« back...Zoophysiotherapy in practice – workshops in the Physiotherapy program

Physiotherapy students had a unique opportunity to participate in zoophysiotherapy workshops, during which our four-legged models – Porcelain and Labrador Retriever dogs – were invaluable co-instructors.

The workshops were organized on the initiative of Dr. Justyna Rdzanek, who, in cooperation with the Animal Physiotherapy Study Center, invited specialists to share their knowledge and experience.

The classes were conducted by Małgorzata Łubkiewicz, MA, who presented both practical therapeutic techniques and substantive tips that allowed students to understand what animal physiotherapy looks like “behind the scenes” in an accessible way.

What were the students' experiences and observations?

The therapists' work was observed.
The programme covered the fundamentals of manual therapy and physical treatments for animals.
They have gained the expertise to plan bespoke rehabilitation programmes for animals.
It was understood that animals, like humans, are susceptible to illness and injury, and thus require specialised care.
They watched informative videos on the use of therapy animals, including dogs, cats and horses, in a variety of conditions.

The workshops were interactive and practical – students could ask questions, observe the animals' reactions, and test their knowledge in practice. The classes were met with great interest and enthusiasm from the participants, showing that rehabilitation and physiotherapy are not only for humans – they are also for our animal companions.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to:

1. Dr. Justyna Rdzanek – for the initiative and inviting guests,

2. Małgorzata Łubkiewicz, M.A., and the Animal Physiotherapy Study Program – for their passion and the wealth of knowledge they shared,

3. and our patient four-legged models – for the wonderful atmosphere during the classes.