About VJP Veterinary Rehabilitation

Vikki Purves 
BSc(Hons), L3 Cert SA Hydro, AdvCertVPhys, MIRVAP (VP)(ICH), MCHA
VJP Veterinary Rehabilitation is owned by Victoria Purves. Vikki graduated from Hartpury College in 2015 with a first class honours in Bioveterinary Science, on completion of her degree she went on to complete her Level 3 Certificate in Small Animal Hydrotherapy and worked for 3 years as canine hydrotherapist in a Gloucestershire based centre. Her knowledge of rehabilitation has been expanded while treating a diverse range of patients including those with: elbow/hip dysplasia, cruciate ruptures, arthritis and more complex neurological conditions. 

Vikki went on to complete a Masters level; Advanced Certificate in Veterinary Physiotherapy. This was through Canine and Equine Physiotherapy Training (CEPT) and accredited with Middlesex University. Throughout the two year course Vikki undertook numerous theory based assignments which consolidated and enhanced her knowledge of the underpinning theory behind biomechanics, disease and the use of various modalities used in Veterinary Physiotherapy treatments. Practical elements of the course enabled her to work alongside highly qualified veterinary physiotherapists developing her technique, treatments and use of electrotherapies. 

In 2018 Vikki went on to set up her own rehabilitation clinic based at Abingdon and Witney College's - Common Leys Farm, Witney. Here she offers both canine hydrotherapy and veterinary physiotherapy in a purpose built centre. The clinic strives to provide a calm, therapeutic environment that is centred around the patient. Vikki also provides equine physiotherapy in Oxfordshire and surrounding counties; treating horses for rehabilitation, maintenance or to enhance performance. 

Since 2019 Vikki has been part of the lecturing team at Oxford Brookes University and teaching students on a variety of topics relating to Animal Therapy and Rehabilitation. She is also on the board of directors for the Canine Hydrotherapy Association, the CHA is a professional industry leader at the forefront of Veterinary Hydrotherapy. Vikki is also accredited to the Institute of Registered Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapists (IRVAP) which provides stringent guidelines to promote effective and safe practice in all elements of veterinary physiotherapy. As part of both associations she completes CPD to continue to develop her practice and keep up to date with the ever expanding breadth of research. 

Outside of work Vikki also has two black Labradors and three horses to keep her busy in her free time!

Steph Holland
BSc(Hons), L3 Cert SA Hydro, MCHA

In 2018 Steph enrolled on a FdSc Animal Behaviour and Welfare degree with Oxford Brookes University. After her first year she developed a keen interest in hydrotherapy and so switched onto the FdSc Animal Therapy and Rehabilitation degree. Steph’s knowledge on nutrition, animal therapy, canine anatomy and welfare developed until her graduation in 2020. It was at this point that Steph started to bring her Labrador, Koda, to VJP Veterinary Rehabilitation for Hydrotherapy and Physiotherapy.


After the Foundation degree Steph went on to complete a BSc (Hons) Animal Therapy & Rehabilitation gaining an amazing Upper Second Class Honours in 2021. Steph also conducted her dissertation on hydrotherapy assessing the impact of hydrotherapy on weight bearing in cases of canine hip dysplasia. Alongside her degree Steph also completed her Level 3 Certificate in Small Animal Hydrotherapy as well as choosing to complete additional work experience at VJP Vet Rehab to further her skillset. We are not sure quite sure how she found time for it all!


In April 2021, Steph started work at VJP Vet Rehab and has developed her skills and knowledge further completing both in house and external training. Steph is also a member of the Canine Hydrotherapy Association and works within their guidelines, offering a safe, therapeutic environment as well as completing regular CPD courses to update and further her knowledge as new research and methods are released.


Outside of work Steph has two Labradors that keep her busy and frequently visit the clinic for hydrotherapy. Everyone gets very wet when Bailey is about!