Jane Bannatyne
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I have always lived with dogs and had a keen interest in them and other animals. Since 1986 we have kept Golden Retrievers that have been rescued, keeping one to three on a permanent basis. We have also fostered countless others until suitable homes were found for them.
Due to the number of elderly dogs, obese dogs and dogs with injuries that have lived with us, I have been intrigued with the potential of hydrotherapy to benefit them. After discussing the idea with Lisa, whose details are below, I decided it was time to open an animal therapy centre in the Chichester area specialising in all types of hydrotherapy. It took months of searching for suitable sites before finally deciding to apply to change the use of my garage.
While setting up the premises which opened in 2008, I took an Open College Network Level Three Diploma course in Hydrotherapy which gave me theoretical training and practical experience. Since then I have studied and obtained an ABC Level Three Certificate in Hydrotherapy and an IRVAP Level Three Diploma in Aqua and Hydrotherapy. I have studied dog behaviour to Open College Network Level Three and do regular training in relevant topics. I have also completed a canine first aid course which I update every two years. I achieved my CCRP (Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner) qualification with the University of Tennessee and Schloss Seminars in 2016. I hope that the greater my knowledge and skill set, the more beneficial it will be to the animals I treat.
Lisa Robinson
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I am a registered veterinary nurse with over 20 years experience in small animal practice. A few years ago I attended a lecture on veterinary physiotherapy and was hooked.
In 2004 I gained a post graduate certificate in Veterinary physiotherapy and qualified as a member of the National Association Of Veterinary Physiotherapists ( NAVP ).
When Jane told me she was thinking of starting a canine hydrotherapy centre I was really excited as I have struggled to find suitable facilities to refer patients to, as hydrotherapy is one of the most effective parts of a physiotherapy plan.
I am even more excited at the prospect of being part of 121 Animal Therapy, a centre for complimentary canine therapy, enabling us to not only help owners and pets but to assist each other too.
Dr Susanna Alwen MA VetMB MRCVS
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I qualified from Cambridge Vet School in 2002 and since then have worked in a variety of veterinary roles from general practice to industry and back into referral practice. My main interest is in improving the quality of life of dogs and cats with osteoarthritis or neurological conditions and palliative care. For the last five years I have worked exclusively in this field and gained qualifications in hydrotherapy, rehabilitation, pain management and Western Veterinary Acupuncture. My practice, The Hands on Vet, is based in West Sussex and I see patients from London to the south coast.
Working together we can help to give your pet the best quality of life.
GP Cert Western Veterinary Acupuncture and Chronic Pain Management
Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist
Diploma in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals
Member of the Association of British Veterinary Acupuncturists
Member of the British Veterinary Orthopaedic Association
*Unfortunately due to circumstances beyond her control, Susanna has been forced to take a leave of absence. We hope that she will be in a position to return to us towards the end of the year.
We are lucky Dr Claire Power BVSc. GPCert(ExAP) MRCVS has agreed to look after any of our clients who need acupuncture, until Susanna is able to return.*
Dr Claire Power BVSc. GPCert(ExAP) MRCVS
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I qualified as a vet in 1995 from the University of Bristol and have enjoyed working in small animal veterinary practice since then.
In recent years I have become increasingly interested in improving the quality of life and comfort of our pets, particularly those with arthritis and other chronic conditions.
For this reason I undertook the foundation course in veterinary acupuncture with the Western Veterinary Acupuncture Group, and find using acupuncture in my patients - particularly to reduce pain, but also to improve other conditions - very satisfying.
I am a member of the British Veterinary Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine Association which provides regular training both online and in person to keep me up to date in the field.
I am also a member of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association and the Western Veterinary Acupuncture Group.
Cathie Forbes
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Cathie specialises in soft tissue therapy, advanced massage techniques and Myofascial Release to help with assessment, treatment and management of muscular problems and associated pain.
Utilising skills and knowledge derived from both canine remedial massage, myotherapy, reiki and human sports massage. Over 16 years experience of human sports and remedial massage has given her a background of knowledge of helping pain management in chronic conditions, injuries and rehabilitation.
All of which has helped build her canine practice and combined with her work at The Dogs Trust which has given her invaluable experience working with nervous and anxious dogs. She works closely with other canine professionals to support both you and your dog to reach their full potential, maintain health and well being during every stage throughout your dogs life.
Myotherapy eases chronic muscular tension that can be caused from long term problems and joint conditions, such as hip dysplasia and arthritis. This can help lameness, improve mobility and restore good posture.
Remedial massage and exercise helps speedy recovery from injuries, sprains and strains. Also helps get your dog back on track after surgery. Pre and Post Event massage helps active dogs prevent injury and increase performance. Working dogs, agility, flyball and search dogs all benefit from having regular sports massage to maintain muscular health.
Cathie also specialises in myofascial release which is used or rehabilitation of chronic problems, easing pain and restoring function and mobility. Reiki and Massage can also help relax and reduce anxiety and stress for your dog.
Cathie provides a fully insured service authorised by vets and is a member of International Association of Animal Therapists. Qualified with a Galen Myotherapy Diploma, London School of Sports Massage Diploma, Jing Medical Massage, Advanced Soft Tissue Release & Myofascial Release.
Cathie is also a Reiki Master.
Kenny Hall
I have lived with dogs since I was a child and am interested in training them too. Many moons ago I used to train spaniels as working dogs. Through our rescue dogs I have learnt how much benefit a hydrotherapy unit could provide for the animals owned by local residents.
I have trained and qualified in water management to ensure the water quality of our pool is first class. I have also qualified in canine first aid.