Osteopathic treatment for animals - Alison O'Dochartaigh
Horses and dogs (and other animals) can be susceptible to similar physical stresses and strains that affect humans. in the same way, the animals self-healing, self-regulating mechanism may become compromised and they may not be acting or performing in their normal way, and to their full potential. Osteopathic assessment using a highly developed sense of touch/palpation may be able to help identify any areas of tension and changes in tissue quality. Gentle, subtle osteopathic treatment may help the animal release any areas of tension and restore a better state of balance within the body.
In the treatment of animals, Osteopathy is a complementary form of treatment and does not take the place of veterinary care.
The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 states that permission must be granted from a registered veterinary surgeon, in some cases, before an animal can receive any complementary physical or manipulative therapy, including osteopathy. Any animal must be registered with a veterinary practice before Osteopathic treatment can be carried out.
If necessary Alison will send a consent form to your Veterinary Surgeon for them to sign before osteopathic treatment commences. If appropriate the animal’s problems and past medical history will be discussed with the Veterinary Surgeon prior to treatment. A written report can be sent, on request, following treatment.
Assessment would include taking a full case history including the presenting issues, past medical history, and aggravating and relieving factors. Alison would then observe the animal moving, followed by palpating their body, head and limbs, to assess joint movement and tissue quality to help her discover any changes in function within the animal's musculoskeletal system. Alison would discuss her findings with the owner and if she considered the animal suitable, then she would commence treatment. If she had any reservations about her findings then she would refer the animal back to the veterinary surgeon concerned for further investigations.
Please contact Alison on 07789 518356 or e-mail info@alisonodochartaighosteopath.com or Merlin on 07931 541948, to discuss individual cases, and whether osteopathy may help them.
Cardigan, Ceredigion