Dr K (Karen Valu)
Veterinarian, Rehab Therapist, Acupuncturist
Hi. I'm Karen Valu. I'm a veterinarian, certified canine rehabilitation therapist and certified veterinary acupuncture therapist. I am 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. In 2026 I returned to Missouri to complete my acupuncture certification
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.
Rochelle Erxleben
Physiotherapist
Rochelle graduated with a Bachelor of Physiotherapy from the University of Pretoria in South Africa in 2011. Since then, she has worked across both public and private clinical settings, gaining broad experience in physiotherapy and developing a strong passion for treating musculoskeletal conditions. In 2015, she furthered her expertise by completing a postgraduate certificate in Orthopaedic Manipulative Physiotherapy (OMT).
In 2017, Rochelle made the move to New Zealand, spending five years living and working on the North Island before relocating to Christchurch in late 2021. That move was driven by a long-held dream — to work in animal physiotherapy, combining her clinical skills with her deep love of dogs.
I have previously worked with Rochelle for two years. She has such a caring nature and a natural ability to connect with her patients. She takes the time to listen, observe, and build trust.
She is currently completing the Transitional Canine Physical Therapist (tCPT) credentialing program through CanineIQ (USA). While Rochelle works to complete this qualification we will be offering her skills at a discounted rate.
Rochelle is available on Thursdays.
Rochelle will be working Thursdays and may also do some extra hours when I am away.
Bow (in memoriam)
Bow was the reason that Dr K fell 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 Karen could do for Bow, beyond managing his pain with medication.
She 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). She 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.
