Here are a few signs that might indicate your dog could benefit from osteopathic treatment and/or a rehabilitation program:

1. Persistent lameness or limping: If your dog is experiencing ongoing lameness or limping that does not improve with rest, it could be a sign of musculoskeletal issues that an osteopath may be able to address.

2. Stiffness or decreased mobility: If your dog is having difficulty moving, getting up, or shows signs of stiffness, osteopathic treatment could help improve joint mobility and relieve discomfort.

3. Recurrent musculoskeletal problems: If your dog has a history of recurring muscle strains, joint issues, or other musculoskeletal problems, an osteopath may be able to provide long-term management and help prevent future issues.

4. Post-surgical rehabilitation: Osteopathy can sometimes be beneficial in aiding the recovery process after certain surgical procedures, helping to restore mobility and alleviate any associated discomfort.

It's important to remember that while osteopathy can be helpful for certain conditions, it may not be suitable or effective for all dogs or health issues. It is always recommended to consult with a veterinarian who can assess your dog's specific situation and guide you toward the most appropriate treatment options.

Treatment prices for Dogs are as follows (current as of July 1 2023):

Initial Treatment: $150 (45mins)

Follow Up Treatment: $100 (30mins)

Show Dog Check Up: $60 per dog, minimum two dogs (15mins per dog)

Dog osteopathy in Australia is a growing field. Practitioners can complete one of two Animal Osteopathy courses worldwide. It is typically offered by AHPRA registered osteopaths (osteopaths that treat also people).

Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioners are graduates of a comprehensive training program (CCRP, CCRT). This course is open to veterinarians and allied health professionals, such as physiotherapists and osteopaths.

Alternatively, Australia also has a post-graduate course in Animal Biomechanical Medicine.

Dog osteopathy and chiropractic are both alternative therapies used in veterinary medicine to address musculoskeletal issues and promote overall health and well-being in dogs.

While they share some similarities, there are a few key differences between the two practices.

Dog Osteopathy is a holistic approach that focuses on the body's structure and function as a whole. It emphasizes the interrelationship between different body systems and aims to restore balance and optimize the body's self-healing abilities. Dog osteopaths use gentle manual techniques to assess and treat the musculoskeletal system and other body systems.

Dog Chiropractic is based on the belief that proper alignment of the spine is essential for the body's overall health. Chiropractors primarily focus on the spine and its relationship to the nervous system. They use spinal adjustments or manipulations to correct misalignments and restore proper nerve function.

Osteopathic treatment can involve the use of needles, typically through the application of dry needling.

Dry needling is different to acupuncture as its focus is on addressing trigger points (knots, tight muscles) and imbalance within the musculoskeletal system.  

Acupuncture differs in that it is a complete form of Traditional Chinese Medicine using needles to improve the flow of energy through the body, helping rid it from disease. Acupuncture can address pathologies like skin conditions and kidney disease.

At the Dog Osteo, Rachel is qualified in both people and small animal dry needling. She regularly utilises needling as part of a complete treatment.