Meet the Team
Vicky - Owner & NARCH Registered Level 4 Canine Hydrotherapist
Vicky first became aware of Canine Hydrotherapy after her own dog suffered a cruciate ligament injury which required surgery. For his recovery the surgeon recommended Hydrotherapy.
Interested in the benefits of these sessions Vicky started a new career, working firstly as a Canine Hydrotherapy Assistant, and soon after training at one of the worlds greatest Rehabilitation and Hydrotherapy training centres – Greyfriars in Surrey, England. She has now been qualified for over 10 years!
Vicky is a fully accredited member of the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (NARCH), which ensures staff are trained in all aspects of Hydrotherapy, first aid and pool water management. In addition, the association monitors and ensures all members abide by quality standards, so referring vets, owners and their dogs receive a professional, caring service. She holds many certificates in Hydrotherapy, and each year completes many hours of CPD ensuring she will always be up to date with all techniques and treatments.
Olivia - NARCH Registered Level 3 Canine Hydrotherapist -BSc Animal Science
Olivia has been working as a Hydrotherapist since 2007. Prior to that she worked as a Veterinary Nurse.
Since 2007 she has gained many certificates in Small Animal Hydrotherapy, and every year continues to develop her knowledge through continued professional development, meaning she keeps up to date with the latest techniques and protocols.
Olivia has always had a passion for dogs and a great interest in alternative therapies. Her years of experience means she has treated many breeds and conditions.
She works part time at FVCHC, when not at work you can find her looking after her 2 children and dogs; Border Terrier Dora and Labrador Dolly.
Alex - Canine Hydrotherapy Assistant
Alex started working at a Hydrotherapy centre back in 2014, when two of her own Spaniels suffered joint injuries in the same weekend. Both needed surgery/rehabilitation, and she loved seeing how alternative therapies can improve a dogs quality of life. She loves all of the dogs that come to the centre, how excited they are to see the team and how much they enjoy their sessions.
With a decade of experience working in Hydrotherapy Alex is passionate about all things dogs - training, genetics, nutrition and is always accompanied by a dog or 3! Alex is lucky enough to have a home full of dogs including Cockers, Springers, Terriers, Labrador, Collie and most recently a Toy Poodle Puppy! She also fosters and rehabilitates some really special dogs.
An avid RAW feeder, always ready to share insights and advice. She can also be found at Dogs Rock Dog Spa helping make dogs look pretty.
Millie - NARCH Registered Level 3 Canine Hydrotherapist
Millie began at Five Valleys in 2022 as work experience during her Level 3 Animal Managment Diploma at Hartpury college, completing the course with a triple distinction. Her work experience taught her so much and solidified her love for Hydrotherapy, following this she began her Canine Hydrotherapy qualification at Greyfriars Training & Rehabilitation centre.
Alongside Five Valleys she also works at Teckles Animal Sanctuary, mainly working with the rescue Dogs which she find very rewarding. This has broadened her knowledge on behaviours and breeds, transferring this into the Hydrotherapy setting to develop her confidence as a Hydrotherapist.
In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her Labradors and special Spaniels, or riding her two little Ponies!
Kyra - Level 7 (MSc) Qualified Veterinary Physiotherapist and NARCH Registered Level 4 Canine Hydrotherapist
Kyra has always been passionate and enthusiastic for Veterinary Science and Animal Welfare, first graduating a BSc (Hons) in Equine Therapy and Rehabilitation in 2019. Keen to expand her knowledge she progressed onto MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy at the University of Nottingham in 2019, and graduated in 2022.
Alongside her MSc studies Kyra also obtained a Level 4 in Canine Hydrotherapy for Veterinary Physiotherapists. Following the completion of her PgD in Veterinary Physiotherapy, prior to her MSc, Kyra set up K Wakeman Vet Physio in 2021 with the determination of supporting rehabilitation of many cases and works alongside the team at Five Valleys Hydrotherapy.
Emily - BSc (Hons) Qualified Veterinary Physiotherapist MNAVP
Emily qualified from Harper Adams University in 2019 with a BSc(Hons) but began working with the Five Valleys Hydro team in 2017 on placement. She has a passion for Canine Physiotherapy and enjoys treating pets for maintenance as well as managing veterinary referral cases. Her particular specialisms are the management of older dogs and chronic elbow conditions in athletic dogs.
Emily currently sits on the Executive Committee of the NAVP. When not working you can find her with her Cocker Spaniel Tilly or as a keen Horse rider with Paris her 10 year old sports Horse and Tigger the Shetland Pony.