About Me
Hi. I'm Karen Valu. I'm a veterinarian and certified canine rehabilitation therapist, based in Kaiapoi, Canterbury.
I graduated with my Bachelor of Veterinary Science degree from Massey University in 2007. I worked in general practice as a small animal veterinarian for 13 years and in the past 4 years I have been working and developing my skills in the field of veterinary rehabilitation.
In 2023 I achieved my rehabilitation certification through the canine rehabilitation institute in Missouri.
I have also completed several Veterinary Masters level papers, including Neurology and Radiology. I am also Fear Free Certified and Walkin' Wheels Certified.
I adore the field of Veterinary Rehabilitation. It is extremely rewarding watching the positive changes that can be achieved for many animals. As a veterinarian I have an excellent understanding of animal body systems and concurrent diseases that may also be occurring in your pet.
I have four of my own pets - one dog (Odie) and three cats (Simba, TeeJay and Narissa). I am very passionate about animal rescue and adoption and also run regular fundraising for rescue groups.
Bow
Bow was the reason I fell in love with Veterinary Rehabilitation, so he needs a special mention.
When Bow was six years old he suffered a fibrocartilagenous embolism (AKA spinal stroke). One moment he was chasing a ball, the next he was unable to use his hind legs. As a veterinarian there was little I could do for Bow, beyond managing his pain with medication.
I took Bow to a local animal physiotherapist. With her help, he learned how to walk again. While he never regained completely normal function, he was able to go for walks (with a bootie on his slow foot). We continued to take him for regular physiotherapy until he passed away. Bow was given a fantastic quality of life and we will always be grateful.
