29/07/2025
Being protective over a title may seem silly to some. But coming from a background of 15 years of being a ‘Physiotherapist’ with a title protected by law in the human world, to the veterinary world where the title can be used by essentially anybody is quite frightening.
Just so you know you’re safe in my level of qualification. With a BSc in Physiotherapy and an MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy. I am both ACPAT and RAMP registered and continue to further my knowledge with consistent CPD courses to make sure I am both evidence based and giving your animals the highest level of care that I am able to provide.
📲 Why Titles Matter in Animal Therapy: it’s easy to get in knots as to who is who!
🐕💡**“My dog had physio last week!”** Or was it massage? 🤔 🖐️
It’s easy to blur the lines, but when it comes to your animal’s care, words matter. Here’s why 👇
👩⚕️ Veterinary Physiotherapy is an evidence-based profession that requires:
✅ 3–5 years of university-level education
✅ Extensive clinical training
✅ Ongoing CPD and insurance
✅ Working under veterinary referral
✅ Professional body registration (NAVP, ACPAT, RAMP, etc.)
✅ the title of qualification must carry Veterinary Physiotherapy within it either at BSc or MSc
👐 On the other hand, Animal Sports Massage Therapists:
✅ Use soft tissue techniques to aid muscle comfort
✅ Some practitioners will be educated to degree level BSc and therefore have a comprehensive and applied understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics etc
✅ Can train via shorter courses (weeks to months)
✅ Generally use manual therapies
✅ Provide supportive, maintenance care and valuable complimentary care
✅ work as part of a wider team, especially when injury or performance issues arise
✅ Some practitioners join professional bodies & will commit to CDP
⚠️ Here’s the issue: The term “physio” is protected by law in human medicine, and increasingly being challenged in veterinary contexts too. One day the industry will get there and this will help alleviate this problem. Some massage therapists still use “physio” in their title which may unintentionally mislead owners or infringe boundaries.
🙏 We say this respectfully: every qualified professional has a place. Massage therapy is a fantastic tool when used appropriately. However, if someone is calling themselves a “Vet Physio” or “Animal Physiotherapist”, they should be qualified to that level.
🎯 Check credentials. Ask questions. Protect your pet.
Not sure who’s who? Do your homework, check qualifications, ask questions.
