Our Ethos: Advancing the Standard of Canine Care
The K9 Therapy Hub was built on a single, unwavering commitment: to share clinical skills supported by sound science. Together, we can optimise the natural balanced movement, functional abilities and wellbeing of every dog. I believe in a positive therapeutic partnership, gaining every dog's consent and trust so they work actively alongside you, their therapist.
Meet Barbara Houlding
MScVetPhys, GradDipPhys, MCSP, FIRVAP, RAMP
As the first UK Accredited Clinical Educator in Veterinary Physiotherapy, I have dedicated my career to mentoring and supporting fellow therapists. Drawing on over four decades of clinical experience, my focus is on providing practical, evidence-based CPD to support thriving, sustainable clinical practices.
- Chartered Physiotherapist (Since 1982)
- Accredited Clinical Educator (Chartered Society of Physiotherapy)
- Award for Outstanding Services to UK Hydrotherapy 2017
- Award for Excellence in Education + Mentorship 2025
- Past IRVAP Chair + Past IRVAP-ICH Chair
A Lifetime of Clinical Excellence
From RVC Lecturer to an Industry Stakeholder Raising Standards of Canine Practice
MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy
Royal Veterinary College (RVC)
Lecturer + Examiner
Clinical Educator for the RVC Masters Programme in Veterinary Physiotherapy
Co-Course Director
Nottingham Vet School
PgCert Small Animal Rehab
K9HS Courses
Accredited Training +
CPD Provider
Published Articles
Sharing clinical expertise and evidence-based research across the globe.
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Canine Specific Physiotherapy Practice
Dog Edition; Issue 84, October 2025, p58-62
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The role of integrative practice to include hydrotherapy and veterinary physiotherapy for senior dogs
Animal Therapy Magazine; Issue 4, Spring 2016, p4-7
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Canine Hydrotherapy: where are we now?
VetRecord; Volume 168, Issue 15, April 2011, p405-406
Our Core Philosophy
Consent + Trust
Working in partnership with each dog to ensure active participation.
Sound Science
Clinical practice underpinned by current research and advanced clinical reasoning.
Career-Long Learning
Advancing professionalism within the sector to support ongoing clinical excellence.
Voices of Success
"By linking the Hub to our New Zealand Certificate in Canine Clinical Hydrotherapy, we can offer a depth of clinical learning that is truly unique. Students are empowered to think critically, apply sound clinical reasoning, and treat every dog with mindfulness and respect. The combination of evidence-based science, ethical practice, and Therapeutic Handling skills within the Hub aligns perfectly with our commitment to best practice. Working with Barbara hasn't simply strengthened our curriculum; it has strengthened our profession."
K9 Aqua Courses Director, Clinical Hydrotherapist
"Barbara is one of the most pioneering and inspiring individuals in our field. Her depth of knowledge seems limitless, and her generosity in sharing her clinical expertise makes her exactly the kind of asset our industry needs in abundance. I'm honoured not only to have her as a mentor, but also a friend."
Veterinary Physiotherapist, Level 4 Hydrotherapist
AdvCertVPhys; FIRVAP; Tellington TTouch Practitioner Level 3; APDT; CBWA; Ace Advanced Tutor
"For Barbara it's all about the dog and an ongoing dedication to canine wellbeing. Her commitment to evidence-based practices and remarkable clinical skills in the development of unique canine neural patterning protocols has raised standards. Barbara's meticulous attention and unique approach to learner centred education makes her an inspirational clinician, outstanding educator and invaluable resource."
Chartered Physiotherapist, Equine Physiotherapist, Owner at WERC, RAMP Past President
Ready to Advance Your Practice?
Join the K9 Therapy Hub today and access a wealth of clinical knowledge, community support and professional resources.
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