http://www.ellieb-vetphysio.com/

Ellie Brassey Veterinary Physiotherapist, Wiltshire, Berkshire, Hampshire & surroundings, Swindon Village (2026)

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Wiltshire, Berkshire, Hampshire & Surroundings

09/03/2026

Introducing youngsters to long reining and light lunging can be a really valuable part of their early development.

As an Equine physiotherapist, I also produce young horses, I often recommend starting with long lines before progressing to lunging. Long reining allows the horse to move forward in a more natural straight line rather than immediately working on a small circle. This reduces unnecessary strain on developing joints, tendons and ligaments, which is especially important in young horses whose musculoskeletal system is still maturing.

Working on two long lines also helps introduce steering, voice aids and contact in a calm and controlled way. It encourages the horse to develop balance, coordination and understanding of the aids before a rider is introduced. From a physiotherapy perspective, this type of work promotes correct posture, engagement of the core muscles and symmetrical muscle development, which supports long-term soundness.

Once a youngster understands the aids and has begun to develop strength and balance, short sessions of light lunging can be introduced. Used carefully, lunging can help improve rhythm, body awareness and proprioception while allowing us to monitor movement patterns from the ground.

The key is keeping sessions short, positive and progressive, allowing the young horse time to build strength gradually.

Correct groundwork like this lays the foundations for a horse that moves strongly, evenly and comfortably when they progress into ridden work.

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26/02/2026

🐎 What does “good movement” really look like? ✨

This image I created highlights how the whole horse works as one connected system not just legs moving forwards, but a chain of stability, strength and coordination from nose to tail.

🔹 Thoracolumbar stabilisation
A stable back allows force to travel smoothly from the hindquarters through the body, rather than being lost or absorbed as tension.

🔹 Cranial & caudal thoracic control
The thoracic sling and chest region help distribute load through the forelimbs while preventing collapse through the base of the neck and shoulder area.

🔹 Ribcage excursion (up, down & side-to-side)
Healthy movement includes the ribcage expanding and lifting, essential for balance, breathing efficiency and lateral work.

🔹 Abdominal sling & core stabilisation
True “core strength” in the horse supports the spine, improves posture and allows the horse to carry both rider and work more comfortably.

🔹 Hindlimb engagement & gluteal drive
Power starts behind engagement of the gluteals and hamstrings creates propulsion, impulsion and control, not just speed.

🔹 Pelvic mechanics (expand & support)
A functional pelvis allows the hind limbs to step under the body, supporting collection, transitions and longevity.

💡 Why this matters!

Restrictions, weakness or poor coordination in any of these areas can show up as stiffness, loss of performance, unevenness, behavioural changes or recurrent injury.

As an equine physiotherapist, my role is to identify where movement is breaking down, restore function, and give you practical exercises to support your horse between treatments.

Strong, supple, supported horses move better and feel better 🐴

18/02/2026

❄️ Winter isn’t an off-season for physiotherapy ❄️

When competition season is slow, it’s easy to think physiotherapy can too, but winter is just as important for both horses and dogs 🐴🐶

➡️ Reduced movement & turnout
Cold, wet conditions often mean less exercise, leading to stiffness, reduced joint mobility, and loss of muscle strength.

➡️ Cold temperatures affect tissues
Muscles and joints are less elastic in the cold, increasing the risk of strains, soreness, and compensatory movement patterns.

➡️ Small issues go unnoticed
Without the demands of competition or high-level training, subtle weaknesses or asymmetries can quietly worsen over winter.

➡️ Winter prep = summer success
Maintaining mobility, strength, and comfort now helps your horse or dog return to work sound, supple, and ready when spring arrives 🌱

✨ Physiotherapy in winter focuses on:
• Keeping joints moving freely
• Maintaining muscle tone
• Managing age-related stiffness
• Preventing injury before workload increases

👉 Think of winter physio as maintenance, not a luxury, it sets the foundation for a stronger, healthier season ahead.

