VETERINARY PHYSIOTHERAPY IN DURBAN NORTH
Helping your pet move better, feel stronger and live more comfortably
Personalised veterinary physiotherapy for dogs, cats and other animals at Ashburne Veterinary Hospital in Glen Ashley, Durban North.
Whether your pet is recovering from surgery, living with a joint or neurological condition, or needs help staying strong and active, every treatment plan is built around their individual needs.
Because they are part of the family
As a dedicated pet owner herself, Danielle understands just how important our animals are to us. They are far more than pets—they are part of the family.
At Healing Paws Physio, the goal is to help animals remain comfortable, active and independent for as long as possible. Veterinary physiotherapy works alongside your pet’s veterinary care to support the muscles, joints, movement and neurological systems that affect everyday quality of life.
Through individual treatment, targeted strengthening and practical owner education, we work together to help your pet move with greater confidence and comfort.
How veterinary physiotherapy can help
Physiotherapy can support animals at many stages of life—from young animals with developmental conditions to senior pets needing help maintaining mobility.
Recovery after surgery or injury
A structured rehabilitation programme can help restore movement, rebuild strength and support a safer return to normal activity.
Joint health and long-term conditions
Targeted exercise, joint movement and supportive treatment can help animals living with arthritis, dysplasia and other chronic mobility conditions.
Neurological rehabilitation
Coordination exercises, gait retraining and proprioceptive work can support functional movement after spinal or neurological conditions.
Strength and healthy ageing
Building and maintaining muscle strength supports the joints, spine, balance and everyday mobility of both young and older animals.
Reasons your pet may benefit from physiotherapy
Joint and developmental conditions
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, arthritis, degenerative joint disease and other developmental joint conditions.
Surgery and injury recovery
Cruciate surgery, fractures, joint injuries, luxations, ligament or tendon injuries and general post-operative weakness.
Neurological and spinal conditions
Intervertebral disc disease, spinal injuries, peripheral nerve conditions, coordination difficulties and weakness.
Treatment suitability depends on your animal’s individual condition and may require veterinary diagnosis or approval.
Personalised treatment for your pet
Initial Physiotherapy Assessment
A detailed discussion, movement assessment and hands-on examination to understand your concerns and develop an individual treatment plan.
Post-operative Rehabilitation
Structured rehabilitation to restore mobility, rebuild strength and support your pet’s return to normal function.
Joint and Mobility Support
Ongoing support for animals living with arthritis, dysplasia, stiffness or other long-term joint conditions.
Neurological Rehabilitation
Treatment focused on coordination, balance, proprioception, gait and functional movement.
Doglates
Targeted strengthening exercises designed to engage the core, improve stability and support the forelimbs, hindquarters and spine.
Swimming Pool Hydrotherapy
Controlled, lower-impact exercise in the swimming pool to build strength, encourage joint movement and reduce weight-bearing pressure.
What to expect from your pet’s physiotherapy journey
1. We listen
We begin with your pet’s history, your concerns, what you have noticed and what you would like physiotherapy to address.
2. We assess
Posture, walking, coordination, position changes, muscles, joints, spine and available movement are assessed.
3. We create a plan
Your pet’s treatment plan is tailored to their condition, comfort, ability and response.
4. We adapt and support
Treatment and home exercises develop as your pet becomes stronger and their needs change.
Your pet’s comfort comes first
The first appointment is also an opportunity for your pet to become comfortable with a new person, environment and type of treatment. Some animals are immediately confident, while others need more time.
Handling, equipment and simple exercises are introduced at your pet’s pace. Treatment is adapted to their personality, behaviour and comfort rather than forcing every animal through the same routine.
Working alongside your veterinary team
Physiotherapy does not replace veterinary care—it works alongside it. Where appropriate, Danielle may recommend veterinary investigation or communicate with your pet’s veterinary team so that diagnosis, medication, rehabilitation and overall care work towards the same goal.
No formal veterinary referral is required to request an initial appointment.
Support that continues at home
Most rehabilitation does not happen only in the treatment room. Danielle helps owners understand their pet’s condition, recognise subtle changes and confidently manage appropriate exercises and activity at home.
- Safe home exercises and strengthening
- Activity and movement adjustments
- Signs of discomfort to watch for
- Weight and lifestyle support
- Questions to discuss with your veterinarian
Helpful resources for pet owners
Latest from the blog
Practical articles to help you better understand your pet’s movement, comfort and rehabilitation.
- How do I know if my cat is in pain?Cats are experts at hiding pain. In the wild, showing weakness makes an animal vulnerable, so many cats continue eating and interacting while still… Read more: How do I know if my cat is in pain?
- Cruciate ruptures… what do I need to know as an owner?Hearing that your dog has a cruciate ligament rupture can feel overwhelming. The good news? With the right management and rehabilitation, most dogs can… Read more: Cruciate ruptures… what do I need to know as an owner?
Ready to help your pet move more comfortably?
Tell us what you have noticed, what concerns you and what you would like help with. We can discuss whether a physiotherapy assessment may be an appropriate next step.