Gentle, expert care
for horses & dogs
Chris has been applying osteopathic principles to animals since 2004, trained by one of the world's leading practitioners of veterinary osteopathy. The same gentle, whole-body approach that works so well for people translates powerfully to horses and dogs.
Trained at the source
In 2004, while living in England, Chris studied animal osteopathy under Stuart McGregor at the Osteopathic Centre for Animals in Wantage, Oxfordshire — one of the world's most respected institutions for veterinary osteopathic training. This was two years after graduating from the British School of Osteopathy in London.
Stuart McGregor is a veterinary osteopath widely regarded as a founding figure in the field. Studying directly under him gave Chris a rigorous foundation in both the anatomy and biomechanics of animal movement, and the hands-on techniques needed to make a real difference.
Chris works primarily with horses and dogs, applying the same cranial osteopathy he uses with human patients, alongside high velocity thrust (HVT) for spinal mobilisation in horses where appropriate.
Trained
Osteopathic Centre for Animals, Wantage, England
Under
Stuart McGregor, veterinary osteopath
Year
2004 — 20+ years of animal practice
Techniques
Cranial osteopathy & spinal HVT
Species
Horses & dogs
Location
Hawke's Bay, New Zealand
Treating the Leg Up Trust horses
The Leg Up Trust, founded by horsewoman Ros Rowe, uses horses to work with at-risk young people in Hawke's Bay. Chris has treated their horses to keep them comfortable, sound and performing at their best.
Video courtesy of the Leg Up Trust — Ros Rowe, Hawke's Bay
What osteopathy can help with
Performance horses, working horses, retired horses — they all carry physical stress that osteopathy can address. Common presentations include:
Back & Spinal Pain
Poor performance, reluctance to bend, bucking, or refusing jumps can all have a musculoskeletal origin. Spinal mobilisation with HVT technique restores normal movement and comfort.
Gait Irregularities
Subtle lameness or uneven movement patterns that haven't resolved with conventional treatment often respond well to osteopathic assessment of the whole body in motion.
Post-Injury Recovery
After strains, falls, or hard work, gentle cranial and structural techniques help reduce compensation patterns and support the body's natural healing.
Stiffness & Restriction
A horse that's stiff through the neck, unwilling to flex, or resisting contact may be in discomfort. Osteopathy finds and releases the underlying structural tension.
Helping dogs move freely
Dogs are often stoic about pain and discomfort — subtle changes in their movement or behaviour can signal underlying musculoskeletal issues. Cranial osteopathy is gentle enough for sensitive animals while being genuinely effective.
Hip & Hindquarter Problems
Dogs with hip dysplasia or hindquarter weakness often develop secondary tension through the back and pelvis. Gentle osteopathy can ease discomfort and improve mobility.
Neck & Disc Issues
Neck pain, reluctance to move the head, or signs of cervical disc irritation can be addressed with gentle cranial and structural techniques — no forceful manipulation.
Post-Surgical Recovery
After orthopaedic surgery, the body adapts in ways that create new tension patterns. Osteopathy supports fuller recovery by addressing the whole musculoskeletal system.
Ageing & Stiffness
Older dogs carrying stiffness or general discomfort often benefit from regular gentle treatment that keeps the body moving as well as possible.
How animal osteopathy works
Assessment
Chris starts by observing movement and posture — watching the animal walk, stand, and carry itself. He'll talk with you about history, behaviour changes, and any previous treatment.
Hands-on treatment
Treatment is done through gentle palpation, cranial techniques, and — in horses where appropriate — high velocity thrust (HVT) for spinal mobilisation. Animals generally respond quickly and visibly to effective treatment.
Follow-up
Chris will advise on how many sessions are likely to help, and what to watch for afterwards. Many animals benefit from periodic maintenance treatment, particularly performance horses.
Animal osteopathy pricing
$60
Per session, at the clinic
Dogs are seen at the Napier CBD clinic. Please get in touch to arrange a suitable appointment time.
From $100
Plus travel to your property
Chris travels to your horse's location throughout Hawke's Bay. Travel cost depends on distance — get in touch to discuss.
“Chris has been treating my dogs, horses and myself for many years and has helped us all to function at our best.”
— Google Review · 5 stars
Interested in treatment
for your animal?
Get in touch directly — Chris is happy to discuss your animal's situation and whether osteopathy is likely to help before you commit to an appointment.
Based in Hawke's Bay — available for on-site visits to your property