Mandy Fischer BSc (Hons) Ost, DO, PG Cert. Canine

After spending most of my childhood and teens around dogs as family pets and owning and riding horses, I thought I would do something with horses after finishing my education. Instead trained as a nurse, then in 1993, as an osteopath. Over the last twenty years, after taking on rescue lurchers and whippets, it seemed a natural progression to expand my osteopathic knowledge and start to treat animals. I did various canine osteopathic courses over the years and eventually enrolled in the PG Certificate Canine Osteopathy, which Dustie and Eleanor were teaching at the ESO. This was challenging and enjoyable at the same time and definitely worth it.

What was the most noticeable benefit as a cross-skill to human practice?

I have always treated babies and children and found that the principles are very similar. You need to listen to the parent/owner carefully and rely heavily on your observational and palpatory skills. Having a background in cranial techniques is definitely an advantage.

What have you enjoyed about working as an animal osteopath?

I love the relationship between myself, the owner and vets. Especially observing the relationship between dog and owner. It challenges your observational skills and highlights your palpation, osteopathic techniques, orthopaedic and neurological testing. Each dog and breed have different characteristics, breed traits and pathologies that you need to be aware of, so it keeps you on your toes. It can be challenging treating a wriggling small dog with sharp teeth.

Where do you currently practice?

My colleague Caroline and I work between Tunbridge Wells and Brighton. I do home visits and see a few dogs from home and in Lewes.

What are your plans from here?

I plan on continuing as I am at the moment, treating both canine and humans.  I would like to do more in the way of canine rehabilitation.

Contact details

Mandy Fischer

The Cliffe Osteopathy and Complementary Health Clinic www.thecliffeclinic.co.uk

Kent and Sussex Canine Osteopaths. www.Kentandsussexcanineosteopaths.co.uk