Companion Animal Physical Rehabilitation

This foundational course provides an in-depth overview of the principles, goals, and applications of animal physical rehabilitation, with a focus on companion animals. Students will explore the history and scope of the field, the role of the Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) in the rehabilitation team, and the legal and ethical considerations involved in practice. The course introduces common orthopedic and neurological conditions that benefit from rehabilitation.

28 Hours

This intensive, hands-on module provides students with immersive practical experience in companion animal physical rehabilitation. Delivered over five days, students will participate in live patient assessments and treatments, integrating clinical skills and theoretical knowledge. Activities begin with an introduction to the college environment, a site tour, and foundational wet labs using therapeutic modalities on animals. Subsequent days focus on applied anatomy and physiology, patient assessment, and therapeutic technique implementation, with continued exposure to physical rehabilitation modalities.

The student would learn how to conduct a neurological and orthopedic examination on dogs in order to assess gait, posture and movement. Topics would include assessing range of motion and assigning a lameness score. A review of the importance of palpation in order to detect swellings and lumps will be emphasized. Videos or live demonstrations will be used to demonstrate normal and abnormal canine gaits.

56 Hours

This course provides a comprehensive overview of companion animal physical rehabilitation, combining foundational knowledge with industry perspectives and emerging trends. Through guest speakers, case studies, and interdisciplinary collaboration, students will explore the ethical considerations, communication strategies, and professional decision-making required in this growing field. Emphasizing innovation and real-world applications, the course prepares students to engage in rehabilitation practices that enhance animal well-being.

This course provides an overview of the anatomy and physiology of the skeletal system. An overview of medical terminology in respect to planes and description of directions will be discussed. This course provides a general overview of skeletal anatomy, with detailed focus on the bones and bone growth, muscles, and nerves of the forelimbs and hindlimbs, concluding with an examination of the musculoskeletal structures of the back.

This course provides an in-depth introduction to therapeutic modalities used in companion animal physical rehabilitation. Students will explore the history, scientific basis, and practical applications of various modalities, including massage therapy, laser therapy, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, hydrotherapy, and emerging techniques. The course emphasizes evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, and the integration of multiple modalities for optimal patient outcomes.

This course reviews the various modalities available for canine physical rehabilitation. These include techniques such as stretching, strengthening and proprioception exercises, application of heat and cold packs, analgesics and massage.

The pathophysiology of pain is covered in depth in this course. Pain sensation, transduction, transmission and perception are discussed, together with ways by which pain pathways can be interrupted. The complementary role of analgesics in contributing to successful companion animal rehabilitation is explored. Students learn about the benefits and risks of specific analgesics that a veterinarian may prescribe to companion animals.

28 Hours

This field placement provides students with supervised, hands-on experience in a professional rehabilitation setting. Students will apply their knowledge of various rehabilitation techniques, assess patient conditions, implement treatment plans, and refine their clinical skills in real-world scenarios. Emphasis is placed on specialized therapeutic modalities, including Laser Therapy, Hydrotherapy/Aquatherapy, Therapeutic Ultrasound, Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy, Electrical Stimulation Therapy, and Shockwave therapy.

This continued course builds on foundational knowledge by exploring real-world applications of companion animal physical rehabilitation through case studies, guest lectures, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Students will critically examine ethical considerations, client communication, and professional decision-making as they navigate complex rehabilitation scenarios. By analyzing diverse clinical cases, students will develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed to contribute effectively in rehabilitation settings.

The pathophysiology of common neurologic and orthopedic conditions is covered. Conditions that accompany ageing in canines are covered in detail. Common therapies that may be used in the rehabilitation of each condition will be discussed and students will design physical rehabilitation protocols and treatment schedules based on individual case details.

42 Hours