Animal Osteopathy

An animal osteopath treats animals that have sustained injuries or developed degenerative conditions, much like humans. Animals often respond beautifully to osteopathic treatment. Puppies and kittens can experience the same strains as humans, and sometimes more, due to overcrowding and the urgency of birth.

Just as a human baby may become irritable or develop feeding and digestive issues, animals can show similar signs. For this reason, I strongly advocate having young animals assessed by an osteopath, in the same way I would recommend assessment for a newborn baby.

Treating Animals Gently and Safely

One of the most remarkable aspects of treating animals is their response once they realise you are not going to hurt them. When they sense that the treatment is helping, they usually become very cooperative. Animals also respond extremely well to gentle techniques, and no “cracking” or forceful methods are required.

A colleague of mine, who works as an osteopathic consultant to zoos around the world, often says that elephants require the most subtle and minimal treatment of all. I grew up with cats and dogs in a farming community in Yorkshire, where I also treated a variety of farm animals.

Over the years, dogs, cats, the occasional horse, and even a goose have been patients of mine.

Assessment and Treatment Approach

An animal osteopath uses skills similar to those applied when treating humans. Each session begins with a detailed case history and careful observation of how the animal moves. However, much of the information comes from hands-on palpation.

Animals may present with muscle spasm, restricted vertebrae, sprained or arthritic joints, or scar tissue. Once an assessment is complete, treatment proceeds at the animal’s pace, building trust throughout the process. Techniques may include massage, passive movement, stretching, cranial techniques, and occasional gentle mobilisation.

If you have a pet or farm animal you would like me to assess, please get in touch so we can have an initial chat.

Disclaimer: No snakes — far too many vertebrae