Who am I?

Many aspects of the animal health

I am Julija Rusteikaite, Small Animal Physical Therapist, and Veterinary Technician. I grew up in Lithuania surrounded by various animals and I was always occupied with their well being. After my studies in Veterinary Science, I have worked for more than 7 years in various veterinary clinics as a veterinary nurse. During that time I was able to gain a lot of experience in the veterinary field. Yet still, I always found that there are many more ways to help animals. That is why I decided to study further and get certified as an Animal Physical Therapist and Acupuncturist. In 2020 I have finished my studies at ATM, Akademie für Tiernaturheilkunde, and became a certified Canine Physical Therapist.

During the time of my training, I had an opportunity to improve my knowledge and skills in animal anatomy, physiology, pathology, and alternative ways of healing. I learned a lot not only about the musculoskeletal system but also about general anatomy, physiology, internal medicine, neurology, nutrition, sports medicine, and more. I find this knowledge very important while working with animals. You shouldn't focus solely on an animal's musculoskeletal system and ignore other problems it may also have. Holistic knowledge and approach are very important in order to successfully treat an animal.

In addition to my knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology, I also use my knowledge of animal behavior, Reiki and TCVM in therapy. This makes the therapy session more relaxed and enjoyable for your animal.

My two dogs Kreta & Ziggy and two OSH boys accompany me in my daily life.

Good life quality despite old age and osteoarthritis

My beloved dog Wunjo was my biggest inspiration to choose the path of an Animal Physical Therapist. He was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis when he was 8 years old. Since then I started to study multimodal options for pain management. While trying to find different ways to help him, I had learned the importance of a multimodal approach to treating degenerative diseases. With the help of physiotherapy, acupuncture and collaboration with our veterinarian, Wunjo was able to enjoy a good quality of life well into old age.

Unfortunately, Wunjo is no longer with us, but he continues to inspire me to help other animals. I want everyone to have the opportunity to enjoy the company of their pets for longer and for other older animals to be able to live happily and pain-free despite age and osteoarthritis. For this reason, osteoarthritis and other degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system in small animals are one of my main focuses. I try to constantly improve my knowledge of new ways to combat these diseases.

Qualifications and Further Training

Education

2017-2021 Training in Veterinary Acupuncture at Akademie für Tiernaturheilkunde (ATM), Germany

2017-2020 Completed Training and Certification for Canine Physiotherapy at ATM, Germany

2010-2011 Erasmus Programme in Veterinary Medicine at Adnan Menderes University, Aydin, Turkey

2008-2011 Bachelor's Degree in Veterinary Sciences and Qualification in Veterinary Nursing at the University of Applied Sciences, Vilnius, Lithuania

Seminars and Continuous Learning

03/2025 Muscles & Connective Tissue. Structure-Function-Development with Prof. Dr. Martin Fischer
01/2024 Myofascial Techniques in Small Animals with Solange Mikail
01/2024 Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction in Dogs with Rick Wall
12/2023 Hip Dysplasia - Part 2: Conservative & Rehabilitation Management with Dr. Davic Dycus
12/2023 Hip Dysplasia - Part 1: For Young and Old with Dr. David Dycus

11/2023 Tail Wagging Treatments: Fear Free in Veterinary Rehab Settings
01/2023 Patella Luxation in The Canine Patient with Ansi van der Walt
02/2023 Unlocking the Mystery of Polyarthritis in Dogs with Kara Amstutz
11/2022 Tripods & Prosthetics: How to Care for Our 3-Legged Friends
10/2022 Webinar: Rehabilitation for the cat with Dr. Debbie Torraca
10/2022 Webinar: Rehab of the canine amputee with Marinette Teeling
06/2021 Online Course ''Kinesiology Taping for Dogs'' at Dogtisch Academy
05/2021 CAMadvocate Level 1. A canine professional's guide to early identification and successful management of canine osteoarthritis
03/2021 Canine Arthritis and Pain Physiology 1 Hour Bitesize CPD
01/2021 - MSS: Medial Shoulder Syndrome- Why is this becoming so common and how do you prevent it
11/2020 Webinar: Fascia- One Muscle in Six Hundred Pockets with Lowri Davies
11/2020 Webinar: Acupuncture- Ancient Art to 21st Century Science with Lowrie Davies

4/2020 Webinar Novafon. Function and correct application in animal therapy
6/2018 - 8/2018 Online course ‘’Biology of dogs’’, Institute of Canine Biology
8/2014 - 9/2014 Online course ‘’Animal Behaviour and Welfare’’, The University of Edinburgh (Coursera)