Alpha Animal Physiotherapy Ltd

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Alpha Animal Physiotherapy Ltd

Veterinary Physiotherapy services covering primarily Staffordshire as well as some parts of Derbyshire, Shropshire and the West Midlands.

Rhiannon Kelsall BSc (Hons) Vet Phys, MNAVP
MSc Equine Performance, Health and Welfare

Fully qualified, insured and mobile Veterinary Physiotherapy and Hoof Boot Fitting services. Assessments are completed for each patient to identify areas of weakness/tightness and restrictions. Treatments are tailored to the individual, this may involve manual therapy such as massage and stretching, remedial ex

ercise prescription and the use of electrotherapies. Veterinary consent/referral will be required if your animal has an ongoing heath condition, I will work alongside your veterinary practice and other professionals to ensure your animal receives an optimum service. We will treat other animals too so do not hesitate to contact us to discuss options. If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact us at Alpha Animal Physiotherapy Ltd.

07/04/2025

I’ve been a little quiet on my social media last week as I have had a new addition! 🐶🐕🐾

Meet Gino - my Italian Greyhound 🥰he was part of my sisters little crew but with three young ones and a busy work life he has now moved in with me! ❤️

It’s taken some adjusting but he seems to have settled nicely. He’s not sure about his horsey brothers and sisters but they are very curious about him!

29/03/2025

🐴👢Scoot Boot Saturday👢🐴

✨ Types of Scoot Boots:
• Classic Scoot Boots: Perfect for everyday riding and general use.
• Enduro Scoot Boots: Designed for endurance riding and long-distance adventures.
• TheraRide Boots: Ideal for therapeutic use and horses with sensitive hooves.
• Slim Fit Scoot Boots: Tailored for horses with narrower hooves.

💡 Benefits of Scoot Boots:
• Mimic the natural movement of a horse’s hoof for ultimate comfort.
• Provide excellent traction on all terrains, from muddy trails to rocky paths.
• Lightweight and durable, ensuring your horse stays comfortable and protected.
• Easy to clean and maintain—just rinse and go!
• Versatile for various equestrian disciplines, from trail riding to dressage.

🐎 Suitable for:
• Horses transitioning to barefoot.
• Horses with sensitive or thin soles.
• Gaited horses needing extra comfort and support.
• Older horses requiring shock absorption to maintain mobility.
• Horses of all shapes and sizes, thanks to the wide range of sizes and styles available.

Book in for a Hoof Boot Fitting with us today!
Tel: 07549569287 Email: [email protected] or drop me a dm 😊

27/03/2025

🐾 Understanding Osteoarthritis in Dogs: Signs, Prevention, and Management 🐾

Osteoarthritis is a common condition in dogs that affects their joints, causing pain and reduced mobility. Whilst it is more common in older dogs, unfortunately this does not mean that dogs of other ages will not be affected. It can be caused by poorly formed joints (joint incongruity), trauma, instability (e.g. cruciate ligament damage/rupture), developmental defects (e.g. osteochondrosis) and is highly prevalent in canine populations.

✨ Common Signs and Symptoms:
• Stiffness, especially after rest or exercise.
• Limping or lameness.
• Reluctance to jump, climb stairs, or play.
• Swelling or tenderness in the joints.
• Behavioural changes like irritability or lethargy.
• Difficulty getting up or lying down.

🛠️ Preventative Measures:
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts stress on joints and worsens inflammation.
• Regular, Low-Impact Exercise: Activities like swimming or gentle walks can keep joints flexible without overstraining them.
• Balanced Diet: Ensure your dog gets essential nutrients and consider joint supplements like glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Early Detection: Regular vet check-ups can catch early signs of joint issues before they progress.

🩺 Management Tips:
• Pain Relief: Anti-inflammatory medications prescribed by your vet can reduce pain and swelling.
• Physical Therapy: Hydrotherapy and physiotherapy can improve mobility and relieve discomfort.
• Comfortable Environment: Provide soft bedding and avoid slippery floors to reduce strain on joints.
• Controlled Activity: Short, frequent walks are better than long, strenuous ones.

By staying proactive and attentive to your dog's needs, you can help them live a comfortable and happy life despite osteoarthritis. 🐶❤️Book your dog in for a physiotherapy session today and find out more ways to make them comfortable!
Tel: 07549569287 Email: [email protected]

For more information check out Canine Arthritis Management (CAM): https://caninearthritis.co.uk/
Photo: Adobe Stock

26/03/2025

🐾🧠 Are you optimising your dogs mental well-being? 🧠🐾

Just like us, dogs thrive when their minds are active and engaged. Mental stimulation is crucial for your furry friend's overall well-being—keeping boredom at bay, reducing stress, and improving their behavior. Here's why it matters and how you can make their days more enriching!

