Ostéopathie animale | Julie Garreau Ostéopathe Animalier

Osteopathy for Wildlife

The life constraints of wildlife animals in relation to their physiological needs are real. The principles of osteopathy apply to all forms of fauna. With regard to zoo and wildlife patients the need to working with allied professionals is paramount to the successful outcome of any treatment program.

How can osteopathy help a wild animal ?

Osteopathy can play a crucial role in conservation efforts by providing treatment for injured wildlife. When wild animals suffer injuries due to various factors such as accidents, human interaction, or environmental challenges, prompt and effective medical intervention is essential to maximise their chances of survival and eventual release back into their natural habitat.

Prior to any hands on work there will be rigorous health and safety procedures put in place. Osteopathy will be beneficial for biomechanical issues, improving the physical and psyche of captive species, and offer significant reductions in time for animals to be returned to the wild.

Here's how osteopathy can contribute to wildlife conservation through the treatment of injured animals:

Complementary to Veterinary Care: Osteopathy can complement traditional veterinary care in zoo settings, offering an additional layer of support for the health and welfare of animals. Collaboration between osteopaths and zoo veterinarians can ensure comprehensive care plans that address both acute medical issues and preventive musculoskeletal care.

Non-Invasive Treatment: Osteopathy offers non-invasive therapeutic techniques that can be particularly beneficial for treating wildlife injuries. By using gentle manipulation osteopaths can address musculoskeletal issues, relieve pain, and promote healing without causing additional stress or trauma to the injured animal.

Early Detection and Prevention: Osteopathic practitioners can conduct regular assessments of zoo animals to identify any subtle signs of musculoskeletal issues or imbalances. By detecting these problems early, interventions can be implemented to prevent them from progressing into more severe conditions. In addition to treating existing injuries, osteopathy can also help identify and address underlying musculoskeletal issues that may predispose wildlife to future injuries or impairments.

Improved Rehabilitation Outcomes: By addressing musculoskeletal issues and promoting optimal physical function, osteopathy can enhance the rehabilitation process for injured wildlife. Improved mobility, reduced pain, and enhanced overall well-being can facilitate faster recovery and increase the likelihood of successful release back into the wild.

What to except and how to care after the treatment?

Treatments start a healing response that triggers changes to occur within the animals body. Any onset of symptoms or an increase in pain is referred to as the “rebound effect” or “healing crisis”. This can often be quite a tiring experience and some animals can feel soreness for a day or so after an osteopathic treatment; it is often an indication of increased circulation and removal of toxins.

For this reason it is crucial to provide a quiet and stress-free environment for recovery to the treated animal. The results of a treatment are seen after a few days or weeks depending the body’s ability to adapt these changes.

By providing attentive care and monitoring following osteopathic treatment, you can help ensure the best possible outcome for the wild animal's recovery and eventual return to its natural habitat. Collaboration between osteopaths, veterinarians, and wildlife rehabilitators is essential to provide comprehensive care and support for injured wildlife.

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