Laryngeal Paralysis, Lar-Par, LP, Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis, GOLPP... all refer to parts or the whole of a problem affecting not just the airway and ability for a dog to breath, but also a neurologic issue that affects a dog's movement as well. Come to this workshop to gain an understanding of GOLPP, discuss rehab suggestions, and glean insights into a treatment strategy that targets the presumed root of the problems. You will gain a better understanding of the Vagus Nerve and the role it plays, not only in GOLPP but in other health and physical function aspects as well. Learn how to target your therapies to the vagus nerve to enhance healing.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will gain an understanding about geriatric onset laryngeal paralysis and polyneuropathy (GOLPP).
Participants will learn about traditional treatments for GOLPP (surgical, medical, & conservative)
Participants will learn about the Vagus Nerve, it’s anatomy, function, and why it might hold the key to better rehab management of GOLPP patients.
Participants will learn and practice techniques that could target the nervous system and the vagus nerve as a way to manage GOLPP (and potentially other conditions as well).

Course Outline

Lecture

What is GOLPP?
Traditional treatments (surgical, medical, & conservative)
How the Vagus Nerve might play a role in GOLPP (especially the polyneuropathy part)
Anatomy & Function of the Vagus Nerve
Physical therapy techniques to target the vagus nerve

Lab

Eye techniques (human only…)
Fascial techniques for the occiput & suboccipital regions (human 1st, then test on dogs)
Massage / Myofascial techniques to the sternocephalicus muscle
Side glide manual mobilizations to the cervical spine
Localization of acupoints targeting the vagus nerve and balancing points
Ear techniques
AtlantoAxial Rotations

Laurie Edge-Hughes

BScPT, MAnimSt (Animal Physio), CAFCI, CCRT, CSm Anim Acup / Needling
Co-Owner, The Canine Fitness Centre, Ltd., Calgary, Alberta, Canada

Laurie Edge-Hughes obtained her Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy from the University of Alberta in 1993 and has since focused her post-graduate training on orthopedics, osteopathy, acupuncture, and animal rehabilitation. Additionally, she completed her Master of Animal Studies in Animal Physiotherapy through the University of Queensland (Australia)in 2006. Laurie taught the first canine physiotherapy/physical therapy courses in Canada (1999), the USA(1999), and Australia (2001). She has been involved in the Animal Rehab Division since its inception in 1994 and teaches canine physiotherapy and rehabilitation courses for the Animal Rehab Division (ARD) of the Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA). Additionally, she holds the position of Advocacy Lead for the ARD and is chair of the Registry of Allied Animal Health Practitioners of Canada. www.FourLeg.com, an online educational platform for continuing education in canine rehabilitation / physiotherapy. Laurie co-owns and practices out of the Canine Fitness Centre Ltd (www.caninefitness.com) in Calgary, Alberta.

Sessions:: Fri. May 1st, 8:30am - 12:45pm
Credits:: 4.0 RACE approval pending; 4.0 NYSED-approved
Course Rating:: Intermediate: CCRP, CCRT, CCAT
Advanced: DVM/VMD, PT, VT, CCRA, CCRVN
Policies:: To request a refund, please complete and postmark this Workshop Cancellation Form by March 28, 2026. Refunds exclude a $25 processing fee.