Animal Physical Therapists

Certification or Licensing

Voluntary certification credentials are available from the following organizations:

• Animal Rehabilitation Institute (certified equine rehabilitation therapist, certified equine rehabilitation assistant, certified equine kinesiology taping therapist, certified equine massage therapist)
• Canine Rehabilitation Institute (certified veterinary acupuncture therapist, canine rehabilitation therapist, canine rehabilitation veterinary technician/nurse, canine rehabilitation assistant)
• University of Tennessee (canine rehabilitation certification program)

Licensing requirements for APTs vary by state. Contact your state’s department of licensing and regulation to determine if animal physical therapy is legal in your state and what requirements may be needed in addition to your license to work as a human physical therapist, veterinarian, or in another field that you plan to work in before transitioning to animal rehabilitation.