There is a long history of physical therapy in the treatment of animals. A book on physical therapy for horses, written by the physiotherapist Sir Charles Strong, was published in 1967. Several other textbooks have been published on this topic over the years.

​

The International Association of Physical Therapists in Animal Practice (IAPTAP) was officially recognised as a sub-group of the World Confederation of Physical Therapy (WCPT) at the annual meeting in 2011.

The IAPTAP represents the interests of Physical Therapists practicing in the area of animal health whose national Physical Therapy organisation is a member of the World Confederation of Physical Therapy.

​

Although entry level physical therapy education does not include examination, evaluation, assessment, and treatment of animals, physical therapists in several countries have been leaders in the development of specialised educational programmes in the rehabilitation of animals. Many have groups for physical therapists in animal practice recognised by their national professional associations. These groups have been instrumental in establishing five international symposia on rehabilitation and physical therapy for animals since 1999.