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Osteopathic treatment for horses and dogs
Not all osteopaths treat animals. Michelle trained at the Centre for Animal Osteopathy with Stuart McGregor, and gained a post graduate diploma in Animal Osteopathy. She treats mainly horses and dogs, having owned and trained horses in the past. Dogs are treated in Warfield, Bracknell while horses are treated at your yard by appointment.
Some indications that an animal may benefit from treatment
In the horse
- gait unsoundness
- training problems
- some behavioural/temperment problems
- stiffness/uneveness on 1 rein
- unwilling to flex at the poll
- rearing/bucking (when doesn't usually)
- maintenance for elite performance horses
- maintenance for older horses
In the dog
- training problems
- underperformance, eg in agility dogs
- maintenance for elite dogs, eg greyhounds,agility dogs
- maintenace for older dogs, including those suffering with stiffness
A treatment session comprises an assessment (either initial assessment or an evaluation of progress), where gait, symmetry of musulature, and muscle imbalances are found and related to the owner's description of the problem. Treatment is made up of appropriate techniques - this may be soft tissue massage, articulation of limbs, shoulder or hips, and specific stretches for various areas all aimed at improving the function of the animal as a whole, and more specifically the area in trouble.
As an example a horse that appears to be stiff in the back, may well have a problem at the poll - and treatment of the occipito-atlantal joint (the poll) allows the horse to flex correctly and subsequently round his back in order to perform the dressage movements required.
It is well liked by animals - a dreamy expression is common! You will be advised on what exercise is suitable for the animal after a session.
Michelle also uses gentle cranio-sacral techniques on both horses and dogs
Massage of shortened muscles plays a large part in Michelle's treatment.
Please note, your veterinary surgeon will be contacted.