Canine Sports Medicine

Course Description

This three (3) day 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.

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Course Eligibility:

Licensed veterinarians, physical therapists, and occupational therapists

Licensed veterinary technicians

Non-credentialed veterinary assistant:

• Has at least one (1) year of veterinary experience
• Submit a current Letter of Recommendation from their rehab-certified supervising veterinarian, physical therapist or occupational therapist.

Students (veterinary, veterinary technicians, physical therapy, and occupational therapy):

• Completed the first year of their professional program

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Course Curriculum:

This course focuses on performance, injury prevention, and rehabilitation strategies for the canine athlete, blending science with practical application.

• Foundations of Canine Sports & Performance
  Explore the fundamentals of canine sports, including sport-specific demands, structure, biomechanics, and locomotion. Understand how form influences function and athletic potential.
• Movement Mechanics & Gait Assessment
  Learn the principles of canine gait, jumping biomechanics, and locomotion. Gain practical skills in movement analysis, including the Zink lameness exam and gait retraining techniques.
• Conditioning & Injury Prevention
  Design injury-prevention programs using strength, flexibility, stretching, and proprioception exercises. Tailor conditioning plans to support both prehab and long-term wellness.
• Injuries & Rehabilitation in Canine Athletes
  Identify common athletic injuries and their causes. Learn evidence-based treatment strategies and develop retraining programs to safely return dogs to sport.
• Nutrition & Ergogenic Support
  Understand the nutritional needs of active dogs and the role of supplements and ergogenic aids. Explore ethical and legal considerations in performance-enhancing substances.
• Case Studies & Clinical Application
  Apply what you've learned through guided student case studies. Practice clinical reasoning and treatment planning in real-world athletic scenarios.

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Course Instructor:

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Course Information:

In-Person: 3 days at Purina Farms Event Center in Gray Summit, MO

In-Person Daily Hours:

• Days 1 - 2: 8:00am-5:00pm Central Time, USA
• Day 3: 8:00am-12:00pm Central Time, USA
• 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.

RACE Pending: 20 credit hours by the AAVSB

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Course Price and Location:

Course Fee: $1,989 - Gray Summit, Missouri

• Full payment of course fee is required to secure your seat

Course Location: 300 Checkerboard Dr, Gray Summit, MO 63039 USA

Travel Information: Click FAQs at the bottom of the page for more information

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2025 Class Date:

September 30 - October 2, 2025 (SOLD OUT)

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