1. Referral & History Gathering

• Referral: Usually comes from the primary vet, especially if there’s a diagnosed condition (e.g., arthritis, cruciate injury, post-op).

• Medical records reviewed: Including diagnosis, imaging, surgery notes, medications.

• Owner interview: Lifestyle, activity level, changes in behaviour, pain signs, previous injuries, current medications, and goals.​

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2. Observation & Gait Assessment

• Visual observation: Dog is watched walking, trotting, and turning in both directions (indoors and/or on different surfaces).

• Video analysis (sometimes): To review movement patterns more closely.

• Look for: Lameness, asymmetry, stiffness, reluctance to bear weight, abnormal posture.

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3. Physical Assessment

• Palpation: Checking for muscle tightness, atrophy, pain, swelling, temperature changes.

• Joint range of motion: Passive movement of limbs and spine to assess flexibility and restrictions.

• Muscle testing: Checking strength, tone, and any compensatory use.

• Neurological screening: Reflexes, proprioception, coordination (if relevant).

• Pain assessment: Using standardised pain scoring tools.

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4. Initial Report & Plan Creation

• Diagnosis (functional/physiotherapeutic): Not replacing the vet’s medical diagnosis, but defining the functional impairments (e.g., decreased ROM, muscle imbalance).

• Short & long-term goals: Based on condition and owner's input (e.g., return to agility, reduce pain, support weight loss).

• Custom treatment plan: Tailored to the dog’s needs, often combining multiple techniques.

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5. First Treatment Session

May include:

• Manual therapy: Massage, myofascial release, stretching.

• Electrotherapy: PEMF, laser, TENS, NMES, etc., depending on condition.

• Therapeutic exercises: Gentle strength-building, weight-shifting, balance work.

• Hydrotherapy (if available): Treadmill or pool introduction if safe and applicable.

• Home advice: Simple exercises, environmental changes, activity restrictions.

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6. Owner Education & Follow-Up

• Exercise plan for home (clear and achievable).

• Monitoring pain or progress: How to tell if dog is improving or struggling.

• Next appointment scheduled: Often weekly or biweekly initially.

• Communication with vet: Report sent back outlining findings and plan.