Frequently asked questions...
Read below for some frequently asked questions about veterinary physiotherapy. If you have a question about physiotherapy support that you can't see answered here, please get in touch. We are always more than happy to discuss any questions you might have
'My dog is nervous/agressive - can they have physiotherapy?'
Absolutely! We understand that some dogs may feel anxious in new environments or around unfamiliar people. Our approach is always gentle and tailored to your dog's individual needs, working at their pace to ensure they feel safe and comfortable.
To help your dog adjust, we welcome owners to bring their dog into the clinic for a Meet and Greet before their first session. This allows your dog to explore the space, meet the therapist, and begin to feel more at ease. If needed, we can also arrange desensitisation sessions to gradually build your dog’s confidence before starting a full physiotherapy assessment.
During treatment, we use positive reinforcement, patience, and a calm environment to help nervous dogs relax. Our goal is to create a stress-free experience that allows your dog to gain the benefits of physiotherapy while feeling secure and supported.
'How will you communicate with
my dog's vet?'
We believe in a collaborative approach to your dog’s care and work as part of their support team. With your consent, we will communicate directly with your vet to share relevant information, discuss any concerns, and ensure physiotherapy aligns with your dog’s overall treatment plan.
Beyond veterinary communication, we also stay in touch with other professionals involved in your dog’s wellbeing, such as behaviourists, hydrotherapists, and trainers. Keeping everyone informed allows us to provide the best possible care, ensuring consistency and a well-rounded approach to your dog’s health and recovery.
'Can I stay with my dog while they have treatment?'
Yes, absolutely! We encourage owners to stay with their dogs during physiotherapy sessions. Your presence can help your dog feel more relaxed and comfortable, especially if they are nervous or new to treatment.
Having you there also allows us to show you any exercises or techniques that can be continued at home to support your dog’s progress. Our goal is to create a calm and positive environment where both you and your dog feel at ease throughout the session.
What will an initial appointment look like?
Your dog’s first physiotherapy session will be tailored to their individual needs and designed to set them up for success. We start with a detailed discussion about their history, daily routine, and the reasons you’re seeking physiotherapy support. This helps us understand your concerns and any specific goals you have for your dog’s wellbeing.
Next, we carry out an assessment, including movement analysis and key measurements, to establish a baseline and track progress over time. This is followed by a hands-on assessment, working within your dog’s comfort level to evaluate their muscles, joints, and overall mobility.
Once we have a clear picture of your dog’s needs, we will set achievable goals and discuss a tailored treatment plan. You’ll receive guidance on what to expect, along with exercises or techniques to support your dog’s progress at home. Our aim is to create a positive and supportive experience that helps your dog move and feel better.
'Will this be covered on my dog's insurance?'
Many pet insurance policies do cover canine physiotherapy, but this depends on your provider and the specific terms of your policy. We recommend checking with your insurer to confirm whether physiotherapy is included and if a veterinary referral is required for coverage.
If your policy does cover treatment, we can provide detailed invoices and any necessary documentation to help with your claim. If you're unsure, we’re happy to guide you on the questions to ask your insurer to clarify your coverage.