Meet Andrew
Andrew is a native of England and has been living and working in Baton Rouge as a physical therapist for the past 24 years. His specialties are spine and general orthopedics with a special interest in manual therapy, anatomy and biomechanics.
Outside of work, Andrew’s passion in life involves his two Golden Retrievers. He enjoys training and competing in Agility and Obedience trials and is an active member of the Louisiana Capital City Obedience Club. He also contributes short articles to the club's monthly newsletter on various topics involving Canine Rehabilitation.
His interest in Canine Therapy began 6 years ago after his 11-year-old Golden Retriever was diagnosed with a progressive neurological disease called Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). “Cassie” was referred to a Canine Rehab Facility to begin her treatment. And under the guidance of her wonderful Canine Therapist, “Cassie” was able to slow the progression of the disease with exercises by maintaining strength and mobility. Although this proved to be a very sad and difficult part of Andrew’s life, the experience was truly inspiring and thus began his interest in Canine Rehabilitation.
For the past 2 years, Andrew has attended extensive training at the Canine Rehabilitation Institute in Colorado, and in 2019 received his official certification as Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT). He is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association special interest group Animal Physical Therapy. He has certified in human trigger point dry Needling for 8 years and recently attended a specialty course in Canine myofascial trigger point dry needling.
Andrew’s ambition is to combine his vast experience in Physical Therapy with his compassion and knowledge of dogs to provide a level of excellence in Canine Rehabilitation. He believes that a team approach, working closely with your veterinarian is vital to maximize positive outcomes for your beloved best friend.
"If you don't own a dog, AT LEAST ONE, there is not necessarily anything wrong with you, but there may be SOMETHING wrong with your life."
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-Roger A. Cara
What is K-9 (Canine) Rehabilitation?
If you have ever received Physical Therapy treatments for yourself, then you may already have a good idea of what canine rehabilitation is. Canine Rehabilitation is simply the application of human Physical Therapy principles and techniques on dogs performed by a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) or Practitioner (CCRP).
Rehabilitation therapy addresses orthopedic injuries, neurologic dysfunction, chronic arthritic conditions, aging issues and performance difficulties. A thorough examination is performed in order to identify issues with joints, muscles or nerves, and an individualized treatment plan is designed to address these issues. A treatment plan may include soft tissue techniques, joint mobilization, therapeutic exercise, functional training, neuromuscular re-education, agility simulation activities or modalities such as electrical stimulation or laser.
The goal of physical rehabilitation is to maximize function by promoting a rapid recovery after injury or surgery, slowing down the progression of chronic diseases, or training for peak performance.
Certified Canine Rehab Therapists collaborate with veterinarians to offer the best in rehabilitation care.
Does my dog need rehabilitation?
Does your dog move freely and without pain?
Is your dog performing to its greatest potential?
If you feel that your dog is not functioning at his best, canine therapy may be indicated. Rehabilitation programs address a variety of issues including lameness, recovery from injury or surgery, back or neck pain, neurological conditions, fitness and conditioning, and athletic performance. Canine therapy is appropriate for family pets, senior citizens, canine athletes and working dogs.
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CONDITIONS WE TREAT
Post-surgical Orthopaedic
Osteoarthritis
Ageing issues
Hip and elbow dysplasia
Ligament and tendon strains and sprains
Patella luxation
Agility/performance injuries
Disc disease and lumbosacral dysfunction
Wobbler's Syndrome
Degenerative Myelopathy
Fibrocartilagenous embolism (FCE)