Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of Veterinary Physiotherapy or McTimoney Chiropractic?
There are a range of reasons why your dog or horse might benefit from vet physio or McTimoney chiropractic services:
Restore, maintain or improve joint Range of Movement
Alleviate / reduce pain caused by surgery or medical problems
Improve gait biomechanics
Improve, maintain or restore muscle strength and mobility
Increase flexibility
Aid recovery from neurological problems
Improve proprioception and sensory awareness
Do I need a vet’s referral to see a Veterinary Physiotherapist or McTimoney Chiropractor?
The 1966 Veterinary Surgeons Act states, that with certain exceptions, only veterinary surgeons are permitted to make a diagnosis and treat animals.
One of the exceptions is that animals may be treated by physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic following referral from a vet.
I seek veterinary consent on your behalf, before I see your dog or horse, or I may have had a direct referral already from them.
Why should I use an NAVP member?
The National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists was formed back in 1985 to promote the professional practice of veterinary physiotherapy.
NAVP aims to ensure that the highest standards of veterinary physiotherapy care will be delivered to animals by linking a strong foundation of scientific knowledge with clinical practice and continued research.
As an NAVP member, you can be assured that I:
Have qualified via a recognised accredited training programme
Carry appropriate professional and public liability insurance
Work in accordance with current legislation alongside your veterinary surgeon, and also in close conjunction with members of other related professions such as farriers, saddle fitters, trainers and so on.
Am required to work within a professional code of conduct and ethics
Am required to continually maintain and enhance my skills post-qualification by completing appropriate programmes of continued professional development (CPD) annually in order to be able to maintain my membership.
Why should I use a McTimoney Animal Association (MAA) member?
The MAA sets professional standards, maintains a professional code of ethics, regulates members’ full indemnity insurance and continual professional development to ensure safe and effective therapeutic treatment and welfare of animals.
All members have completed the Post Graduate Diploma or Master of Science degree (MSc) in Animal Manipulation from the McTimoney Chiropractic College. Our members work in accordance with the Veterinary Surgeons Act, and closely with vets to ensure a safe, appropriate and effective treatment for every animal.
By choosing an MAA practitioner, you are choosing excellence.
What is Animal Health Professions’ Register (AHPR)?
I am passionate about providing the best service that I can possibly provide which is why I am constantly looking to further my knowledge.
I am a member of AHPR as I believe in what they are aiming to do
The aim of AHPR is to raise standards in the industry, and to provide the assurance and clarity to veterinary surgeons and animal owners that they can safely refer to, and work alongside, AHPR-registered allied professionals.
What should I expect from a treatment?
I will take a detailed history of your horse's or dog's problem and ask you about any relevant past medical history.
During the initial assessment I observe standing posture, dynamic movement and symmetry. I may also see the horse lunged or ridden. This is then followed by a physical examination, palpating muscles, soft tissues, alignment of spine and pelvis and assessing joint range of movement.
Assessment findings will then be discussed with you and a treatment plan will be decided upon.
Will insurance cover Physiotherapy and McTimoney Chiropractic?
Many insurance companies provide cover for veterinary physiotherapy and complementary therapies. Contact your health insurance company prior to commencing treatment to confirm what benefits are available to your animal as policies vary. A veterinary referral is required (which I will obtain on your behalf) before treatment can begin.