HealthyHorse HealthyDog PerformanceStartsEarly

23/01/2026

🐎 Equine physiotherapy plays a vital role in keeping horses comfortable, mobile and performing at their best, whether they’re competition horses, racehorses, happy hackers or retirees. Regular physio helps maintain healthy movement, prevent injury, and support recovery from work-related strain or rehabilitation.

📸 Here I’m performing a forelimb flexion combined with gentle abduction, specifically targeting the pectoral muscles and shoulder region.

This technique:
• Encourages improved shoulder and forelimb range of motion
• Helps release tension and tightness through the chest and shoulder
• Supports better limb placement and symmetry
• Assists horses that may show shortened stride, stiffness, or uneven loading
• Promotes relaxation and body awareness

By improving mobility through the forelimb and chest, we can positively influence the horse’s way of going, comfort under saddle, and overall posture.

Every horse is an individual, and treatments are always tailored to what that horse needs on the day 🧡

31/12/2025

✨ Forever grateful as we step into 2026 ✨

As I look back on the year, I honestly can’t put into words how thankful I am for every single client — old and new & who has trusted me with their incredible dogs and horses.

From welcoming so many new faces, to continuing to support those who have been with me from the start, it has been a privilege to work across such a wide range of disciplines. From happy hackers and much-loved companions, to high-level competition horses and dogs, every single one has mattered just as much.

I’ve loved being part of rehabilitation journeys, building strength and confidence through tailored programmes, as well as carrying out MOTs and maintenance visits to keep our animals feeling their best all year round. Every dog wag, every horse nicker, every small improvement and big milestone has meant the world to me.

Thank you for your trust, your kindness, your support, and for allowing me to do a job I truly love. I genuinely care about each and every one of your animals, and I’m so grateful to be part of their journey.

Here’s to welcoming you all, and many more, into 2026. I can’t wait to continue supporting you and your wonderful horses and dogs in the year ahead 💙

Happy New Year 🐾🐎✨
Ellie
Ellie Brassey Veterinary Physiotherapy

24/12/2025

Happy Christmas 🎄 🧑‍🎄

As we come to the end of another incredible year, I just want to say a huge thank you to all of my wonderful clients, loyal friends, and the many new faces who have joined me recently. This year has been truly brilliant, with a growing number of horses and dogs benefiting from physiotherapy to improve their mobility, performance, comfort, and overall wellbeing. It has been a privilege to support your horses as they move more freely, build strength, and perform at their best, and to help your dogs stay happy, comfortable, and active in their daily lives. Your trust, commitment, and care for your animals mean so much, and I am incredibly grateful for every appointment, recommendation, and kind word. I wish you all a very happy Christmas filled with rest and joy, and a fun, healthy New Year. I’m really looking forward to continuing this journey with you and your animals as we move into 2026, helping them feel their best and supporting their long-term wellbeing every step of the way ✨🐴🐶

HorseHealth DogWellbeing EquineWellbeing PerformanceHorse HappyHorses HealthyDogs AnimalWellbeing ClientAppreciation SmallBusinessLove ChristmasWishes NewYear2026 LookingAhead PhysioLife SupportLocal

10/11/2025

Don’t Overlook Physiotherapy for Your Dog 🐶

Physiotherapy isn’t just for injured dogs , it’s about keeping them comfortable, mobile, and pain-free throughout life. From playful pups to golden oldies, every dog benefits from proactive care.

Here are a few everyday habits that can quietly cause discomfort or tension 👇

🐶

🔹 Collars and pulling on the lead
Constant pulling puts pressure on the neck, shoulders, and even the spine — sometimes leading to long-term tension or pain. Switching to a well-fitted harness spreads pressure evenly and helps protect muscles and joints.

🐶

🔹 Stairs and slippery floors
Running up and down stairs or losing grip on smooth floors can strain joints and muscles, especially in young dogs or those with arthritis or hip issues. Non-slip mats, ramps, or gentle guidance can make a big difference.

🐶

🔹 Jumping in and out of cars or onto furniture
That daily leap in and out of the car adds up! Repetitive jumping can jar the shoulders, elbows, and lower back. A small ramp or lift in/out support helps protect joints — especially in larger breeds or older dogs.

