A NEW Island business has launched offering animal physiotherapy — treating people's pets in their own homes, and also animals living at farms and zoos.

Island Animal Physiotherapy is owned by animal lover, Bianca Skillen, a fully qualified, registered and insured animal physiotherapist.

Bianca said she was inspired to train in animal physiotherapy, when her horse received physiotherapy treatment and she saw a noticeable improvement.

She trained at the College of Animal Physiotherapy and is registered with The International Association of Animal Therapists.

Carisbrooke resident Bianca treats all kinds of animals — including domestic pets, working dogs, farm animals, zoo animals and horses.

She said animal physiotherapy could be used to treat a range of conditions.

It can be used to help animals suffering from acute or chronic pain, arthritis and age-related conditions, neurological problems, ligament or tendon damage and joint or nerve injuries.

Following an initial assessment, Bianca uses toys and aids to help rehabilitate animals who have suffered an injury or had surgery.

Bianca said: "Working with animals in pain or discomfort requires a calm and understanding approach, therefore there are no time limits on appointments.

"There's a common misconception physio is just for post injury, but it can benefit a number of ongoing conditions.

"I treat the whole animal, not just the area of concern."

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