Canine Sports Medicine

Course Description

This course offers both foundational and advanced knowledge about canine sporting dogs. You will learn from the world-renowned specialist Dr. Chris Zink through lectures and extensive hands-on labs. Class sessions will include observing athletic events in conjunction with the 2025 National Specialty Border Collies Society of America competition event at Purina Farms, with Dr. Zink providing narration and insights during the events. This is an incredible opportunity for those looking to enhance their skills in evaluating and treating canine athletes.

Prerequisites:

This course consists of 2.5 days of in-person, hands-on learning. The course is worth 20 hours of CE credit. The course is open to licensed veterinarians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and veterinary technicians/nurses. Veterinary students, physical therapy students, and occupational therapy students are also welcome to attend. Non-credentialed veterinary assistants must submit a Letter of Recommendation from their supervising rehabilitation-certified veterinarian, physical therapist, or occupational therapist to be eligible to attend.

RACE Approved for 20 Credit hours by the AAVSB

Race Approval Pending

Note: The last day of class ends early to allow students the opportunity to return home that evening. Do not make airline reservations that require you to depart class before 12:00 P.M.

2025 Class Date:

September 30 - October 2, 2025

Course Instructors:

• Chris Zink, DVM, PhD, DACVP, DACVSMR, CVA, CVMT, CCRT

Topics Covered:

Introduction to Canine Sports

Canine Structure and Biomechanics

Canine Locomotion

Canine Jumping Principles and Biomechanics

Nutrition for the Canine Athlete

Ergogenic Drugs

Zink Lameness Examination

Fitness and Structure Assessment

Canine Conditioning for Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation

Assessing and Training Canine Gait

Canine Conditioning for Injury Prevention and Rehabilitation

Conditioning, Stretching & Proprioception Exercises

Injuries in the Canine Athlete–Causes, Treatment, Rehabilitation

Developing Retraining Programs for the Canine Athlete

Student Case Studies

Course Price:

$1,989

Class Times:

Day 1 & 2: 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. CST

Day 3: 8 A.M. to 12 P.M. CST

Note: The last day of class ends early to allow students the opportunity to return home that evening. Do not make airline reservations that require you to depart class before 12:00 P.M.

Course Location:

Purina Farms - Purina Event Center

300 Checkerboard Dr, Gray Summit, MO 63039