stiff joints• Elbow & Hip Dysplasia• Arthritis• Deep Tissue Bruising• General Bruising• Acral lick granulomas• Abscesses• Inflammation / Swelling• Haematomas• Skin Conditions• Stress Fractures• Mastitis• Acute & Chronic Pain

animal erapy w

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