Gait and Posture Analysis in Wellington, the Hutt Valley and Surrounding Areas (and Online)

Discover the hidden physical causes behind behaviour changes, training struggles, or dips in performance

When behaviour and training aren't adding up, the answer might be physical

You know your dog better than anyone. When something feels off - they're avoiding activities they love, training has stalled, or their behaviour has shifted - trust your instinct.

Often, the missing link isn’t more training. It’s movement. A subtle change in gait or postural habit, or hidden discomfort can explain what you’re seeing.

Bridging the gap between behaviour and physical wellbeing - and working alongside your vet, trainer, or other professionals - I help uncover what's affecting your dog's comfort, behaviour and performance.

Your dog’s behaviour is communication - let’s listen to what they are saying.

Perfect for

These assessments are flexible, and they’re especially valuable if you’re…

Working with professionals already - and want a detailed movement analysis to provide missing context.
Exploring next steps - as an accessible entry point before committing to ongoing training or therapy.
Following a veterinary referral - where vet professionals trust my assessments to complement their clinical findings.
Optimising a sport or working dog - catching subtle changes before they impact performance or become significant issues.

Why hidden discomfort changes everything

Dogs are masters of disguise. They compensate, and mask pain. However, it shows up in their behaviour, mood, and learning. 

What looks like ‘stubbornness’ or a behavioural ‘problem’ often has physical roots.

The ripple effects include:

• Training slows down, and becomes inconsistent 
• Avoiding previously enjoyed activities
• Changes in energy, mood, or social behaviour
• Subtle performance dips in working or sport dogs

Early intervention keeps minor issues from becoming major problems. The outcome - transforming performance, comfort and behaviour (and less suffering).

What I include in your assessment

I do more than just look at your dog!  

I take a comprehensive look at how they move, ask about their rest and sleep habits, and review how they interact with their world. 

Here’s what that involves:

Movement analysis: walking, trotting, and natural movement patterns to spot asymmetries, stiffness, or compensation patterns.

Postural evaluation: how they stand, sit, lie down, and transition between those positions.

Physical indicators: muscle imbalances, coat changes, or unusual body positioning that signal discomfort.

Behavioural correlation: connecting movement findings with the changes you've observed at home.

Lifestyle factors: sleep patterns, activity preferences, and daily habits that provide crucial context.

Professional report: detailed findings compiled for your veterinary team, with recommendations for next steps.

Book Your Appointment

But, the vet says they're fine...

I hear this often, and your vet isn't wrong! They're working within real constraints.

As veterinary behaviourist Sarah Heath observes, “it is virtually impossible to detect chronic pain in a veterinary clinic consult room” The challenges of recognising chronic pain (Covey-Crump, Veterinary Practice, 2018)

Standard veterinary exams face unique challenges.

A standard vet exam is usually short, in a small space, on a slippery floor, and stressful.. Subtle gait or posture changes just don’t show up in that environment.

This doesn't reflect poor veterinary care. 

This doesn’t mean your vet missed something. We’re looking from different angles. 

My role is to provide what the clinical setting can't.

Extended observation time, a familiar environment and video review that complements your vet's clinical skills, not contradicts them.

In fact, I've worked with dogs where the initial vet assessment found nothing concerning, but after reviewing my reports, the vet suggested an extended follow-up consultation and appreciated having additional data to work with.

Your instincts matter. If something still feels off after a standard exam, that's valuable information and it’s worth investigating further.

In-person vs. online assessments

In-person (Wellington, Hutt Valley and surrounding areas): full hands-on evaluation in your dog's familiar environment.

Online (anywhere): During a video consult I'll guide you through capturing the specific footage I need for accurate analysis. Perfect for those further afield (and just as effective).

Both options deliver the same thorough assessment and professional report.

Working as part of your team

I enthusiastically collaborate with your existing professionals:

With veterinarians: providing movement-specific insights to complement clinical examinations.
With trainers: identifying physical factors that may be impacting training success.
With other therapists: adding behavioural context to treatment planning.

I work to support and enhance your current care team. This means more targeted care, less guesswork, and everyone working from the same page.

What happens next?

After your assessment, you'll receive:

• A detailed report with video documentation of my findings.
• Clear, tailored recommendations based on what I observed.
• Suggested next steps, which might include consulting your regular GP vet, seeking a specialist opinion, or specific therapies.

What you do with this information is entirely your choice - my role is to provide clarity on what I'm seeing so you can make informed decisions about your dog's care. 

I'm available for ongoing support as you implement your care plan, but there's no obligation - you're free to take your newfound clarity forward with your vet or other professionals. Many clients appreciate continued guidance, while others prefer to work independently with their vet team. I'm here if and when you need me.

Ready to get started?

Your dog doesn’t have to “live with it” - their comfort is worth investigating. Subtle changes today can turn into bigger problems tomorrow. The sooner you act, the easier they are to solve.

Book your assessment and get the clarity you - and your dog - deserve.

Trusted by veterinarians and recommended by dog professionals.

Let’s make your dog’s day better. Starting today.

In-home appointments at your place are available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.