Kara Airey | CCRVN
Veterinary Rehabilitation Services

Kara Airey Cert IV RVN CCRVN HCert Bus., Fear Free (TM) Certified
Kara spent the first 15 years of her career as a specialist surgical vet nurse in Perth and in Dublin, Ireland. Through these roles her passion for caring for patients during their post operative recovery lead her to further studies in veterinary rehabilitation. She returned to Perth in 2022, and finalised her training to become a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Veterinary Nurse in 2024 through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute (also representing over 180 hours of study (including theory, practical experience and examination). She is not only the second vet nurse her practice to achieve this internationally recognised qualification, but also the second in Australia to do so.
Kara’s special interests are in post surgical and neurologic rehabilitation. She is a self-proclaimed ‘cat lady’ with two cats who travelled both to and from Ireland with her. They fit well in to her lifestyle as they make great study supervisors!

Appearances:

Day 1 @ 13:30

Rewiring Recovery: The Nurse’s Guide to Neurorehabilitation

Neurological injury recovery in animals doesn’t end at diagnosis or surgery — ongoing, structured rehabilitation is essential for restoring function, preventing complications, and improving quality of life. Veterinary nurses are central to this process, providing hands-on care, monitoring progress, and guiding owners.

This lecture will cover the science of neuroplasticity and how targeted, repetitive exercises strengthen neural pathways. We will review common neurological conditions, prognosis factors, and practical starting points, including assessment of reflexes, management of abnormal muscle tone, and the importance of following the Neurodevelopmental Sequence. Practical techniques and safe progression to advanced exercises will be discussed alongside assistive devices, home modifications, and early mobilisation principles.

We will also address toileting challenges, monitoring strategies, red flags for reassessment, and effective client communication to enhance compliance and outcomes. Real-life case studies will illustrate how a stepwise, stability-before-mobility approach supports recovery in a variety of patients.

Kara Airey, CCRVN, Veterinary Rehabilitation Services

last published: 07/Nov/25 05:05 GMT

back to speakers