Hilltops Physiotherapy provides high-quality, evidence-based canine physiotherapy to help your dog recover from injury, manage pain, and enjoy the best possible quality of life. Physiotherapy can benefit dogs with a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, including osteoarthritis, soft tissue injuries, post-operative rehabilitation, and spinal conditions. It can also help optimise performance and reduce the risk of injury in sporting and working dogs involved in activities such as agility, flyball, gundog work, and showing.
Before moving to the Scottish Borders, Issy was the Rehabilitation Service Lead and Senior Physiotherapist at Langford Small Animal Referral Hospital. Working alongside specialist veterinary surgeons, she gained extensive experience rehabilitating dogs following complex orthopaedic and neurological procedures, including cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) surgery, intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) surgery, fracture repair, arthroscopy, and total hip replacement. She treated patients from the first day after surgery through to their return to full function, giving her an in-depth understanding of every stage of the rehabilitation process.
Issy has developed particular expertise in the rehabilitation of dogs recovering from spinal surgery, including those who are deep pain negative. Having worked with these challenging cases from the immediate post-operative period, she understands the intensive rehabilitation, patience, and owner support required throughout recovery. This specialist experience enables her to provide tailored rehabilitation programmes and realistic guidance for owners, helping every dog maximise its potential for recovery.
Alongside her rehabilitation work, Issy also co-ran a specialist pain clinic with a veterinary pain specialist, treating dogs with chronic pain, behavioural changes associated with pain, and multiple complex medical conditions. This experience has shaped her holistic approach to physiotherapy, ensuring that every treatment plan is tailored to the individual needs of both the patient and their family.
Issy also has extensive experience assessing patients for bespoke splints and orthotic devices. She has worked closely with specialist manufacturers to design and prescribe custom-made orthotics that help manage chronic lameness, improve limb function, provide joint support, and aid recovery following injury or surgery. These devices can form an important part of a comprehensive rehabilitation programme for selected patients.
Every appointment begins with a comprehensive assessment before an individualised treatment plan is developed. Treatment may include hands-on manual therapy, including soft tissue massage and joint mobilisation, alongside electrotherapy where clinically appropriate. Rehabilitation exercises are a vital part of recovery, and you will receive a personalised home exercise programme designed to improve your dog's strength, mobility, coordination, confidence, and overall function. Appointments are available around Innerleithen, Peebles and across the Scottish Borders.
Please email or call to enquire about prices or to arrange an appointment.