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Animal Physical Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NVA

Veterinary Extern - Specialty

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

Treatment modalities employed include: acupuncture, animal physical rehabilitation, underwater treadmill, pool swims, cold laser, "red" (wound healing) laser, ultrasound, pulsed signal therapy, tPEMF ...

UK St Claire

$26.75 - $35.50/hr

Job Summary Responsible for providing direct patient care by implementing physical therapy treatment plans established by a licensed therapist. Ensures delivery of therapy services to help patients ...

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How much do animal physical therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for animal physical therapy in the United States is $14.43, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $15.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an animal physical therapist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Animal Physical Therapist, you need a background in veterinary medicine, animal anatomy, and rehabilitation techniques, typically supported by a degree in veterinary technology or physical therapy and specialized certification in animal rehabilitation. Familiarity with modalities such as therapeutic ultrasound, laser therapy, and hydrotherapy, as well as software for treatment planning and documentation, is important. Compassion, patience, and effective communication with pet owners and veterinary teams are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities ensure the safe, effective recovery of animal patients and foster trust with both animals and clients.

What is the difference between Animal Physical Therapy vs Veterinary Technician?

AspectAnimal Physical TherapyVeterinary Technician
CredentialsLicensed Physical Therapist (DPT or equivalent), specialized certification in animal rehabLicensed Veterinary Technician (LVT, RVT, or CVT), certification in animal nursing
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation clinics, animal hospitals, specialty practicesAnimal hospitals, clinics, research facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on rehabilitation and recovery of animals post-injury or surgeryProvides medical care, assists veterinarians, performs diagnostics

Animal Physical Therapists specialize in rehabilitating animals through therapeutic exercises and modalities, requiring advanced physical therapy credentials. Veterinary Technicians support animal health through medical procedures and diagnostics, with different certification requirements. While both roles work closely with animals in veterinary settings, their focus and qualifications differ significantly.

Can you be an animal physical therapist?

Animal physical therapists, also known as veterinary physical therapists, are trained to help animals recover from injuries and improve mobility. They typically hold a degree in veterinary medicine or physical therapy and may obtain specialized certifications in animal rehabilitation. This career involves working closely with veterinarians and using techniques such as therapeutic exercises and manual therapy.

What is animal physical therapy?

Animal physical therapy, also known as veterinary rehabilitation, is a specialized field that helps animals recover from injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions affecting their mobility and comfort. Therapists use techniques such as therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, hydrotherapy, and modalities like laser or ultrasound to improve an animal's strength, flexibility, and function. This therapy is commonly used for pets like dogs and cats, as well as horses and other animals, to enhance their quality of life and speed up recovery. Treatment plans are tailored to each animal's specific needs and are often carried out under the supervision of a veterinarian.

What are some common challenges faced by animal physical therapists in their daily work?

Animal physical therapists often encounter challenges such as working with animals that are anxious, in pain, or unaccustomed to hands-on treatment. Building trust with both the animal and its owner is essential for successful therapy sessions. Additionally, therapists must tailor rehabilitation plans to each animal’s specific needs and limitations, which requires strong observation and problem-solving skills. Collaboration with veterinarians and other animal care professionals is also a key part of the role, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery.
More about Animal Physical Therapy jobs
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Animal Physical Therapy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Animal Physical Therapy job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,014 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Adjunct Instructor, Physical Therapy

High Point University

High Point, NC • On-site

Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

High Point University rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 11 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

527th of 614 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Physical Therapist Adjunct Faculty member is responsible for teaching in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) educational program most often in the classroom but also could teach students in the clinic. The Adjunct Faculty member teaches, whether in the classroom or clinic, a substantial portion if not an entire course (with oversight from a core faculty member).
The Adjunct Faculty member should be distinguished by unique clinical skill, content knowledge or both. For example, Adjunct faculty lend greatly to the curriculum in the teaching of Selectives which are often centered upon highly specialized areas of physical therapist practice like women's health, diagnostic ultrasound, or animal physical therapy. Candidates will be expected to demonstrate sound judgment, expertise, professionalism, and teaching ability.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Didactic or clinical teaching
  • Student evaluation and assessment

Required Qualifications:
  • Unique expertise in physical therapy or related field
  • History of teaching/mentoring students

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Licensed PT
  • Specialty certification within physical therapy or a related field
  • DPT degree

For more information regarding this position, please contact Dr. Kevin Ford, Dean, School of Health Sciences at kford@highpoint.edu.

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