Katrinka Geelen

Animal Physiotherapist
BHSC (OT) Cert VN BHSC (PT) PG Dip (Vet Pty) MSc (Vet Pty)
  • Bachelor Health Science (Occupational Therapy)
  • Bachelor Health Science (Physiotherapy)
  • Certified Veterinary Nurse
  • Postgraduate Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy
  • Masters Degree Veterinary Physiotherapy

Katrinka Geelen

Animal Physiotherapist
BHSC (OT) Cert VN BHSC (PT) PG Dip (Vet Pty) MSc (Vet Pty)
  • Bachelor Health Science (Occupational Therapy)
  • Bachelor Health Science (Physiotherapy)
  • Certified Veterinary Nurse
  • Postgraduate Diploma Veterinary Physiotherapy
  • Masters Degree Veterinary Physiotherapy

Katrinka's Interview on The Dog Podcast™

Join us for the The Dog Podcast™ where Charlotte Bryan interviews Animal Physiotherapist Katrinka Geelen on key factors impacting canine health.

Katrinka discusses:

  • Bedding and Lying Down: How hard floors affect joints and the importance of choosing the right orthopaedic bed.
  • Exercise Routines: The effects of fetch, running on different surfaces, and the importance of warming up and cooling down.
  • Jumping and Mobility: Risks of dogs jumping on and off furniture, and the impact of stairs on joint health.
  • Puppy Growth and Development: Understanding growth plates and safe exercise for young dogs.
  • Caring for Senior Dogs: Managing mobility and exercise to protect aging joints.
  • Agility and Swimming: Benefits and risks of these popular activities.
  • Joint Health: Insights into cruciate ligament injuries and arthritis management.
  • Training Tools: The effects of different harnesses, collars, and overgrown nails on a dog’s health.

Tune in for expert advice on maintaining your dog’s health at every life stage.

Katrinka Geelen: Animal Physiotherapist

Katrinka is a qualified Physiotherapist, a member of the Australian Physiotherapy Association, and representative for APA Animal Physiotherapy Group. She has recently completed an MSc Veterinary Physiotherapy at the University of Liverpool.

Katrinka entered the veterinary industry in 2006 as a veterinary nurse.  Her passion for animal rehabilitation led to the pursuit of a career in human physiotherapy, with the intention of transferring her physiotherapy skills to animal care.  Katrinka made the transition to animal physiotherapy in 2017, and began working at the Small Animal Specialist Hospital in Sydney.  In 2020 she relocated to the Sunshine Coast and launched her own business, Optima Animal Physio, which provides services to small animal Veterinary Specialist Centres in Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, as well as treating performance dogs and horses.

Katrinka has a special interest in postoperative rehabilitation of animals following orthopaedic and spinal surgery, as well as performance dogs and horses, and beloved family pets.  Katrinka is passionate about animal physiotherapy and its unique complement to veterinary medicine, and thrives on helping patients return to their optimal function and performance.

Outside of physiotherapy, Katrinka is a keen sportswoman, competing in bike racing around the country.  When not working or training, you are likely to find her exploring the great outdoors.

Katrinka's Speciality

Katrinka is a dedicated expert in postoperative rehabilitation for animals, with a particular focus on orthopaedic and spinal recovery. Her passion lies in animal physiotherapy, where she blends her skills with veterinary medicine to help patients achieve optimal function and performance.

Whether working with performance dogs, horses, or beloved family pets, Katrinka thrives on guiding animals through their recovery journey. Her tailored rehabilitation programs are designed to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and enhance overall well-being, ensuring that every animal can return to their best possible condition.

With her expertise in postoperative care and physiotherapy, Katrinka is committed to making a profound positive impact on the lives of her patients and their caregivers.

katrinka geelen - guest on The Dog Podcast - physiotherapy

Animal Physiotherapy

About Optima Animal Physio

OPTIMA Animal Physio, located on the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Queensland, is renowned for its compassionate and effective animal physiotherapy services. Their dedication to holistic, personalised care sets them apart in the industry.

Services Offered:

  • Injury Rehabilitation: Tailored programs to help animals recover from injuries and regain their strength.
  • Post-Surgical Recovery: Specialised care to ensure a smooth and effective recovery after surgery.
  • Pain Management: Techniques to alleviate chronic pain and improve quality of life.
  • Mobility Enhancement: Activities designed to enhance mobility and overall physical health.
  • Senior Animal Care: Low-impact therapies to keep older animals healthy and active.

Animal Physiotherapy Specialists: OPTIMA Animal Physio, led by a team of highly skilled professionals, educates pet owners about the importance of physiotherapy and how it can improve their pets’ lives. By understanding each animal’s unique needs, they create effective treatment plans that foster well-being and recovery.

Visit the OPTIMA Animal Physio website at www.optimaanimalphysio.com.au.