Veterinary Physiotherapy (Canine)

Turn your passion for dogs into a rewarding career by mastering expert clinical skills in canine physiotherapy.

With the UK’s dog population soaring to mote than 14.5 million, there’s never been a greater demand for qualified canine physiotherapists.

This four-year degree at ARU in Writtle includes a Masters year, and combines theory with hands-on experience.

With a focus on canine health and rehabilitation, you’ll work with real cases in our Canine Therapy Clinic. You'll explore anatomy, behaviour, biomechanics, massage and electrotherapy – and work towards a recognised Level 3 hydrotherapy qualification.

Why ARU?

• Learn from expert tutors who are qualified veterinary physiotherapists and veterinary surgeons.

• Build your skills in our Canine Therapy Centre, a commercial facility with two underwater treadmills and a hydrotherapy pool.

• Bring the world of work to life through Live Briefs, developed with employers to give you exposure to ‘real world’ problem-solving.

• Join an innovative four-year course, progressing to a Masters degree after three years.

Year 1:
Foundations of Canine Professional Skills (15 credits)
Factors Affecting Canine Performance and Wellbeing (15 credits)
Canine Anatomy and Physiology (15 credits)
Canine Therapy Assessment: Principles and Practice
Interdisciplinary Perspectives on Canine Nutrition, Behaviour and Welfare (30 credits)

Year 2:
Ruskin Module (15 credits)
Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics of Canine Movement (30 credits)
Canine Principles and Applications of Manual Interventions (30 credits)
Canine Health, Disease and Pain Mechanisms (15 credits)
Research Methods (15 credits)

Year 3:
Undergraduate Major Project (30 credits)
Integrated Approaches to Canine Exercise Physiology (15 cresits)
Applied Techniques in Canine Massage, Rehabilitation and Hydrotherapy (30 credits)
Canine Biomechanics and Pathophysiology (30 credits)
Professional Development for Career Success (15 credits)

Year 4:
Postgraduate Major Project(60 credits)
Advanced Canine Therapy: Manual, Electrophysical Agents, and Exercise Prescription (30 credits)
Advancing Canine Clinical Skills and Professional Development (30 credits)

You’ll study essential topics such as nutrition, exercise science, pharmacology, disease management and rehabilitation. Get hands-on in our Canine Therapy Clinic, as you explore safe dog-handling, first aid and therapeutic techniques. You'll also build professional skills in research, business and ethics.

As you progress, you'll take on more independent learning and explore advanced therapeutic techniques, including massage, electrotherapy and remedial exercise. You’ll learn to apply scientific principles with confidence, preparing you for a successful career in clinical practice.