Equine osteopathy is based on a system of healing by the manipulation of bones (especially the spine) and muscles.
Andrew Taylor Still MD developed the therapy in America in the late 1800’s. He developed the therapy to avoid unnecessary surgery often followed by the complications of infection. His therapy not only avoided surgery but also enhanced the body’s own defence and repair systems, encouraging the body to heal naturally.
Tissue that has a sufficient blood supply, nerve supply and lymphatic drainage will be healthy, without these essential elements, disease and poor health will ensue. The fundamental foundation of osteopathy is based on this principle.
Osteopathic Centre for Animals can put you in touch with a local animal osteopath. Phone 01235 768033
Training as an Equine Osteopath
The path to becoming an equine osteopath is quite a log one. The title Osteopath is one that is protected by law, meaning only those with the relevant qualifications from the General Osteopathic Council can use it.
First, you must become a human osteopath. Typically this required 4-year degree-level study, although there are other pathways for mature students.
Post graduate diploma courses in animal and equine osteopathy are open to qualified osteopaths wanting to develop their skills in animal osteopathy.
The Osteopathic Centre for Animals offers post-graduate training for osteopaths in animal osteopathy, from their clinic in Wantage. For more information contact Stuart McGregor by phone on 01235768033 www.stuartmcgregor.com
Alternatively, one might consider McTimony.
Recommended Reading
Osteopathy and the Treatment of Horses By Anthony Pusey and Julia Brooks.
The first book to be written on equine osteopathy, available from April 2009. This is a practical guide to the effective and safe use of osteopathy on horses. The book will be of interest to both student and practitioner of equine osteopathy.
Equine Osteopathy Sites
Cheryl Harris treats both riders and horses. After qualifying as an osteopath, Cheryl did post graduate training with Stuart McGregor at the Osteopathic Centre for Animals (OCA) and now covers the East Midlands.
Adam M. Tilstone of WeaverHouse is a fully qualified Osteopath registered with the General Osteopathic Council. During 1993 he took a post graduate course on Canine and Equine Osteopathy and has been treating animals since this time. The Weaver House practice is situated in Nantwich, Cheshire. www.weaverhouse.com
Tom McMullen has been an Osteopath & Physical Therapist for the past 20 years and practices from his own clinic based in his home town of Dunbar East Lothian.
Claire Short completed her 5 year training to become an osteopath in 2000 and has since specialised in treating animals. Claire treats in the South East, North London, and East Midlands. www.ashgrovehealth.co.uk
Michelle Henfrey trained at the Centre for Animal Osteopathy with Stuart McGregor, and gained a post graduate diploma in Animal Osteopathy. Warfield Osteopathy is conveniently situated in the North of Bracknell, Berkshire. www.warfieldosteopathy.co.uk
Emily O’Sullivan is an Animal Osteopath specialising in equines. After qualifying in 2005 as an osteopath she went on to complete and pass the Post Graduate Course in Animal Osteopathy, conducted at the Osteopathic Centre for Animals. Emily covers County Durham, Cleveland and North Yorkshire.
Claire Marshall started treating animals in 2003 after qualifying in McTimoney-Corley Spinal therapy. Claire then went on to study Osteopathy at Oxford Brookes University and gained her honours degree. The clinic is based in Duston, Northamptonshire and appointments can be made via the website. Phone: 07801 497595 www.anipulation.co.uk
Bryony Burn (BSc Zoo, BOst, PGDip. Animal Ost.) is a highly qualified human and equine osteopath with extensive experience working within the equestrian industry for over 15 years. She covers mainly the South East Counties and makes regular visits to clinics in Somerset, and surrounding areas. Tel: 07725404743
Registered members of the association of animal osteopaths can be found here.
