Veterinary Physiotherapy

Veterinary physiotherapy applies the principles and techniques of physiotherapy to animals, helping them recover from injury, surgery, and a variety of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. Physiotherapy following veterinary referral can help animals recover from conditions such as back pain, sprains, strains, fractures, and sporting injuries. It can also be used following orthopaedic, neurological, or general surgery, as well as to improve biomechanics and athletic ability in working and performance animals.

The discipline requires a deep understanding of animal anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics alongside the manual and electrotherapy techniques used in treatment.

At Harper Adams University, this four-year full-time programme develops the theoretical knowledge and practical clinical skills needed to work as a veterinary physiotherapist. You will study the anatomy and physiology of companion animals, horses, and farm animals alongside pathology, clinical assessment, and a range of therapeutic techniques including manual therapy, hydrotherapy, and electrotherapy. Clinical placements are integrated throughout, giving you hands-on experience with animals in a range of settings under professional supervision.

The programme is designed to equip you for practice in a field that requires both scientific rigour and skilled, empathetic hands-on work. Entry typically requires around 120 UCAS tariff points.

Veterinary physiotherapy graduates work in private practice with companion animal owners and equine clients, with racing and performance horse yards, with veterinary practices and referral centres, and in sports and rehabilitation settings for working dogs. As awareness of the benefits of physiotherapy for animals grows, the profession is expanding, and those with formal degree-level qualifications are well placed to build a strong clinical career.