A static assessment is when we make observations and notes on how an animal stands. Ideally, we want the animal to stand square for this process, where all four limbs are positioned evenly underneath the body. This allows us to assess their posture and weight distribution more consistently and gives us a more accurate picture of how they naturally stand.

During my professional practice, I understand the time commitment required to carry out your horse's remedial exercises. Therefore, in some cases, exercises that can be carried out in the comfort of your horse's stable can be very beneficial for busy schedules.

Sometimes, when working in a profession such as Veterinary Physiotherapy, we can become so focused on the literature and theory behind why we do what we do. This is certainly something I have explored throughout my previous blog posts.

Pole work is something that is closely associated with equine athletes; however, there are also so many benefits for both canine athletes and companion animals.

Pole work is one of my favourite exercises to prescribe for my equine patients. The evidence base suggests that pole work, when used in different ways, can target areas of weakness that are common in many of the horses I see in practice. I also think it can be easily added into your weekly routine, whether it is completed while riding or even in-hand.

As a veterinary physiotherapist, I work as part of a multidisciplinary team. This means there are several para-professionals who all work together with the main aim of enhancing animal welfare and wellbeing. Within this team we have members such as RCVS-regulated veterinary surgeons, who help to diagnose conditions and illnesses, with the support of RCVS-regulated veterinary nurses. Additional members include equine dentists, registered farriers, and equine nutritionists.

The use of training aids in this industry is a very taboo subject. Some people love them, and some hate them. I wanted to write this peiece to explore what the aims of each training aid was and the potential drawbacks of them in general and when they are not used approriatly. The biggest question is how useful are they and could they potentially replace the need for a remedial exercise plan? 

Canine remedial exercise prescription is very versatile, with each exercise having a range of progressions to suit both injury recovery and performance enhancement. However, compared with horses, dogs can often be more strong-willed and, in my experience, if they do not want to do an exercise, they simply will not do it!

Equine remedial exercise prescription can be made up of various different exercises, some can be conducted in the stable, some can be conducted while riding and some may involve ground work. My overall aim when prescribing exercises is to ensure we work towards our end goals and create a well rounded balanced horse.