Both Courses: Manual Therapy and Neurorehab (4 days)

Advanced Canine Manual Therapy with Sheri O'Brien, PT, DPT, OCS, FAAOMPT

This course bridges human and canine anatomy, biomechanics, and clinical reasoning while emphasizing safe, ethical, and effective manual therapy application in dogs.

Day 1 (8a – 5p): focuses on foundations—canine anatomy, movement analysis, pain behaviors, and thorough orthopedic assessment with a strong emphasis on manual skills and clinical decision-making. You’ll participate in hands-on labs using both humans and dogs to refine palpation, joint assessment, and movement analysis while addressing safety, veterinary referral requirements, and scope of practice.

Day 2 (8a – 5p):  builds on those foundations with practical instruction in canine joint mobilization, soft tissue and fascial techniques, neuromodulation, and pain science. Through guided labs and real-world case studies—including post-operative CCL, geriatric osteoarthritis, and sport/working dogs—you’ll learn how to integrate manual therapy into complete, individualized treatment plans.

This course is ideal for PTs seeking to expand into canine physical therapy with confidence, clarity, and strong clinical reason.

Advanced NeuroRehabilitation for Canine Physical Therapy with Amie Lamoreaux Hesbach

This two-day, hands-on course explores the application of advanced manual and movement-based techniques to facilitate functional recovery in neurologically impaired canine patients. Current research, clinical protocols, and patient problem-solving strategies are integrated into practical demonstrations and laboratory components.

Day 1 (8a – 5p): focuses on the sensory system and neuroplasticity, exploring how sensory input influences motor output and recovery. You’ll review evidence-informed protocols, learn how to appropriately use sensory adjuncts and tools, and practice hands-on sensory techniques through guided labs. Real-world patient problems are integrated throughout the day to reinforce clinical reasoning and individualized treatment planning.

Day 2 (8a – 5p): shifts to motor-based neurorehabilitation strategies, including neurofacilitation principles of techniques such as PNF and NDT and activity-based training. You’ll examine the philosophy, techniques, and supporting research behind each approach, then apply them in structured labs using motor adjuncts and equipment. Case-based problem solving helps connect theory to practical application across a range of neurologic presentations.

This advanced course is ideal for PTs seeking to refine their clinical decision-making and hands-on skills in canine neurologic rehabilitation while integrating evidence, technique, and patient-specific needs into effective treatment plans.

PLEASE DO NOT REGISTER UNLESS YOU ARE A LICENSED PHYSICAL THERAPIST OR STUDENT OF A CAPTE-ACCREDITED PHYSICAL THERAPY PROGRAM WHO HAS COMPLETED ONE YEAR OF PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION.

*NOTE: Before starting the program, it is mandatory to upload a picture of your PT License or Student ID.