Who are Vita Vitalis Animal Physiotherapy?

What’s in a name?

My family moved to Canada when I was in my early teens. I was shy and had just arrived in a new country, so on my first day in a new High School, my father held my hand as I was introduced to a very enthusiastic, eccentric and patriotically British head teacher. He proudly explained that the school motto was “Vita Vitalis” and means “A life worthwhile”.

The literal translation to English of the Latin phrase is “Vital Life”. Both in terms of personally wanting to making a difference and being able to honour our beloved companions, I felt this was a fitting name for my business.

Vita Vitalis Animal Physiotherapy

Animal Physio

My motivation for starting the business was borne out of the mutual devotion between myself and my beloved Golden Retriever ‘Dixie’. I was utterly in love with her from the minute I brought her home. At 6 months old she started limping and following a visit to a veterinary specialist, was subsequently diagnosed with the orthopaedic condition Osteochondritis dissecans. I was mortified and promised I would do absolutely everything in my power, to ensure my best friend could have a happy and pain free life.  Later on she developed osteoarthritis and was also diagnosed with Degenerative Myelopathy. Another unrelated disease eventually took her from me, but she was still very mobile even at nearly 15 years old. I now need to honour her memory and offer the skills I have learned in order to help other devoted owners and their pets in need.

I am fully insured and provide a high standard of care delivered in a professional and friendly manner. Every animal is different, with their own characters and quirks, and their own timescales. Treatments are bespoke and tailored to the individual needs of the client.

My Qualifications

  • BSc Life Sciences - Queens University, Canada (1996)
  • BSc Animal Sciences (Equine) - Imperial College London (2002)
  • ABC Level 3 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals - Whitehouse, UK (2016)
  • Certified Canine Fitness Trainer (CCFT) - University of Tennessee (2018)
  • Level 6 Diploma Animal Physiotherapy (Distinction) - The College of Animal Physiotherapy, UK (2018)
  • Certified Equine Sports Massage Therapist - Equissage Europe (2020)
  • Member of the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT)
  • Member of the International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy (IAVRPT)