Animal Osteopathic Development.

Put eleven osteopaths and nine dogs, most of whom had never met before, in a smallish lecture room near Warwick for two days and you might think you have a recipe for pandemonium. However, the calm atmosphere that prevailed over the November weekend, particularly amongst the dogs during the practical sessions (where sleeping rather than snarling was the main order of the day), demonstrated to delegates on the course just how much animals respond to and benefit from this form of treatment.

The course, held in collaboration with the Society of Osteopaths in Animal Practice (SOAP), was lead by experienced animal osteopath and REBI lecturer Jenny Candlish (who studied with Anthony Pusey) with support from Helena Greenwood (who is on the SOAP committee & studied with Stuart McGregor). The weekend provided an introduction for osteopaths already working in the cranial field to explore application of their cranial skills to a different anatomy and physiology - although as the anatomy lectures and practical sessions demonstrated, the anatomy is remarkably similar, even if the practicalities of examining in the live canine specimen can be rather more challenging than the human.

Guest lecturer Nadine Hobson (who represents SOAP on the Osteopathic Alliance) provided the benefit of her considerable experience, as well as generously allowing her three dogs to participate in the practicals. Her lecture, covering the legal requirements of working within the boundaries of the Veterinary Act, common pathologies and presentations supported by details of case histories of dogs in her care, was well-received by delegates. Nadine commented that the course was 'unique' in giving osteopaths the chance to explore these techniques in a hands-on fashion, in a weekend course as an introduction and inspiration to take study further. The opportunity to experience the practical aspects with expert tutorial support was also strongly appreciated by delegates, with several commenting that this was the most valued aspect of the course.

If you were unable to attend on this occasion but are interested to be contacted when the course runs again, or in finding out about other courses, please contact info@rollinbeckerinstitute.co.uk to be added to our mailing list. Information about SOAP can be found at www.uksoap.org.uk

However, should you wish to consult me, Jennifer Latchford, in how a future course may impact your practice, please e-mail me at:- jennifercandlish@uttoxeter-osteopathic-centre.co.uk or use the Contact Page on this site.

Comments below!

• Becky Houghton It was a really good weekend. Many thanks to Jenny, Helena and Nadine - and the pooches. Becky Houghton xx

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  Linda Aryaeenia Fabulous course, and some great characters. Thanks so much!!

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  Faith Johns It was a great course! The tutors were great and having Gill there too was a huge help. Just need to get doing it now!

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  Anne Lamont Well Millie is available any time....she will certainly be a challenge!!

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  Jennifer Latchford Thanks, Millie welcome anytime. I really enjoyed sharing my knowledge with such enthusiastic & competent colleagues, as I know Nadine & Helena did also. So.... watch this space as I am currently developing my work further, any suggestions gratefully received so I can promote the animal Osteopathic work for their welfare.

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  Helena Greenwood Thanks Becky, it was great to be sharing cranial work on dogs with such a great group of colleagues, glad you enjoyed it.