Most canine practitioners have a solid foundation in hindlimb assessment. The greater challenge often begins when a case does not present neatly.

Perhaps the area that appears most sensitive does not fully explain the movement pattern. Perhaps several findings compete for attention. Or perhaps diagnostic imaging and the hands-on examination do not seem to point in quite the same direction.

In these cases, the value of assessment lies not simply in identifying individual findings, but in being able to interpret them in context.

A closely structured approach to canine hindlimb assessment helps the practitioner bring together observation, palpation, joint assessment, passive movement and muscle testing. Rather than relying on one finding in isolation, it supports the development of a clearer clinical hypothesis: which structures may be most relevant, what may be compensatory, and where further investigation or interdisciplinary input may be valuable.

This is not about replacing the skills practitioners already use. It is about building on them — creating a more consistent framework for approaching complex presentations with greater clarity and confidence.

Our two-day Canine Hindlimb: Advanced Clinical Assessment workshop is designed for veterinary and canine clinical professionals who want to refine this practical process.

Through theory, demonstration and close-guided hands-on sessions, delegates will explore detailed joint assessment, muscle testing and clinical localisation within a small, discussion-rich group.

The workshop takes place on 23–24 October 2026 in The New Forest, Hampshire, with a maximum of eight delegates.

For course details and applications, visit the course page.