🐶

🔹 Overdoing exercise or swimming
While activity is great, sudden bursts of intense play, long walks, or endless swimming can fatigue muscles that aren’t conditioned for it. Build up gradually, and let rest days be part of your dog’s routine.

🐶

🔹 Feeding position matters
Dogs with neck, back, or shoulder discomfort can struggle when feeding from the floor. Using an adjustable raised feeder can help them eat more comfortably without over-stretching or hunching.

🐶

🔹 Weight and muscle balance
Extra weight or weak core muscles increase strain on joints and ligaments. Physiotherapy exercises help strengthen supporting muscles and improve balance, coordination, and posture.

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✨ Small changes in daily care can make a huge difference. Physiotherapy keeps dogs moving freely, builds strength, and helps prevent pain before it starts.

10/11/2025

Don’t Ignore Physiotherapy for Your Horse 🐴

Physiotherapy isn’t just for horses in pain it’s about keeping them comfortable, preventing issues, and helping them move at their best. Whether you’ve got a happy hacker or a top competitor, regular physio makes all the difference.

Here are a few everyday things that can quietly affect your horse’s body 👇

🔹 Haynet height matters!
Too high = constant neck and back tension.
Too low = overstretching.
Feed as close to the ground as safely possible to encourage natural movement and healthy topline muscles.

🔹 If your horse feels ‘fresh’, find the cause , not just the outlet.
Endless lunging won’t fix it. Check for pain, saddle fit, nutrition, turnout, or changes in routine. Fresh behaviour is communication, not defiance.

🔹 If your horse is spooky 👻 teach, don’t punish.
Tension restricts movement. Instead of forcing them past something scary, use calm, consistent exposure. Relaxation = correct movement.

🔹 Racehorses: pre-race care matters too.
Pre-race physio warms up muscles and improves stride length.
Post-race helps flush lactic acid and reduce inflammation.
Both are key for soundness and performance.

🔹 🛑 Laser therapy helps healing.
Low-level laser therapy speeds up recovery, improves blood flow, and reduces inflammation — great for wounds, scars, and soft tissue injuries.

🔹 For the greedy feeders.
Soak hay to lower sugars instead of cutting quantity.
Use small-holed nets or multiple feeding spots to slow eating and reduce neck strain.

✨ Every horse deserves to feel their best — and regular physiotherapy keeps them moving freely, performing happily, and staying sound for longer.

06/11/2025

🐎 From the Racetrack to a New Chapter 🦄

One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working with ex-racehorses as they transition into new careers from happy hackers, eventing and showing to simply enjoying life away from the track. 💙

This change is a huge physical and mental transformation. Racehorses are built and trained to run fast in straight lines at a young age, so when they start a new discipline, we’re asking their bodies to move, balance, and strengthen in completely new ways.

💫 Farriery & Foot Balance
Good hoof balance is the foundation of soundness. Many ex-racehorses need time and careful farriery to correct long toes or low heels and thin soles from their racing days. Balanced feet = a balanced body.

🪶 Saddle Fit & Posture
Many ex-racers start with a weak topline and strong underneck muscles. As they develop new strength and posture, their shape changes, so regular saddle checks are essential.

💆‍♀️ Physiotherapy Support 🙌 🛑
Physiotherapy helps release tension from old muscle patterns, build correct strength, and prevent compensations as they adapt. It supports:
• Core and topline development
• Flexibility and suppleness
• Comfort during retraining

🧠 The Mental Side
Leaving the track can be overwhelming. Calm, consistent handling, turnout and gentle physiotherapy helps these horses relax, trust, and settle into their new life.

🫱 Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Success in a second career takes a team: farrier, vet, physio, saddle fitter, dentist, nutritionist, and a patient rider / owner.

✨ With the right care, ex-racehorses become balanced, confident, and willing partners and are incredibly intelligent ready to shine in their next chapter.

