1

Animal Physical Therapy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Physical Therapy Assistant I

Campus, IL · On-site

$27.25 - $36/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 ...

Physical Therapy Assistant I

Morehead, KY · On-site +1

$24.50 - $32.50/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 ...

Physical Therapy Assistant I

Ashland, KY · On-site +1

$24.50 - $32.50/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 ...

Physical Therapy Assistant I

Morehead, KY · On-site +1

$24.50 - $32.50/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 ...

$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 ...

Showing results 21-40

Animal Physical Therapy information

See salary details

$9

$14

$18

How much do animal physical therapy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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 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 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.

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.

More about Animal Physical Therapy jobs

What cities are hiring for Animal Physical Therapy jobs?

Cities with the most Animal Physical Therapy job openings:

What states have the most Animal Physical Therapy jobs?

States with the most job openings for Animal Physical Therapy jobs include:

Infographic showing various Animal Physical Therapy job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,014 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Physical Therapy Assistant I

King's Daughters

Campus, IL • On-site

$27.25 - $36/hr

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


King's Daughters Health System rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 82 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

670th of 891 rated healthcare providers


Job description

At UK King's Daughters, we're not just a healthcare facility - we're a family of dedicated professionals who share a passion for making a meaningful difference in the lives of our patients. We're more than just a place to work; we're a place to grow, thrive, and contribute to our community.

Job Description:

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 regain movement, improve mobility, and manage pain. Assists with departmental tasks such as chart audits, general cleaning, and program development to support operational efficiency. Adheres to all organizational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements. Encourages patient participation and monitors progress to achieve optimal therapy outcomes.


Essential Functions

Collaborates with physical therapy staff, physicians, and interdisciplinary team members to coordinate and integrate patient care.

Implements physical therapy treatment plans by administering therapeutic exercises, modalities, and manual techniques.

Observes and evaluates patient responses to treatment, reporting progress and outcomes to the Physical Therapist.

Documents all patient care activities and outcomes accurately and timely in the electronic medical record.

Instructs, motivates, and assists patients in learning and improving functional activities.

Fits, adjusts, and trains patients in the use and care of orthopedic braces, prostheses, and supportive devices.

Educates patients and families on treatment procedures, home care, and safety precautions.

Provides orientation, training, and supervision to new employees, staff, and students as required.

Maintains required licensure, completes annual competencies, and ensures compliance with regulatory and accrediting standards.

Performs other duties as assigned.


Education Requirement

Associate's degree of Applied Science


Experience Requirement

0-2 years of experience in a healthcare, clinical setting, or a relevant area


An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

All experience must be paid and in the same related field.

Part-time and PRN experience will be prorated based on hours worked per week.

Volunteer work and internships for academic credit are not counted.


Certifications & Licensures

Active Physical Therapy license in applicable state, Basic Life Support (BLS), Driver's license if working Home Health


Working Conditions

A. Lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects up to 50lbs: 3. Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)

B. Lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects over 50lbs: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

C. Standing or walking with objects up to 10lbs: 4. Regular (> 50% of the time)

D. Standing or walking with objects up to 25lbs: 3. Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)

E. Sitting at computer workstation for extended periods: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

F. Risk of back injury from moving, lifting or positioning patients, equipment, or materials: 3. Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)

G. Repetitive motion: 3. Intermittent (10% - 50% of the time)

H. Working at heights above 4 feet: 1. Never

I. Working in confined spaces: 1. Never

J. Risk of injuries from use of equipment on the job: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

K. Job-related travel: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

L. Loud noises: 1. Never

M. Temperature extremes: 1. Never

N. Hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

O. Radiation: 1. Never

P. Burns: 1. Never

Q. Cuts/Punctures: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

R. Bloodborne/airborne pathogens: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

S. Recombinant DNA or viral vectors: 1. Never

T. Combative/violent people: 2. Occasional (< 10% of the time)

U. Animal handling (including carcasses): 1. Never

V. Please specify other(s) and amount of exposure (i.e. Occasional, Intermittent or Regular): N/A


Physical Demands

This position requires regular standing or walking with objects weighing up to 10 pounds; intermittent standing or walking with objects weighing up to 25 pounds; intermittent lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects weighing up to 50 pounds; occasional lifting, pushing, and/or pulling objects over 50 pounds; occasional sitting at a computer workstation for extended periods of time; and performing tasks with repetitive motions. Also involves intermittent risk of back injury from moving, lifting, or positioning patients, equipment, or materials; and occasional exposure to hazardous chemicals and fumes including waste, cuts/punctures, and bloodborne or airborne pathogens.


Additional Job Descriptions

N/A

Department:

Ortho Service Line

Shift:

Days (United States of America)

Time Type:

Full time

Address:

2201 Lexington Avenue

City, State:

Ashland, Kentucky

What King's Daughters Health System employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom