About Golden Vet Physio
Olivia Pauling
BSc (Hons) Veterinary Physiotherapist & L3 Cert Small Animal Hydrotherapist
Golden Vet Physio is owned by Olivia Pauling. Olivia Graduated from Harper Adams University in 2022 with a 2:1 degree in Veterinary Physiotherapy. After a placement year at university, working in an equine rehabilitation yard and canine hydrotherapy centre, she developed a love and interest in hydrotherapy. After graduating, she completed her Level 3 Certificate in Small Animal Hydrotherapy, working with a range of case studies and completing advanced treadmill techniques. Additionally, she completed an award in Elephant Studies after an ongoing interest since her time in Thailand with the rescued Elephants and producing a research project on 'The Phajaan Process'.
Since graduating, she has joined the team at Classic Physiotherapy, providing mobile services across Oxfordshire and surrounding areas for both canine and equine patients. She treats a diverse range of cases, including cruciate ruptures, elbow and hip dysplasia, arthritis, luxating patella, and various neurological conditions.
Additionally, she serves as the in-house Veterinary Physiotherapist at Medivet Woodstock, assisting in the rehabilitation and follow-up care of post-operative patients and elderly animals requiring maintenance physiotherapy to enhance comfort and mobility. She offers owners guidance on supporting their companions through recovery, emphasising the significant impact that focused at-home care between sessions can have on their animal's rehabilitation.
Olivia is a member to the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP), ensuring the highest quality of treatment and promoting effective and safe practice in all elements of Veterinary Physiotherapy. As a requirement of this, Olivia completes CPD to continue the development of her knowledge and skills to ensure she is up to date with any new techniques and research.
Alongside work, Olivia spends her time with her golden retriever, working cocker spaniel and retired show pony, and aims to return to the showing and dressage world as an adult.
Aims of a Veterinary Physiotherapist:
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Alleviate pain and discomfort
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Restore and enhance mobility
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Strengthen muscles and improve coordination
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Support recovery from injuries and surgeries
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Enhance overall physical function and quality of life
Key Responsibilities:
Assessment: Evaluating the physical condition, movement patterns, posture, and muscle function to identify abnormalities or asymmetries.
Treatment Planning: To develop tailored therapy programs based on veterinary diagnosis and individual needs.
Rehabilitation: Assisting in recovery from orthopaedic or neurological injuries using techniques like massage, stretching, hydrotherapy, and exercise therapy.
Pain Management: Using methods such as electrotherapy or manual therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.
Support for Chronic Conditions: Helping animals manage conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia to maintain function and comfort.
Owner Education: Instructing pet owners on home exercises, handling, and lifestyle adaptations for continued care.
For Vets:
Collaborative Role: Physiotherapists work alongside vets, not independently of them, using their referral and continued communication to ensure each client gets the best care possible.
Complementary Care: Physiotherapy supports medical or surgical treatment plans, helping with faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
Scope of Practice: Physio's do not diagnose medical conditions but assess movement and function to provide therapeutic interventions.
Specialised Knowledge: Qualified veterinary physiotherapists are trained in anatomy, biomechanics, pathology, and a range of physical therapies tailored to animals.
Referral Benefits: Referring to a physiotherapist can:
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Enhance post-operative outcomes (e.g., TPLO, spinal surgeries)
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Manage chronic conditions like arthritis
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Prevent injury in working or sporting animals
For Owners:
Not Just for Injuries: Physiotherapists can help with age-related issues, obesity management, athletic conditioning, and even pain from everyday wear and tear.
Safe & Tailored Care: Treatments are customised to your pet’s needs and always guided by veterinary input. Techniques are gentle and well-monitored.
Ongoing Support: You’ll often be given home exercises or lifestyle changes to maintain progress between sessions.
Clear Qualifications Matter: Look for practitioners registered with recognised professional bodies (like RAMP), ensuring they are properly trained and insured.
Holistic Impact: Physiotherapy often improves not only physical function but also confidence, behaviour, and overall well-being.