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What is Rehab Congress?

Rehab Congress is a one day virtual event focused on veterinary rehabilitation.

This congress offers 7 hours of evidenced CPD. We'll be welcoming expert industry speakers deliver lectures on a range of topics.

Who should attend?

Veterinary nurses and members of the veterinary profession looking to develop their knowledge and understanding of different veterinary rehabilitation techniques and disciplines. This congress will be particularly useful if you're:

  • Aiming to progress within your role
  • Interested in keeping up-to-date with everything happening in the industry

Why attend?

  • Listen to lectures from a range of speakers who will be sharing their experiences and knowledge
  • Q&A sessions mean your questions will be answered by the speakers themselves
  • Gain practical takeaways that you can implement in your practice
  • Gain information, product knowledge and offers from our virtual exhibitors
  • Earn 7 hours of evidenced CPD
  • Gain online access to recordings of all the lectures and lectures from previous congresses up until the next event
Download the agenda (PDF)

Online Registration and Exhibition

Chair's Welcome

Kathryn Scroope, AFHEA PGCert VBM RVN VNRT, The College of Animal Welfare

Galen Myotherapy: Information Observations - why they are vital within rehabilitation

Julia Robertson, Found of Galen Myotherapy

It is very difficult to interpret exactly where a dog may be feeling pain or discomfort, but by interpreting how they are presenting can break through this language barrier and enable us to facilitate more successful treatments and management. We will look at:
1. How understanding fascial connections can uncover and explain postural issues
2. Muscle symmetry and allied compensation patterns
3. How behaviour is synonymous with specific muscular issues

Hydrotherapy - An industry insight with case studies

Sam Wallace and Geri Rowe - Canine Hydrotherapy Association

Join Sam Wallace, who will be providing an overview of hydrotherapy, along with case studies, and covering the following key learning points:

  • Hydrotherapy Industry Changes and qualification requirements.
  • The Canine Hydrotherapy Association – Voluntary Regulation and Training.
  • Case Studies – Why we do what we do! This will include some pool and TM cases with before and after videos.

Geri Rowe will then be available to answer any questions during the live Q&A.

Live Q&A Panel

Present questions (anonymously if desired) to the speakers.

Morning Break and Exhibitor Promos

Clinical Applications and Science behind Therapeutic Radiofrequency for Musculoskeletal Rehabilitation and Pain Management

Dr Stephen Barabas, BSc (Hons) BVMS MRCVS

Electrical current has been used in both medical and veterinary care for over a century. Radiofrequency is the waveform form of electrical current that is used for both surgical and therapeutic clinical applications.

In the last 4 decades great advances in our knowledge of in vitro and in vivo studies of different radiofrequencies and power settings has improved our range of clinical applications and ability to enhance the end outcomes over a broad range of wound care, musculoskeletal rehabilitation and pain management in multiple species.

This presentation will look at the following key learning points:
The Science of Radiofrequency, Differences in Frequencies and Clinical Applications

Live Q&A Panel

Present questions (anonymously if desired) to the speakers.

Lunch Break, Online Exhibition and Lounges

Feline Rehabilitation; Non-pharmaceutical pain management, environmental modification and remedial exercise plans

Rosie Dymond, BSc (Hons) Vet Physio, S.M.A.R.T Specialist Veterinary Referrals

This presentation will provide an overview of how to recognise the signs of pain in cats and how we can engage owners to monitor these signs away from the clinic.

We will then look at options for non-pharmaceutical pain management that can be provided in the clinic environment including acupressure, soft tissue therapy and exercises.

Finally, we explore how care givers can enhance the home environment to reduce the demands on the painful cat and to facilitate remedial exercise plans.

Ancient Techniques Supporting Modern Rehabilitation

Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis, Founders of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Resources

Acupressure-massage is the original Chinese meridian massage. It is one of the essential forms of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). These ancient hands-on techniques are used to resolve pain, increase blood flow, enhance flexibility of tendons and ligaments, nourish bones, while supporting the animal’s emotional wellbeing.

Acupressure-massage techniques are characterized as “families” that include multiple techniques within each family. These families are direct pressure, pushing, kneading, grasping, rubbing, vibrating, and gentle knocking.

The Tallgrass presentation provides demonstrations of hands-on techniques plus discusses how the benefits of acupressure-massage best complement an animal rehabilitation session.

Live Q&A Panel

Present questions (anonymously if desired) to the speakers.

Chair's Close

Kathryn Scroope, AFHEA PGCert VBM RVN VNRT, The College of Animal Welfare

Event Close

Julie Robertson HeadshotJulia Robertson
Founder of Galen Myotherapy

Julia Robertson's extensive contributions to the field of canine myotherapy are truly remarkable. Her pioneering work in understanding and treating adaptive change in dogs has had a profound impact on the lives of thousands of dogs worldwide. Through her organisation, Galen Myotherapy, Julia has not only treated numerous dogs but has also trained countless individuals in her innovative techniques.

