Growing up in rural County Cork, Ireland, I knew from a young age that I wanted to persue a career with animals. I moved to the UK to study Equine at Moreton Morrell College. Here I was a member of the colleges Equestrian Team, competing at predominantly dressage and some showjumping. I completed the course with flying colours, and recieved Student of the Year award. I then moved to Essex and undertook a 4 year Integrated Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy course at Writtle University College. The fantastic lecturing team, and great facilities, including a commercial Canine Therapy Clinic, set me up for my current career. I also completed two research projects at University, concerning the use of acupuncture and laser acupuncture point stimulation on equine back pain.

​

On finishing my Masters degree I became a fully qualified and insured Veterinary Physiotherapist, being a member of the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP), and also an Equine Body Worker (EEBW). I practiced in Essex for several years, whilst also being a part-time Lecturer in Veterinary Physiotherapy. In this time, I also completed my Level 3 Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy and worked as a Canine Physiotherapist and Hydrotherapist in a Canine Therapy Clinic, being a member of the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA).

 

I then moved to Bristol in 2022 and have set up my practice here. I treat horses and dogs, utilising a blend of soft tissue therapy, electrotherapeutic modalities and remedial exercise prescription, aiming to alleviate pain, optimise function and promote healing. I am particularly passionate about myofascial release work, and using the myofascial kinetic chains to assess and treat dysfunction.

 

In addition to running my physiotherapy business, I am also a part-time University level educator at two institutions, roles I enjoy immensely as they facilitate my perpetual passion for teaching, learning and research. I am a Lecturer in Veterinary Physiotherapy teaching on the clinical year of an MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy course. I am also a Lecturer in Veterinary Anatomy, which enables me to pursue and hone my fascination (bordering on obsession) of anatomy!

 

Whilst following my additional career path as a lecturer, I have completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Higher Education Practice from the University of Essex, providing me with FHEA status (Fellow of the Higher Education Academy). I find pedagogy fascinating, and am therefore now undertaking a Postgraduate Diploma in Health Professions Education at the University of Bristol.