On our first weekend studying the MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy we went through our animal handling skills in preparation for our Observed Structured Practical Examinations (OSPEs) in November. The animal handling sessions involved practicing straight forward tasks, which as veterinary physiotherapists are vital for everyday practise, these tasks must be completed in a professional manner, prioritising animal and handler safety at all times.
As my background is predominantly Equine I immediately felt at ease during the Equine OSPE practice. I did not feel as confident when handling the dogs in front of a lecturer, whom is also their owner and students. I believe my lack of confidence was due to my inexperience of handling dogs in a front of an audience, as I have not felt self-conscious when handling dogs previously.
I was able to walk and trot both dogs at the correct speed for inspection, I was pleased that I could judge the pace which is suitable necessary for inspecting canine gait, as lameness will show in gait abnormalities and imbalances (Bockstahler et al., 2009). I need more practise asking unfamiliar dogs to sit, I believe this was down to my lack of experience handling unfamiliar dogs and lacking canine body language knowledge. I will carry out further reading to gain knowledge on canine behaviour, body language and handling skills, which will aid my future practice. Arhant et al (2010) state in their study that smaller dogs are seen as less obedient, more aggressive and excitable and more anxious and fearful, having this knowledge will be of benefit as I can do my utmost to maintain a safe environment. Rehabilitation and physical therapy for companion animals is said to be one of the fastest growing branch of veterinary medicine (Millis and Ciuperca, 2015), as the popularity is growing for canine therapy it is vital I have the best practice installed in me now to progress in future.
References
Arhant, C., Bubna-Littitz, H., Bartels, A., Futschik, A. and Troxler, J. (2010) ‘Behaviour of smaller and larger dogs: Effects of training methods, inconsistency of owner behaviour and level of engagement in activities with the dog.’ Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 123(3–4) pp. 131–142.
Bockstahler, B. A., Vobornik, A., Müller, M. and Peham, C. (2009) ‘Compensatory load redistribution in naturally occurring osteoarthritis of the elbow joint and induced weight-bearing lameness of the forelimbs compared with clinically sound dogs.’ The Veterinary Journal, 180(2) pp. 202–212.
Millis, D. L. and Ciuperca, I. A. (2015) ‘Evidence for Canine Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy.’ Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice. (Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy), 45(1) pp. 1–27.