🐎 Racehorses are often inexpensive to buy, with many looking for new homes once their racing days are over — but their story doesn’t end there. With the right care, patience, and support, they can truly shine in life after racing. 🌟

25/10/2025

🤚 🌟 Let’s Talk About Laser Therapy! 🌟 🛑

Did you know that Low Level Laser Therapy (Class 3B) can be an incredible addition to your horse and dog’s treatment plan? 🐴🐶✨

This gentle, non-invasive therapy uses light energy to stimulate cellular repair, reduce inflammation, and speed up healing — helping your animals feel and move their best.

💥 What it can help with:
• Soft tissue injuries (tendons, ligaments & muscles)
• Muscle soreness or tension
• Wound healing & scar tissue
• Joint pain or stiffness
• Chronic conditions such as arthritis
• Post-surgical recovery
• Windgalls in horses – by reducing inflammation, improving circulation, and supporting lymphatic drainage, laser therapy can help minimise swelling and discomfort around the fetlock area

🛑 Laser therapy works by increasing circulation, oxygen delivery, and collagen production, promoting faster recovery and improved comfort — whether it’s your competition horse, your working dog, or your much-loved companion.

It’s completely pain-free and safe, and most animals find it deeply relaxing (many even drift off during treatment! 😴).

If your horse or dog is recovering from an injury, struggling with stiffness, or you simply want to support their ongoing performance and wellbeing, this could be the perfect option.

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24/10/2025

❄️ Winter Wellness Tips for Your Horse ❄️
Cold weather can make our horses a little stiffer, but small daily habits can really help! 🐴💙

✨ Warm up before exercise – 10–15 mins of walking gets joints moving.
🧣 Keep them cosy, a well-fitting rug helps muscles stay warm.
🥕 Add gentle stretches after work to maintain flexibility.
🤕 Stable leg wraps
🚶‍♀️ Go for short in-hand walks on non-riding days.
💧 Encourage hydration, even slightly warmed water helps!
🖐️ DAYLIGHT physiotherapy appointments * Don’t forget the clocks change.

Little things make a big difference in keeping your horse supple, comfortable, and happy all winter long. 💙

*
Ellie Brassey Veterinary Physiotherapy

08/10/2025

🐴 “Animals Can’t Tell Us” “But They Do Speak”

As humans, we can describe our pain to one another we can say “my back aches” or “my shoulder feels tight others the spot and ‘ouch’.”
Our horses and dogs don’t have that luxury. They can’t tell us where it hurts instead, they show us through subtle changes in their behaviour, posture, and movement.

That’s where my role as an Animal physiotherapist comes in. My job is to have a trained eye, mind, and feel to recognise these signs to interpret what the horse or dog is trying to communicate through their body, and to respond in a way that’s gentle, professional, and effective.

🩶 How Horses Communicate Discomfort

Horses are incredibly expressive creatures once you know what to look for. Signs of pain or discomfort can appear as:
• 🐎 Changes in performance — reluctance to go forward, stiffness, or loss of impulsion
• Altered posture — uneven weight-bearing, standing awkwardly, or a dipped back
• 😣 Behavioural changes — becoming grumpy when tacked up, head tossing, tail swishing, or resistance to handling
• Subtle signs — a flick of the ear, tension around the eyes, or a change in facial expression
• 💤 Reduced enthusiasm — a horse that suddenly feels “flat” or less willing

These changes might seem small, but they often tell a much bigger story.

🖐️ My Role as a Physiotherapist

Through careful observation, palpation (feeling the muscles, joints, and soft tissues), and understanding of biomechanics, I aim to identify the source of discomfort, not just the symptoms.

Every treatment session is guided by the animals responses. The key is listening with the hands, the eyes, and empathy. My goal is always to make each animal feel more comfortable, balanced, and free in their movement.

Because while they can’t say, “I’m sore here,” their bodies are always communicating, we just have to know how to listen. 💙

Ellie Brassey Veterinary Physiotherapist

09/03/2026

26/02/2026

18/02/2026

23/01/2026

31/12/2025

24/12/2025

10/11/2025

10/11/2025

06/11/2025

25/10/2025

24/10/2025

08/10/2025

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