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Animal Physical Therapists

Unions and Associations

Animal physical therapists do not typically belong to unions, but many professional associations represent their interests. These include the Academy of Orthopaedic Physical Therapy (which has an Animal Physical Therapy Special Interest Group), American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians, Canadian Physiotherapy Association (which has an Animal Rehabilitation Division), and the International Association of Veterinary Rehabilitation and Physical Therapy.

Since APTs often have backgrounds in physical therapy for humans and veterinary science, associations and organizations in these areas can also provide useful resources. The American Physical Therapy Association is the leading organization for physical therapists in the United States, while the Canadian Physiotherapy Association represents the interests of physiotherapists in Canada. The American Veterinary Medical Association and Canadian Veterinary Medical Association are major professional organizations for veterinarians. Specialized associations for veterinarians include the American Animal Hospital Association, American Association of Equine Practitioners, American Association of Wildlife Veterinarians, American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, and the Association of Exotic Mammal Veterinarians.