Her development of Positive P.A.C.T.®, Galen’s unique methodology for 'choice led treatment,' reflects her commitment to providing compassionate care to animals in pain. Furthermore, Julia's efforts to raise awareness about the correlation between canine pain and behaviour have led to the formalisation of the Galen Comfort Scale©, which is now used in studies and treatments globally.

The establishment of Galen Myotherapy International Schools in Oslo, Norway, and Melbourne, Australia, as well as the translation of the Galen Canine Myotherapy Diploma into Spanish, highlight Julia's dedication to expanding access to education in this field.

As a published author of three books and producer of two DVDs, including the award-winning 'Tongue to Tail,' Julia has further solidified her reputation as an expert in the field. Her books, such as 'Physical Therapy and Massage for the Dog' and 'The Complete Dog Massage Manual,' have become essential resources for veterinary professionals, students, therapists, trainers, and dog owners alike.

Julia Robertson's ongoing commitment to advancing the field of canine myotherapy and improving the lives of dogs underscores her status as a luminary and leader in her field. Her contributions continue to shape the way we understand and care for our canine companions.

Stephen Barabas HeadshotDr Stephen Barabas BSc (Hons), BVMS MRCVS

Stephen Barabas is a graduate of Glasgow University veterinary and zoology faculties.

He runs two companies: VBS Direct, providing innovative equipment services to vet surgeons, nurses and physiotherapists, including K-Laser, Indiba, regenerative medical products, surgical technologies and high-grade supplements.

Also, a human medical company, VBS Medical (K-Laser UK), that works directly with the NHS, sports franchises and private healthcare using Class IV K-Laser, Regenerative therapies and Indiba-Radiofrequency devices (treating diabetic wounds, musculoskeletal injuries and chronic pain).

Stephen is an Honorary Laser Consultant at St Thomas and Guy’s Hospital in London, and locums in small and mixed veterinary practice.

RosieRosie Dymond BSc (Hons) Vet Physio
S.M.A.R.T Specialist Veterinary Referrals

After a false start as a Project Manager, Rosie re-trained as a mature student through the Harper Adams’ Veterinary Physiotherapy degree.

Since graduating in 2021, she has worked as part of the team at S.M.A.R.T Specialist Veterinary Referrals, providing tailored physiotherapy to a diverse case load of clients.

The clinic treats a wide variety of sporting, service and pet dogs and cats and are actively seeking to increase awareness of the benefits for cats and other small animals of ‘pre-hab’, rehab and on-going supportive care to their guardians and first line practices.

Amy and Nancy HeadshotAmy Snow and Nancy Zidonis
Founders of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Resources

Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis are the founders of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Resources. Both Amy and Nancy studied at the International Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Colorado, USA.

They are the authors of eight books including ACU-DOG: A Guide to Canine Acupressure, ACU-HORSE: A Guide to Equine Acupressure, and ACU-CAT: A Guide to Feline Acupressure.

During the past 30 years they have taught acupressure-massage in the United States, Canada, England, Australia, Holland, and Israel. Their articles are published worldwide.

Tallgrass offers equine, canine, and feline acupressure learning tools including books, manuals, meridian charts, Apps, and videos.

Sam and GeriSam Wallace and Geri Rowe

Sam Wallace joined the industry when it was just starting and opened Ashbourne Hydrotherapy in 2014. Geri Rowe changed career in 2017 after teaching for 30 years, opening Paddocks Farm Rehabilitation and then expanding into clinical education.

Together, they currently lead the CHA (Canine Hydrotherapy Association) and provide the majority of hydrotherapy practical placements in the UK.

Sam’s passion for rehabilitation, particularly post-surgery, means specialising in treadmill treatments - dealing with complex patients with multiple muscular-skeletal conditions, with a multi-disciplinary team.

Geri has a passion for pool treatments and geriatric patients but also uses a treadmill, alongside laser treatments and would love to expand to treat more cats!

Kathryn Scroope HeadshotKathryn Scroope AFHEA PGCert VBM RVN VNRT
Deputy BSc VN Programme Leader, The College of Animal Welfare

Kathryn is currently based at The College of Animal Welfare, where she is the Deputy Programme Leader on the Veterinary Nursing degree programme, delivered through Middlesex University.

She is based in Ireland, where she is from, and where she gained her qualification as an RVN in 2012.

Kathryn went on to work in small animal practice for nine years, working her way up from clinical coach to head nurse and then on to practice manager. During this time, she gained a certificate in small animal rehabilitation through CPD solutions and more recently completed her Post Graduate Certificate in Veterinary Business Management at Liverpool University.

She has recently been awarded an Associate Fellowship title in higher education which demonstrates a personal and institutional commitment to professionalism in learning and teaching in higher education.

