Bellarine Animal Physiotherapy

29/05/2026

Not all lameness presents as obvious limping 👀

Floyd presented with left hind limb lameness. One of the most striking findings on assessment was the visible asymmetry through his hindquarters — with reduced muscle bulk creating a “hollow” appearance on the affected side compared with the fuller opposite limb.

Muscle loss like this can develop when a limb is not being loaded efficiently due to pain, weakness or joint dysfunction.

During Floyd’s hands-on physiotherapy assessment, I was able to consistently feel the patella (kneecap) luxating during stifle (knee) extension. Patella luxation occurs when the kneecap moves out of its normal groove and, over time, can contribute to altered movement patterns, muscle loss and increased stress on surrounding structures.

This is why Physiotherapy assessments look beyond the obvious limp. Gait, posture, muscle tone, joint motion and movement strategies all help build the bigger picture.

Floyd has started with hands-on therapy, confidence-building exercises and a progressive walking plan to improve strength and support better limb loading 💪🐾

03/05/2026

24/04/2026

IVDD surgery is only the first step — physiotherapy is what helps dogs rebuild strength, mobility, and confidence. With the right rehab plan, most dogs make incredible progress and return to a happy, active life.

10/04/2026

We’re excited to announce that Help Em Up Harness are now in stock

If your dog struggles with mobility, recovering from surgery, or just needs a little extra support getting around, these harnesses can make a world of difference. 💛

06/03/2026

Rafa has been undergoing physiotherapy management for elbow dysplasia over the past month and has shown excellent progress.

In the initial stages of rehabilitation, his exercise load was reduced to allow symptoms to settle and to minimise excessive joint stress. His walking volume has since been gradually increased with close monitoring for any signs of pain or discomfort.

A key component of Rafa’s rehabilitation program has been strengthening the musculature surrounding the shoulder. Improved shoulder stability and strength can assist with better limb control and help reduce the load transmitted distally to the elbow joint.

The exercise demonstrated here is an advanced progression of a three-leg stance. By elevating the hind limbs and introducing controlled head movements, the demand placed on the stabilising muscles of the shoulder increases significantly. This challenges neuromuscular control and promotes improved strength and limb stability.

Exercises such as this are carefully progressed within a rehabilitation program to safely build strength, coordination and functional limb support.

05/03/2026

Such a great day at Gaws for Paws 🐾

Loved meeting so many passionate pet owners, chatting about animal physiotherapy, and seeing some pups give the rehab equipment a go!

Thanks to everyone who stopped by to say hello. 🐶

27/02/2026

🐾 Quick Paw Trim = Better Grip & Safer Steps

Keeping the fur between your pet’s paw pads neatly trimmed isn’t just about tidiness — it can make a big difference to their comfort and mobility.

Excess hair acts like a little “slipper,” reducing traction on smooth surfaces like tiles, floorboards, and concrete. This can lead to:
• Slipping and sliding when walking or turning
• Increased strain on joints and soft tissues
• Reduced confidence, especially in older pets or those recovering from injury
• Higher risk of falls or re-injury during rehab

A simple, regular trim around the pads helps the paw make proper contact with the ground, improving grip, stability, and movement efficiency.

✨ Think of it like better tread on a shoe!

If your pet is hesitant on hard floors, this is an easy first step to help them feel more secure.

DogHealth CatHealth VetPhysio MobilityMatters

26/02/2026

Explore how hip dysplasia develops, the early signs to watch for, and how physiotherapy supports long‑term mobility

20/02/2026

Agility dogs are incredible athletes and like any athlete, they’re prone to a few common injuries.

We often see:
• Iliopsoas and hamstring strains
• Shoulder overload from tight turns
• Back soreness
• Wrist and toe sprains
• Overuse from repetitive training

The right physio and conditioning program can keep your dog strong, safe, and performing at their best.

🎥 Check out this agility star in action.