✨ Why Mental Stimulation is Important:
• Boredom Buster: It helps prevent destructive behaviour’s that often stem from boredom.
• Stress Reduction: A mentally stimulated dog is a calm and content dog.
• Sharpens the Mind: Mental exercises keep their brains healthy and responsive, especially as they age.
• Builds Your Bond: Interactive games and activities strengthen your relationship.

🛠️ How to Mentally Stimulate Your Dog:
• Puzzle Toys & Treat Dispensers: Encourage problem-solving with interactive toys that reward their efforts with treats.
• Training Time: Teach new tricks or reinforce old ones—it’s fun and mentally stimulating!
• Scent Games: Dogs love using their noses! Play hide-and-seek with treats or toys for some sniffing fun.
• Exploratory Walks: Change up your walking route or let them sniff and explore new environments.
• Socialisation: Arrange playdates with other dogs or take them to dog-friendly events.

By dedicating time to their mental health, you'll have a happier, healthier, and more balanced pup. 🐕💖

Image: Adobe Stock

24/03/2025

🐾💪 Muscle Monday: Superficial Pectoral Muscles in Dogs! 💪🐾

The superficial pectoral muscles in dogs may not be the biggest, but they pack a punch when it comes to mobility and strength! Image shows approximate location. These muscles, located in the chest, are pivotal for a dog's everyday movements and playtime agility. Here's why they're important and how you can care for them:

Role of Superficial Pectoral Muscles:

🌟Aid in moving the forelimbs inward (adduction), forward and backwards, essential for stable and efficient movement.
🌟Contribute to the strength and flexibility needed for activities like running, jumping, and climbing.
🌟Help to stabilize the shoulders and provide support during weight-bearing activities.

Common Issues or Injuries: The superficial pectoral muscles can face strain or injury, especially in active or working dogs. Keep an eye out for:

🩺Tenderness or swelling in the chest region.
🩺Reluctance to engage in physical activities like running or jumping.
🩺Signs of pain when being touched or groomed around the chest area.

Prevention & Care Tips:

🛠️Regular warm-ups before vigorous exercise can reduce the risk of strain.
🛠️Gentle stretching and massage can keep these muscles flexible and relaxed.
🛠️Ensure your dog maintains a healthy weight to prevent unnecessary stress on the muscles.

By keeping these chest muscles strong and healthy, your canine companion will enjoy a happy, active life! 🐶❤️

Image: Adobe Stock (edited)

24/03/2025

🐴💪 Muscle Monday: Superficial Pectoral Muscles in Horses! 💪🐴

The superficial pectoral muscles, located on the front of your horse's chest, are essential for smooth and powerful movement. Here's why they matter and how to keep them healthy:

Role of Superficial Pectoral Muscles:

🌟Play a key role in protracting, retracting and adducting the forelimbs, helping with forward motion and balance.
🌟Stabilise the front end, ensuring your horse maintains control during turns, stops, and changes in terrain.

Common Issues or Injuries: Despite their strength, these muscles are prone to overuse and strain, especially in horses involved in high-impact activities like jumping or pulling. Be mindful of:

🩺Soreness or swelling in the chest area.
🩺Reluctance to move forward or extend the front limbs.
🩺Pain during grooming or saddling over the chest.

Prevention & Maintenance Tips:

🛠️Incorporate warm-up and cool-down routines into your horse's exercise regimen.
🛠️Regularly stretch and massage the chest to improve flexibility and relieve tension.
🛠️Ensure proper fitting tack to avoid unnecessary strain on these muscles.

Healthy superficial pectoral muscles mean a happy, strong, and active horse. Let's keep those chest muscles in peak condition! 🐎❤️

23/03/2025

🐾🎉 Happy National Puppy Day! 🎉🐾

Today, we celebrate the little furballs who fill our lives with endless love, laughter, and cuddles! 🐶💖 Whether they're bounding through the park, wagging their tails at the speed of light, or giving us those irresistible puppy-dog eyes, puppies remind us of the pure joy in life.
Drop a picture of your precious pooch in the comments and tell us a little about them! 💕🐾🐕

