All about animal osteopathy

What is animal osteopathy?

Animal osteopathy is a gentle, non-invasive manual therapy that complements veterinary medicine. It aims to restore tissue mobility (muscles, joints, organs, fascia…) and stimulate the body’s self-healing abilities.

Every animal — whether a companion or an athlete — may accumulate tension and imbalances throughout its life. These restrictions can cause pain, lameness, behavioral changes, or decreased performance.

Osteopathic treatment helps to:

Relieve musculoskeletal pain
Improve comfort and mobility
Prevent certain pathologies
Optimize physical performance

When should you consult an animal osteopath?

Osteopathy is both preventive and curative. There’s no need to wait for a serious symptom to contact an animal osteopath.

For prevention:

1 to 4 sessions per year, depending on the animal’s age, activity level, or medical history

To support growth in young animals

Before or after a sports season or a major lifestyle change

In case of warning signs or disorders:

Lameness, stiffness, loss of balance

Difficulty moving, jumping, or lying down

Decreased sports performance

Unusual behavior (aggression, excessive licking, isolation…)

Following trauma or a fall

Post-surgery or chronic conditions:

Osteoarthritis, dysplasia, tendinitis

Recovery after surgery or heavy medical treatment

To improve quality of life and reduce compensations elsewhere in the body

Techniques Used in Animal Osteopathy

Depending on the animal’s needs, age, body type, and history, multiple techniques may be combined in a session.

In case of doubt about your animal’s health, always consult a veterinarian first to rule out any medical condition that may require specific treatment.

Craniosacral Techniques

These work on the central nervous system by releasing tensions between the skull and sacrum. They improve overall balance and have a deep effect on postural, emotional, and digestive issues.

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Fascial and Soft Tissue Techniques

Fasciae are thin membranes that wrap around muscles, organs, and bones. Shock or stress can reduce their elasticity. These techniques aim to restore flexibility to these tissues, supporting fluid circulation and self-regulation in the body.

Joint Mobilization

Gentle or more structural manipulations (like the classic “thrust” or “crack”) help restore mobility to restricted joints. They relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and rebalance posture.

Stretching

Targeted stretches improve joint range of motion, especially for arthritic, senior, or athletic animals. Stretching promotes recovery and limits muscle stiffness after effort.

Visceral Techniques

Since internal organs influence posture and muscle tone, these techniques restore visceral mobility and help relieve back or digestive pain. They harmonize the nervous, muscular, and organ systems.

K-Taping

Kinesiology taping is a complementary method often used after sessions. Elastic bands applied to the skin help relieve pain, improve circulation, and extend the benefits of osteopathic treatment. Especially useful in cases of muscle tension, edema, scarring, or joint instability.

Need more information or want to book a session?

I’m happy to answer any questions you may have about your animal’s symptoms, my approach and techniques, or appointment scheduling.

Caroline Dupont Zayani
Certified Animal Osteopath

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