Canine Athritis Management LogoCanine Arthritis Management (CAM)

Canine Arthritis Management (CAM) is a veterinary driven initiative set up in 2015, by award winning vet Dr Hannah Capon, and has become the leading provider in education and support to canine professionals and caregivers on the early identification and multimodal management of arthritis – so dogs do not needlessly suffer from chronic pain associated with the disease.

CAM believes that by changing the perception of canine arthritis from “just getting old” to a chronic disease that can be effectively diagnosed and treated using evidence-based practices will improve the lives of dogs and their caregivers.

CAW Business School

CAW Business School was set up in 2012 to offer business related qualifications. CAW Business School offers a number of highly recognised qualifications including the opportunity to study AAT Accounting, Business Administration, Customer Service, TAQA and ILM leadership and management, and coaching and mentoring courses.

 

Millpledge Veterinary LogoMillpledge Veterinary

Millpledge Veterinary has been manufacturing innovative products designed specifically for the veterinary professional for over 30 years.

Ranging from Pharmaceuticals to Nutraceuticals, Bandaging and Fluid Therapy, encompassing products for companion and large animal use. Providing complete peace of mind for the veterinary profession.

Popular products include Rapz Eazy Tear® Cohesive Bandages, Eaze-Off® Tape and Bandage Removal Spray, Tom Tiddle™ Urinary Cat Catheters, Millpack™ Sterilisation Pouches with built-in sterility test strips, Aniset™ IV Sets for small and large animals, and V-GEL® advanced species-specific supraglottic airway devices for Rabbits, Cats, and Dogs.

Visit our website at www.millpledge.com to view our full range.

Pet RemedyPet Remedy

Pet Remedy is a natural plant based range of calming products for pets. Easy to use and fast acting. This unique and patented formula is valerian root oil based and is made in the UK.

Pet Remedy works with the pet's own natural calming mechanisms and is suitable for use in all stressful situations. Pet Remedy will also help with developing emotional resilience and wellbeing. Now used by most veterinary practices and rescues on a daily basis. Visit the vet zone on our website and you will see a detailed explanation by Dr Robert Falconer-Taylor (veterinary neuro surgeon and author), about how Pet Remedy works. You will also see links to 9 published studies showing efficacy in multi-species including cat, dog, rabbit, pig and horse.

CAW LogoThe College of Animal Welfare

The College of Animal Welfare is one of the largest providers of veterinary nurse training in the UK, with centres in Cambridgeshire, North London, Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, West Midlands, County Durham and Scotland. We strongly believe that education and training is the key to raising standards of animal welfare. To this end, we strive to create new and accessible opportunities for learning, and encourage employers and those working with animals to undertake appropriate levels of training and continue with lifelong learning and education.

VetlifeVetlife

Vetlife is a charity dedicated to supporting the veterinary profession.

Everyone in the veterinary community is welcome to contact the Vetlife Helpline for free, independent and confidential support – including veterinary nurses, veterinary students, and non-clinical staff. The Helpline can be reached on 0303 040 2551 or by anonymous email.

Following contact with the Vetlife Helpline, volunteers can refer those needing further care to our award-winning Vetlife Health Support service which provides mental health support.

Vetlife Financial Support is available for eligible veterinary surgeons, registered veterinary nurses, and their dependants in the UK.

 

BVRSMA

The BVRSMA aims to provide continuing professional development for veterinary surgeons, physiotherapists, and nurses who have an interest in small animal rehabilitation and sports medicine. BVRSMA is affiliated with the BSAVA.

Membership benefits include access to clinical club discussions, member’s library, case study presentations plus more. The main aims of the BVRSMA are to promote appropriate regulation for the use of hydrotherapy, physiotherapy and rehabilitation to ensure it is performed by qualified and experienced professionals, maintain standards of excellence in our field, encourage and fund scientific research and evidence based clinical trials, and achieve recognition from regulatory bodies such as the RCVS.

Early Bird Tickets Available

£125+VAT

That's a saving of £60

Once the Early Bird promotion ends, your ticket will cost: £175+VAT

Early Bird pricing is available until Friday 3 January 2025.

Rehab Congress is a one day virtual event that focuses on veterinary rehabilitation.

Why exhibit with us?

  • Limited exhibitor numbers - Unlike larger congresses where hundreds of exhibitors often mean that visitors will not remember everyone, exhibition space for these events is strictly limited. As such you will get the opportunity to engage with the delegates attending our congresses personally.
  • Make meaningful business connections – Network with those that influence decision making in veterinary practice and make relevant industry contacts virtually.
  • Cost effective – with exhibitor packages starting from just £50+VAT, our prices offer value for money and fall considerably below that of larger events within the industry.

To find out more contact Claire Gregory on 01480 422060.


Book now