21/03/2025

🐴 Cavallo Hoof Boots! 🐴

Today we are covering the Cavello Hoof Boot range 🐎

🌟Various types: Trek Hoof Boot, Big Hoof Boot (for draught types), Cute Little Boots, EntryLevel Boot, Simple Hoof Boot, Sport Boot and Trek Pro Hoof Boot
🌟Total Comfort System: Designed with your horse's comfort in mind, ideal for those with chronic pain: hoof sensitivity, injury rehab, abscesses, navicular, laminitis/founder, sole bruising, contracted heels.
🌟Durability: Made from heavy-duty industrial-grade 1680 Denier Nylon, these boots are built to last. The replaceable Velcro closure system ensures a secure fit and extends the life of the boots.
🌟Versatility: Whether you're new to barefoot or need boots for rehabilitation and therapeutic purposes, Cavallo has you covered. Their Entry Level Boot (ELB) is perfect for those making the transition to barefoot or needing occasional protection.
🌟Innovative Design: Many of the Cavallo boots feature built-in side drainage slots that allow water, mud, and sand to easily drain out, keeping your horse's hooves dry and comfortable.
🌟Secure Fit: The unique front-closure system ensures an extra-snug fit, making these boots ideal for finer-boned horses.

🐎 If you think these sound ideal for your horse, drop me a message and we can schedule a fitting appointment.🐎

19/03/2025

🤓WORK FROM HOME WEDNESDAY🤓

When I’m not busy treating your lovely animals or fitting hoof boots I’m still keeping busy. If it’s not the usual things that go along with running a business, it may be writing up summary reports for owners and exercise plans, writing up vet reports to keep veterinary practices up to date or completing CPD.

Continued Professional Development (CPD) is essential for staying updated with the latest advancements in veterinary physiotherapy. It helps us enhance our knowledge, develop new skills, and provide the best care for our animal patients. By committing to ongoing learning, we ensure that we can offer the highest standard of care to our clients. 🌟

Feel free to share your thoughts or ask any questions in the comments below! 😊

Image Credit: Adobe Stock

17/03/2025

💪MUSCLE MONDAY - Equine💪

The triceps brachii muscle is located in your horse's upper limb, running along the back of the forelimb, from the shoulder to the elbow. It is divided into two parts, the ‘long head’ and the ‘lateral head’. This powerful muscle group is crucial for many of your horse's movements. Image shows approximate location.

Role of the Triceps Muscle:
🐴Elbow Extension AND Shoulder Flexion: Vital for forward movement and weight-bearing.
🐴Forelimb Stability: It helps stabilize the forelimb during standing and various activities, providing strength and support.
🐴Performance and Athleticism: Key to a horse's performance, especially in activities like jumping, racing, and dressage, where powerful and controlled movements are essential.

Symptoms of an Issue with the Triceps Muscle:
It's important to be aware of signs that might indicate a problem with the triceps muscle:
🐎Lameness: Your horse may show signs of lameness or favour one forelimb over the other.
🐎Reduced Range of Motion: Difficulty extending the elbow or reduced flexibility in the forelimb.
🐎Swelling: Visible swelling or heat in the triceps area.
🐎Pain and Sensitivity: Signs of discomfort when the muscle is touched or during movement.
🐎Stiffness: Especially noticeable after rest or during colder weather.
🐎Muscle Changes: Gradual weakening and loss of muscle mass due to disuse or injury or tightness or a ‘stringy’ feel to the area which may be due to compensation for other issues.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's crucial to seek veterinary advice promptly. Early intervention can help manage the issue and prevent further complications.

Image Credit: Adobe Stock (edited)

17/03/2025

💪MUSCLE MONDAY - Canine 💪
The triceps muscle is located in the upper limb of your dogs front leg, it is divided into the ‘long head’ and the ‘lateral head’. Image shows approximate location.

Function:
🐶Extension of the Elbow Joint AND Flexion of shoulder joint: Essential for activities like running, jumping, and climbing.
🐶Weight-Bearing: Supports your dog when standing and during various movements.
🐶Passive Stabilization: Helps stabilize the elbow joint, ensuring smooth and controlled motions.

