Supporting Veterinary Care Through Canine Conditioning

Dear Veterinary Professional,

Thank you for taking the time to visit this page and learn more about how I work, and how my services can complement the care you provide.

My name is Tracey Jones-Hughes, and I am a Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer, qualified in Canine Massage and Therapeutic Exercise and Rehabilitation. I am also an experienced dog trainer and a member of the International Association of Animal Therapists.

My role is to support dogs and their owners with tailored conditioning plans, therapeutic exercises, and gentle bodywork to enhance strength, flexibility, balance, and body awareness. While I do not diagnose or treat medical conditions, my work focuses on supporting overall wellbeing and helping owners recognise subtle changes that may warrant veterinary attention. My services are designed to work alongside veterinary care, never instead of it.

Qualifications and Background

✔️ Certified Professional Canine Fitness Trainer (CPCFT)
This qualification involved extensive coursework, hands-on practical work, multiple case studies, and a final exam requiring a minimum pass mark of 82%. The process, which typically takes 12-18 months, ensures thorough knowledge of safe, effective conditioning for dogs of all ages and abilities.

✔️ Distinction in Canine Sports Massage (The College of Animal Physiotherapy)
This qualification involved intensive hands-on practice, case studies, and a final examination, focusing on techniques to ease muscular tension, improve circulation, and support comfort and mobility.

✔️ Diploma in Canine Exercise Rehabilitation (Animal Rehabilitation & Health Academy)
Designed by Veterinary Physiotherapist Katie Lawrence, this diploma covers therapeutic exercise program design to support recovery, strength-building, and injury prevention. Assessment involved coursework and practical case studies.

✔️ Experienced Dog Trainer
My background in behaviour and training allows me to understand each dog's temperament, learning style, and motivational needs, which is especially helpful when introducing new exercises to both dogs and their owners. This ensures programmes are practical, positive, and achievable for each individual dog.

Tailored Support for Your Clients

All conditioning and therapeutic exercise plans are custom-designed based on the dog's age, breed, lifestyle, and health history. Every exercise is demonstrated to the owner, with careful attention to correct form, safety, and gradual progression. I monitor progress closely and make changes as needed based on feedback from both dog and owner.

My services are especially beneficial for:
✔️ Senior dogs who would benefit from improved strength, balance, and flexibility to support healthy ageing.
✔️ Dogs recovering from injury (post-veterinary diagnosis, initial treatment and physiotherapy), who need safe, structured exercises to continue building muscle strength
✔️ Active dogs who benefit from injury prevention work, improving core stability, body awareness, and range of motion.

Professional Memberships and Insurance

I am a member of the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT) and hold comprehensive insurance for:

  • Canine massage and therapeutic exercise (via Balens)

  • Training and behavior services (via Pet Business Insurance)

I am always clear with clients that my work is not a substitute for veterinary care, and I will always refer back to the vet if I have any concerns outside my professional remit.

Incorporating pEMF Therapy

I also offer pulsed electromagnetic field (pEMF) therapy alongside massage, following veterinary consent. This non-invasive, evidence-supported therapy can support:

  • Circulation and tissue oxygenation

  • Tissue repair

  • Comfort and recovery

Collaboration for the Best Outcomes

I believe strongly in open communication and collaborative care between therapists and veterinary professionals. If you’d like to discuss a specific case, ask any questions, or explore how my services could complement your practice, I’d love to hear from you.

📧 Email: hello@shapingdogs.com