Ruth starts any treatment by taking a detailed case history for the animal 

• including veterinary diagnosis
• any concerns the owner has about the animal
• previous injuries, illnesses/operations and treatments
• any changes in behavior, performance or temperament
• management information/animals work load

This is followed by static assessment, the animal is viewed at rest assessing

• how the animal stands/holds itself and if it distributes it weight well through it limbs
• any conformational traits/abnormalities which may cause problems in certain areas
• symmetry of muscle development
• signs of pain or inflammation

Gait Analysis

The animal will be assessed at walk and trot in a straight line as a basic assessment. 

Depending on the animal further analysis such as assessing the horse on a circle or under saddle may be helpful.  In the case of a dog sometimes it is necessary to watch it working to gain an understanding of the potential cause of the poor performance.

Palpation

The spine, pelvis and any other relevant joints are analysed to find misalignments in the joints or associated muscle spasm.

Feed back of findings and treatment

Depending on the results of assessment and any relevant factors discovered during assessment a relevant and appropriate treatment is given to the animal and an explanation of findings is discussed with the owner/handler.  I normally use a combination of the therapies I offer depending on what is most suitable for the animal.  They all work well in combination and compliment each other well.

After care/follow up

This usually involves rest and/or limited exercise for a few days.  It may also include a regime of exercises and stretches.  The aftercare advice should be followed by the animal's owner as it will maximise the effects of the treatment. The animals may require several treatments, depending on the nature of its injury, and it is recommended that animals receive regular check-ups to help maintain optimum performance and health as a preventative measure.

Veterinary Permission

An owner must always consult their veterinary surgeon BEFORE seeking McTimoney treatment as it is illegal for anyone to treat an animal without a veterinary surgeon's approval.  Most vets are aware of complementary treatments for animals and will readily give their permission for the animal to be treated.

Ruth works alongside your veterinary surgeon and other professionals, such as your saddler, farrier and equine dentist, in order to provide the best all-round care for your animal.