Canine Therapy
Specialise in canine massage and hydrotherapy and learn how canine therapists enhance dog wellbeing. You’ll gain practical experience in our specialist canine centre.
Study at an award-winning university
We were named Times Higher Education University of the Year 2023. We've also been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework – a reflection of the outstanding education we offer our students.
Our course offers a mix of vocational and academic study that will prepare you for a career in the field of canine therapy.
It covers topics such as canine anatomy, physiology and biomechanics, as well as focusing on canine massage and hydrotherapy.
As a student in Writtle, you’ll use specialist equipment in our Lordship Canine Centre, including a hydrotherapy pool and underwater treadmill. You’ll gain recognised skills in hydrotherapy as you take part in commercially run sessions with real cases, helping to compile structured care plans for injured or post-operative animals.
Our highly qualified teaching team includes experienced veterinary physiotherapists and veterinary surgeons.
As a graduate of our Canine Therapy course, you’ll have the knowledge and skills to run your own business or work as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Course options
Key facts
Entry requirements
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Fees and paying for university
Facilities
Study Canine Therapy at ARU in Writtle and use specialist facilities including our Lordship Canine Centre. Our Canine Therapy Clinic features a hydrotherapy pool, two underwater treadmills and clinical consultation rooms in a commercially operated environment that mimics real-world settings.
You can also access our Pet Behaviour Centre, a dedicated facility for pet behaviourists. It features a consultation room, outdoor paddocks and a training hall. It's a commercial space where students are able to observe activities.
Accreditation
Our 3-year degree course is accredited by the Animal Health Professions Register (AHPR). As a graduate, you'll be able to apply for membership of the Register.
Lecturers
Our highly qualified teaching team includes experienced veterinary physiotherapists and veterinary surgeons.
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Megan BlissSenior Lecturer in Veterinary Physiotherapy
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Olivia BakerVeterinary Physiotherapy Co-ordinator
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Dr Romain PaillotSenior Lecturer in Equine
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Lauren HuntLecturer in Veterinary Physiotherapy
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Katie WalkerLecturer
Careers
Our BSc (Hons) Canine Therapy is a 'two in one' qualification as it includes a vocational award. This means that as a graduate, you'll be ready to work as a therapist – either independently or as part of a clinical team.
As the course has a focus on hydrotherapy and massage, you may choose to work in these popular areas.
You may find yourself helping with post-surgery recovery, managing chronic conditions, increasing the range of motion and balance in senior patients, enhancing the performance of competing athletes, helping with a weight control programme or improving the general wellbeing of family pets.
Alternatively you could consider research assistant posts, lecturing and health advisory roles.
Graduation doesn't have to be the end of your time with us. You might decide to at ARU and study for a Masters, such as our MSc Animal Welfare and Conservation.
Apply for Canine Therapy
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