IRVAP accreditation for the Academy of Veterinary Physiotherapy

The Academy of Veterinary Physiotherapy has gained accreditation from the Institute of Registered Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapists (IRVAP).

The learning establishment, which launched earlier this year has already gained accreditation from RAMP, and learners can now enjoy the career benefits of IRVAP membership too.   

IRVAP aims to raise standards of practice and provide informed representation for our members and information and resources for all those who work with animals

IRVAP members hold multi-professional qualifications and offer integrated services to the animals in their care, leading to improved lives for animals and owners. IRVAP’s diverse membership community includes veterinary surgeons, veterinary physiotherapists, animal musculoskeletal practitioners, veterinary nurses, equine and canine hydrotherapists and animal massage therapists, and is represented  through different membership categories and subgroups.

High standards in professionalism and clinical proficiency are assured through the accreditation process with IRVAP.

Graduates from the Academy’s Level 6 qualification in Veterinary Physiotherapy can join IRVAP under the Veterinary Physiotherapist Member category and use the post nominals MIRVAP (VP).

Graduates of the academy’s Level 4 and 5 qualifications can join IRVAP under the Manual Therapist Member category and can use the post nominals MIRVAP (MT).

Academy learners can also join IRVAP under the Student Membership scheme.

Wendy Vaughan, founder of the Academy of Veterinary Physiotherapy, said: “We are delighted to be part of this prominent community within our industry and feel that our learners and graduates will benefit hugely from membership of this Professional Association.”

The Academy of Veterinary Physiotherapy is an iPET Network approved training provider, an award winning Ofqual regulated Awarding Organisation.

The Academy provides a three-step qualification pathway, which is significantly cheaper than studying at a university, via the iPET Network Level 6 Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy,  Level 5 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation and a Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage.

The blended learning, flexible and accessible courses are delivered by Wendy and her team at The Academy of Veterinary Physiotherapy.  The three- stage programme enables learners to progress at their own pace, achieving qualifications along the way, enabling people to put their skills into practice and potentially start earning in as little as around 9 months.

The degree equivalent Level 6 qualification is suitable for those currently working in the industry seeking formal recognition through a regulated qualification, as well as all of those who would like to work in this growth field, including existing dog groomers, equine grooms, hydrotherapists, and trainers.

These comprehensive qualifications are made up of practical and theoretical learning across a variety of animal species, with the practical elements focusing on the two main species of canines and equines, allowing learners to get recognition for their knowledge and practical skills in a vocational and friendly way.

Candidates will learn advanced study skills, personal development, professional development, resilience and wellbeing from people who have extensive experience of what it takes to be successful in the industry.

Wendy, who is an IRVAP, RAMP and AHPR registered therapist, said:

“I am proud to have worked with iPET Network to develop this trio of qualifications, which will make these fields of veterinary science more accessible than ever, while maintaining all important best practice.

“It was important when we created the courses that they had a strong focus on animal health, behaviour and welfare, including exploring themes such as social licence to practice.

“There are also key specifics relating to the industry, legislation, regulation and working effectively as part of the multidisciplinary team, as well as a real focus on anatomy and physiology and musculoskeletal anatomy, with particular focus on function, orthopaedics and neurology, biomechanics and locomotion and exercise physiology including how commonly used equipment affects our animals.

“The course then builds on this with a strong focus on exercise prescription and rehabilitation, including physiotherapy and rehabilitation for post-surgical, neurological, juvenile, geriatric, non-ambulatory and respiratory patients and for palliative and end of life care.

“For anyone wishing to qualify it is important to learn soft tissue pathology, injury, illness, disease and musculoskeletal dysfunction, concepts of pain, pain management and advanced concepts of tissue healing which are all covered in these qualifications.

“Building on a strong foundation of sports massage and soft tissue skills the courses then teach mobilisation techniques, and the safe and effective use of electro-physical agents (EPAs) and covers advanced clinical reasoning skills and how to conduct physiotherapy assessments and design effective and measurable treatment plans.”