iPET Network Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage – Qualification Number 610/4035/6 (link to qualification on Ofqual register)

The iPET Network Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage qualification has been designed to cater to individuals aspiring to become Animal Sports Massage Therapists and/or progress towards becoming Veterinary Physiotherapists. The qualification is also suitable for those currently working as an Animal Sports Massage Therapist or Veterinary Physiotherapist seeking formal recognition through a regulated qualification. This comprehensive qualification covers theoretical learning across a variety of animal species, with the practical elements focusing on the two main species of canines and equines. 

Upon completion of the iPET Network Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage, Candidates are eligible to register for the iPET Network Level 5 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation. Subsequent successful completion of the Level 5 allows Candidates to study the iPET Network Level 6 Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy, which will allow Candidates to qualify as a Veterinary Physiotherapist.

The qualification comprises of a balance of theoretical and practical learning to ensure Candidates have the knowledge and practical skills required to provide animal sports massage. Candidates will develop study skills, engage in reflective practice, and acquire knowledge in personal and professional development areas such as mental health, self-care, time management, communication skills, personal branding, CV creation and basic business management skills.

The qualification introduces physiotherapy principles and the ethical, professional and legal standards, alongside health and safety standards and regulations, relevant to animal sports massage. Candidates will gain an understanding of animal welfare, health and behaviour including relevant legislation. Fundamentals of anatomy and musculoskeletal anatomy are covered extensively to provide a solid foundation for understanding structure and function. 

Practical training is a significant component of the qualification, with Candidates completing a minimum of 200 hours of practical training to develop the required skills and clinical competence as Animal Sports Massage Therapists. This practical experience creates a strong foundation for further study as an Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation Therapist and eventual progression, if desired, as a Veterinary Physiotherapist.  

The qualification has been developed under the guidance of industry experts, to ensure the outcome is appropriate for the animal massage and physiotherapy industry and sets high standards of education within the sector.

iPET Network believes that this qualification has been designed to align with criteria set by the voluntary industry regulator, the Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP). iPET Network has gained consultation from RAMP during the development phase of the suite of qualifications, which includes the Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage, Level 5 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage and Rehabilitation, and Level 6 Diploma in Veterinary Physiotherapy.

The suite of qualifications is listed on the Ofqual register of regulated qualifications and we believe they will satisfy the requirements set by RAMP. One of the requirements being that for RAMP to consider an AEP/REP application for a qualification(s), the qualification(s) must possess a verified academic learning level.

Training Providers delivering this qualification will then be able to apply to RAMP for assessment, if desired, to attain Recognised Educational Providers (REP) status for their delivery of the Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage.

iPET Network are delighted to announce that The Academy Of Veterinary Physiotherapy has gained Recognised (REP status) from RAMP for their delivery of the iPET Network Level 4 Diploma in Animal Sports Massage. 

Please be aware that the accreditation process by RAMP applies specifically to the delivery of our qualifications by each individual Training Provider. Therefore, any other interested Training Providers would need to apply to RAMP for assessment if they choose to pursue accreditation.

On successful completion of the qualification, Candidates can work as a Veterinary Physiotherapist and subject to requirements and successful application, join membership organisations. Further study at a higher level is also a progression option following completion of this qualification.

This qualification has been designed to enable Candidates to:

• Develop study skills and engage in reflective practice

• Understand personal and professional development

• Understand the legal, ethical, professional and health and safety standards required in the field of Veterinary Physiotherapy 

• Understand animal legislation and the principles of animal health, welfare and behaviour

• Understand safe animal handling and first aid principles

• Understand animal anatomy and physiology and key anatomical terminology

• Understand musculoskeletal anatomy, including tendons, ligaments, fascia and soft tissue pathologies 

• Understand musculoskeletal anatomy including structure and function, and comparative anatomy

• Understand the applications of animal sports massage and the main techniques used

• Be able to work safely with animals, considering biosecurity, health, safety and welfare 

• Demonstrate taking client history and signalment

• Demonstrate static, dynamic and physical assessment of canines and equines 

• Demonstrate identification of soft tissue pathologies and the application of appropriate soft tissue techniques

• Complete clinical practice and demonstrate the ability to work with the Multidisciplinary Team 

The qualification consists of seven theory and practical units (all units are mandatory):

Unit 425: Study Skills and Reflective Practice

Unit 426: Personal and Professional Development

Unit 427: Professional Practice in the Animal Physiotherapy Sector

Unit 428: Animal Health, Welfare and Behaviour

Unit 429: Anatomy and Physiology of Animals 

Unit 430: Musculoskeletal Anatomy

Unit 431: Animal Sports Massage Clinical Competency and Practice

EDUCATION FOR PEOPLE, FOR PETS, FOR THE FUTURE