Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) – Academic program in canine physiotherapy and rehabilitation
The world’s leading education program in canine rehabilitation and veterinary physiotherapy – scientifically grounded, clinically proven, and flexibly structured.
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Course language: English

The Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) program is the internationally recognized continuing education standard in the field of veterinary rehabilitation and canine sports medicine. Developed by the University of Tennessee (USA) in collaboration with the Veterinary Academy of Higher Learning (VAHL), it was the first university-based program of its kind worldwide – and remains the gold standard for professionals in veterinary medicine and physiotherapy.

World-leading program in canine rehabilitation and physiotherapy

The CCRP program is designed for veterinarians, physical therapists, veterinary nurses/technicians, and related professionals seeking to specialize in canine rehabilitation, postoperative care, pain management, and mobility enhancement.

Since 2005, the program has been successfully established in Europe. As of 2022, VAHL is the exclusive global education partner of the University of Tennessee – making the CCRP program available worldwide, including Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia.

Content & structure: Learn flexibly, apply clinically

The CCRP program is structured in modular format and follows a hybrid blended learning approach. By combining e-learning, on-site lab days, clinical case studies, an externship, and a final examination, the program offers maximum flexibility while maintaining the highest academic standards.

What you will learn in the CCPR program

  • Evidence-based foundations of canine physiotherapy

 

  • Orthopedic and neurological examination techniques

 

  • Anatomy, gait analysis, and lameness diagnostics

 

  • Use of rehabilitation modalities such as laser therapy, EMS, ultrasound, and shockwave

 

  • Development and implementation of individualized therapy plans

 

  • Outcome measurement: goniometry, muscle circumference, functional testing

 

  • Hands-on training days with live dogs

 

  • Individual externship (possible worldwide)

 

7 modules – Practical, flexible, and career-compatible

The CCRP program is divided into the following modules:

Canine I: Online lecture series (12 hours)

This module addresses the legal framework of the rehabilitation field from both the veterinary and physiotherapy perspectives. It discusses the physiological response of tissues to inactivity and remobilization and applies this knowledge to clinical rehabilitation scenarios.

Participants receive an overview of basic comparative anatomy and are introduced to common orthopedic and neurologic conditions seen in canine patients. Interprofessional collaboration between veterinarians and physical therapists is emphasized to enhance the learning experience.

The module also includes guidance on how to enter clinical practice and how to develop structured treatment protocols.

Part I

This module introduces participants to the didactic and clinical applications of selected physical agent modalities used in canine physical rehabilitation. Topics include superficial heat and cold therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, laser therapy, and neuromuscular electrical stimulation.

Part II

This module provides foundational knowledge for designing and implementing therapeutic treatment programs for dogs. Benefits and risks of rehabilitation programs are discussed, along with methods for assessing treatment outcomes. Topics include range of motion, strengthening exercises, aquatic therapy, and exercises for wellness and prevention.

Exceptions: Courses conducted at university locations may vary.

In this module, participants gain hands-on experience with selected physical modalities used in canine rehabilitation. These include superficial heat and cold applications, therapeutic ultrasound, extracorporeal shockwave therapy, laser therapy, and electrical stimulation.

Anatomical palpation on live dogs is used to review key anatomical structures relevant to rehabilitation. The course also equips participants with the fundamental skills needed to design and implement therapeutic treatment programs for canine patients. Benefits and risks of rehabilitation protocols are discussed in detail.

A particular emphasis is placed on outcome measurement techniques, such as goniometry and muscle circumference evaluation. Orthopedic and neurologic assessments of rehabilitation patients are reviewed and practiced under supervision.

This module covers the basic principles of osteoarthritis. To understand the pathophysiology of this condition, participants must first grasp the importance of normal cartilage structure and function, as well as the concept of the joint as a functional organ.

The focus is not limited to treating articular cartilage but extends to the rehabilitation of the entire joint complex. A comprehensive understanding of osteoarthritis pathophysiology enables students to assess the effectiveness of various treatment options, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Note: This module may be completed prior to attending the on-site lab days in Canine III & IV.

Part I

40 hours of training (externship)

Part II

  • Guidelines for case reports will be provided and discussed during the on-site lab days.
  • Completion of Canine I through IV is required before beginning this module. A case report format and example will be provided and must be followed precisely.

Case reports must be submitted in the following areas:

  • Orthopedic – two cases

  • Neurologic – two cases

  • Additional case (may include another species) – one case

Each case report must document at least eight treatment sessions. The estimated time requirement per case, including documentation, is approximately 40 hours.

Part I

150 multiple-choice questions
Duration: 3.5 hours

Part II & III

Practical and oral examination
Duration: 30 minutes

All previous modules (Canine I–VI) must be completed prior to registering for the final exam.

Most participants complete the CCRP program within 1 to 3 years. Access to the e-learning platform is guaranteed for 3 years and can be extended if needed.

Why CCRP? Your benefits at a glance

  • Internationally recognized university certificate
  • Modern and evidence-based curriculum
  • Direct clinical application with real canine patients
  • Maximum flexibility through blended learning
  • Career development for clinic, referral, or private practice settings
  • Academic support from international faculty and the VAHL team

Tuition & included services

Program fee: €7,995
Installment payment is possible.

Included:

  • Access to the online learning platform (valid for 3 years)

  • Participation in on-site lab days (including catering)

  • Supervision and evaluation of case reports

  • Final examination

  • Certificate issued by the University of Tennessee

Not included:

  • Travel and accommodation costs

  • Possible externship site fees (most externship sites are free of charge)

Admission requirements

Eligible participants include:

  • Veterinarians

  • Physical therapists

  • Veterinary nurses/technicians (e.g. TFA, Vet Tech)

  • Occupational therapists

  • Students enrolled in the above-mentioned programs

If you are unsure whether your background qualifies, feel free to submit your CV and proof of education to: office@vahl.vet

Contact

You still have questions? Feel free to contact us:

VAHL Headquarters: office@vahl.vet

VAHL North America: office@vahl.vet

Or use our Contact Form 

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