Signs of an Issue with the Triceps Muscle:
It's important to be aware of potential issues with your dog's triceps muscle. Here are some common signs:
🐾Limping or Lameness: Difficulty putting weight on the affected leg or favouring one leg.
🐾Stiffness: Noticeable stiffness, especially after resting or during cold weather.
🐾Pain and Sensitivity: Signs of discomfort when the muscle is touched or during movement.
🐾Swelling: Visible swelling in the upper front leg area.
🐾Reduced Activity: Reluctance to exercise, play, or engage in usual activities.
🐾Muscle Changes: Gradual weakening and loss of muscle mass due to disuse or tightness of the muscle due to compensation for other issues.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's important to consult with a veterinary physiotherapist for a proper assessment and treatment plan; they may be required to refer to your veterinary practice. Early intervention can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

Image Credit: Adobe Stock (edited)

14/03/2025

Very interesting and important post! 🐴🐎

14/03/2025

🐴FLEX BOOT FRIDAY🐴

At Alpha Animal Physiotherapy Ltd, we also offer a ‘Hoof Boot Fitting’ service to determine the correct size, shape and brand of Hoof Boot for yours and your horses needs. One of these brands is ‘Flex Boots’, (which I have also bought for one of my own horses to transition him out of his shoes and provide additional support).

What Are Flex Boots?
🐎Lightweight and Comfortable: Designed to provide barefoot hoof protection without compromising comfort.
🐎Flexible Material: Allows natural hoof movement and proprioception, making horses more sure-footed on various terrains.
🐎Wide Size Range: Available in multiple sizes, including custom options, to ensure a perfect fit for every horse.

Benefits of Flex Boots
🫶Hoof Protection: Ideal for horses transitioning to barefoot or needing extra protection during rides.
🫶Versatility: Suitable for all terrains and equestrian disciplines, from trail riding to competitive sports.
🫶Durability: Made with high-quality materials to withstand different weather conditions and terrains.
🫶Horse Welfare: Prioritizes the horse's comfort and hoof health, reducing the risk of rubbing or discomfort.

Why Choose Flex Boots?
✨Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain.
✨Ethical Manufacturing: Produced in Finland with a focus on sustainability and minimizing carbon footprint.
✨Trusted by Riders: Used successfully by equestrians worldwide for various activities.

Flex Boots are a great choice for horse owners looking for reliable and comfortable hoof protection. Book in today for a Hoof Boot Fitting or message for further details🐴✨

12/03/2025

🐾 Woof Wednesday: Spotlight on Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Issues in Dogs 🐾

Did you know that the Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) is one of the most commonly injured ligaments in dogs? This ligament, located in the knee (stifle) joint, plays a crucial role in stabilizing your dog's hind legs. Unfortunately, CCL injuries can lead to pain, reduced mobility, and even long-term arthritis.

Common Symptoms:
🐶Limping/Lameness: Dogs may favour one leg or struggle to put weight on the injured limb.
🐶Stiffness: Especially noticeable after resting or during the colder months.
🐶Swelling and Heat: Around the knee joint, which can be tender to the touch.
🐶Difficulty Rising or Jumping: Reduced ability to perform activities that require hind leg strength.
🐶Painful Gait: Dogs may display altered movement due to discomfort.
🐶Clicking Sound: In some cases, you might hear a clicking noise coming from the knee joint during movement.

If your dog is showing any of these signs, it's important to seek veterinary advice promptly.

How Veterinary Physiotherapy Can Help:
While surgical intervention is often necessary for severe CCL injuries, physiotherapy plays a critical role in recovery and ongoing management:

🐾Pain Relief: Techniques like therapeutic massage and laser therapy can help reduce pain and inflammation.
🐾Strengthening Exercises: Customized exercise plans are designed to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improving joint stability and overall mobility.
🐾Improved Flexibility: Stretching exercises can restore range of motion to the affected leg.
🐾Post-Surgery Rehabilitation: To help dogs regain strength and function after surgical repair, speeding up recovery and reducing the risk of further injury.
🐾Weight Management Guidance: Maintaining a healthy weight is key to reducing stress on the joint.

If you think your furry friend could benefit from veterinary physiotherapy, give us a call or send us a message today! 🐶💪

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

10/03/2025

💪MUSCLE MONDAY - Equine💪

The brachiocephalicus muscle in horses plays an important role in their movement and overall functionality. Image shows approximate location.

Head and Neck Movement:
💪This muscle is responsible for moving the head and neck. It allows the horse to flex and extend its neck, as well as turn its head from side to side.
Forelimb Movement:
💪Involved in the protraction of the forelimb, meaning it helps move the limb forward. This action is essential for walking, trotting, and other forms of locomotion.

Symptoms of tension in the brachiocephalicus:
🐴Stiffness in Neck and Shoulders: Difficulty in flexing or extending the neck, and resistance to turning the head.
🐴 Reduced Range of Motion: Limited movement in the forelimbs, affecting gait and overall mobility.
🐴Pain and Sensitivity: Tenderness when the area is touched, and signs of discomfort during grooming or saddling.
🐴Behavioural Changes: Reluctance to perform certain tasks, such as jumping or bending, and general irritability.
🐴Muscle Changes: Over time, the muscle may weaken and lose mass due to disuse, alternatively, it may feel hard or tight.

