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FAQs

FAQ: FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How do I know if my animal needs Physio?

Animals are very unlikely to be verbal about their pain unless it is severe. Pain tends to mainfest itself as behavioural issues, movements, performance and in body language. Regular check ups or booking an appointment when you notice a change in your animal will allow us to work and treat and problem before it develops further.

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Animals who have recently suffered an injury or have undergone surgery can benefit from veterinary physiotherapy to enchance the healing process and have an advanced return to function.

 

Performance, elderly or active animals are suggested to have regular treatments to detect any subtle changes and compensations to the musculoskeletal system.

Do I need a Veterinary Consent for Physio and Laser?
 

Yes. In order to comply with the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, it is a legal requirement for Veterinary Physiotherapists to obtain consent from a qualified and registered Veterinary Surgeon before treating your pet.

You can either download the form below and get your vet to fill out the necessary areas OR I can send and speak to your vets directly, just give me a call.

Gaining consent also allows me to read all of your pets medical history and scans prior to our appointment, which helps tailor a treatment plan. 

How do I book an appointment?

Please contact me directly either by phone, email or through my contact page.  A veterinary referral will need to be signed by your vet prior treatment but I can obtain this from your vets after our conversations and booking.  

I don't know what therapist to choose and what qualifications to look for

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It can be challenging and confusing when you are trying to pick the right therapist for your pet. There are a lot of 'quick' qualifications and certificates out there a allow a person to practice under the title 'Veterinary Physiotherapist', as the title itself is not protected. 

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Registers such as NAVP, IRVAP, RAMP, ACPAT, mean that the person belonging to the register has undergone extensive and thorough training, usually a minimum of 4 years plus continuing CPD to keep up with current research and data. 

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Danielle has completed 6 years at university, achieves a minimum of 30 hours of continuing professional development (CPD) a year and belongs to the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP). Danielle has 7 years of experience, including performing physiotherapy in small animal hospitals and rescues. 

My animal is nervous/aggressive, can they stull have physiotherapy?

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Yes. Each case is independant, but there are numerous ways in which we can work with you and your pet to get them some treatment. Some of the ways in which may help including, scheduling more time, having the visit in your home, or outside your home, talking you through and demoing on my animals (if your pet is strictly no touch), working with your vet/behaviourist etc. We never leave a pet behind!

My Animal doesn't have an injury, can it still have physio?
 

Yes! Why wait for your animal to get an injury - prevention is key!

Physio is not just for injuries, diseases or post-operative cases, it can be used to maintain good musculoskeletal health, movement and release muscular tension. Additionally, it is a useful way to spot any compensations early due to underlying issues. 

Many owners just love for their pets to get a once over and a relaxing treatment for peace of mind

Will my insurance company cover the cost of physiotherapy treatment?

Yes. The National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP) s widely recognised by pet insurance companies. A lot of insurance companies have a seperate pot for complementary treatments such as physiotherapy and laser, so be sure to contact your insurance provider to find out what your policy covers. 


Please note that we do not deal with direct claims. You will need to settle your account with McMahon Veterinary Physiotherapy and obtain a receipt that will allow you to claim back your costs from your insurance. 

How long do appointments take?

During your first appointment I will  take a full history of your animal and conduct a thorough examination (see services page). This can usually take around 1.5 hours, however complex cases may take a little longer especially if discussing and demonstrating exercises.Follow up assessments and treatments take around 45 minutes - 1 hour  depending on the treatment.

What do I need to do to prepare my animal before an appointment?

Animals need to be clean and dry. During sessions with dogs and cats, treats are usually used for exercises so you may want to adjust your days feeding accordingly. Horses to be groomed and hooves picked out. 
For small animals, a non-slip area is useful, e.g. rug, carpet, yoga mat etc. 

What payment methods do you accept?

Cash, card or cheque on the day is accepted or invoices can be sent along with the report and exercise sheets.

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