Causes:
🐎Lameness: During forelimb lameness, horses may tense this muscle alongside their omotransversarius muscle to help reduce pain and pressure through forelimbs.
🐎Injury/trauma: Such as from a fall or impact
🐎Unbalanced reins/rider

If you notice any of these symptoms in your horse, it's important to consult with a veterinary physiotherapist for a proper assessment and treatment plan and they may be required to refer to your veterinary practice. Early intervention can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. 🐴💪

Image Credit: Adobe Stock (edited)

10/03/2025

💪MUSCLE MONDAY - Canine💪

The brachiocephalicus muscle in the dog is located in the neck, this plays a crucial role in movement and overall functionality. Image shows approximate location; in the dog it is divided into two main parts.

Function:
🐶Head and Neck Movement: Helps with flexion and extension of the head and neck. Aids in lateral movement, allowing dogs to turn their heads side to side.

🐶Forelimb Movement: Involved in the protraction of the forelimb, meaning it helps extend the limb forward, which is essential for walking, running, and other activities.

Symptoms of tension in the brachiocephalicus:
🐾Neck and Shoulder Stiffness: Difficulty in moving the head and neck, and reluctance to turn or tilt the head.
🐾Lameness in Forelimbs: Limping or favouring one leg, and difficulty in walking or running.
🐾Pain and Sensitivity: Signs of pain when the area is touched, and discomfort during activities like playing or jumping.
🐾Behavioural Changes: Decreased activity levels, reluctance to exercise, and general lethargy.
🐾Muscle Changes: The muscle may weaken and lose mass over time, alternatively it may feel hard and tense.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it's important to consult with a veterinary physiotherapist for a proper assessment and treatment plan; they may be required to refer to your veterinary practice. Early intervention can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications. 🐕💪

Image Credit: Adobe Stock (edited)

08/03/2025

🌞 Good Morning, Pet Lovers! 🌞

Ever noticed how your furry friends stretch when they wake up? Whether it's a dog elongating their front paws or a horse reaching forward with their neck, this natural instinct is their way of waking up their muscles and getting ready for the day. Just like us, animals benefit greatly from a good stretch! 🐕🐴

Why Stretching Matters:
• Increases Flexibility: Stretching helps maintain muscle elasticity and joint flexibility, crucial for their overall mobility and agility.
• Improves Circulation: A good stretch enhances blood flow to muscles, providing them with the necessary nutrients and oxygen.
• Prevents Injuries: Regular stretching can help prevent muscle strains and injuries by keeping their muscles supple and strong.
• Reduces Stress: Stretching can be a calming activity that reduces stress and promotes relaxation.

How Owners Can Help:
• Guided Stretches: With the guidance of a professional, you can learn safe and effective stretching techniques tailored to your pet's needs.
• Bonding Time: Stretching sessions can be a wonderful bonding experience. It’s a moment to connect with your horse or dog and show them extra love and care.
• Complementary Care: Incorporating stretching into your pet's routine complements their physiotherapy sessions, enhancing the benefits and speeding up recovery from any injuries.

Benefits for Owners:
• Enhances Your Pet's Well-being: By helping your pet stretch, you’re actively contributing to their health and happiness.
• Early Detection: Regular hands-on interaction allows you to notice any unusual stiffness or discomfort early on, so you can seek timely veterinary advice.
• Strengthens Your Bond: Spending quality time assisting your pet with stretches builds a stronger emotional connection and trust between you and your pet.

Let’s start this week with some gentle stretches for our beloved animals. Feel free to share your stretching routines or ask any questions in the comments below!

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

07/03/2025

FRIEND FRIDAY!

Do you know a friend whose furry companion could benefit from our expert Veterinary Physiotherapy or Hoof Boot Fitting Service? Refer them to us, and both you and your friend will enjoy a 25% discount on your next session! 🐾🐶🐴

How It Works:
1. Refer a friend to our physiotherapy or Hoof Boot Fitting services.
2. Your friend books their first appointment and pays a 10% deposit.
3. Both you and your friend receive a 25% discount on your next session!
It's that simple! By referring a friend, you're not only helping their pet receive the best care but also saving on your own pet's treatments. It's a win-win for everyone!

Help us spread the word and continue our mission of enhancing animal health and well-being. Thank you for being a part of our community! ❤️

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

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