Kent’s Leading Veterinary Rehabilitation Specialists

The Team

Empathetic, Passionate Professionals

Every member of our team is educated to the highest standards, with a core ethos of animal care & welfare at their heart. Each one brings a unique set of skills and expertise to our rehabilitation centre. We are proud to have come for a variety of educational backgrounds, combining the best industry-led knowledge to provide your pet with the best in veterinary rehabilitation.

Laura Hackett

Founder & Clinical Lead

Laura is the Clinical Lead + Owner of Apollo Animal Physiotherapy, establishing in 2018.

Pursuing an ongoing commitment & dedication to animal health, Laura has built Apollo with an incredible team, alongside her vocations which include her beautiful 2 horses & black Labrador.

During her career Laura has continued with plenty of ongoing training, and has fallen in love with specific aspects of the job, including:

  • Therapeutic exercise + conditioning
  • Distal limb injury management
  • Manual therapies and the impact these have on soft tissues. Most recently completing spinal + limb mobilisation courses over in America.

Her qualifications include:

  • Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy with the University of Nottingham
  • Level 4 Advance Aquatic Underwater Treadmill Techniques with K9HS
  • Advanced Certificate in Veterinary Physiotherapy
  • Clinical Educators Certificate (Mdx)
  • Membership Secretary for IRVAP (ICH, IRVAP)
  • Registered and Regulated by IRVAP

Johanna Thacker

Hydrotherapist

With a deep passion for animal wellness, I am a qualified Canine Hydrotherapist dedicated to helping dogs regain mobility, build strength, and live their best lives.

Combining clinical knowledge with genuine compassion, I specialise in delivering tailored hydrotherapy programs that support recovery from injury, post-surgical rehab, and long-term management of conditions.

Whether it’s a playful pup or a senior dog needing gentle support, I strive to ensure that every dog feels safe, supported, and encouraged throughout their aquatic therapy.

Outside the pool, I enjoy adventures with my own dog and exploring nature, always staying inspired to provide the best care for your furry family member.

Lauren Chorlton

Veterinary Physiotherapist

Lauren made it clear she was an animal person when she said her first word – “Woof!”. She grew up with cats, border collies, and guinea pigs, and started horse riding at seven.

She has worked many animal-based jobs and graduated with an Integrated Master’s in Veterinary Physiotherapy at Writtle University College (ARU) in 2025.

Lauren finds soft tissue injuries most rewarding and enjoys performing a variety of massage techniques. Her goal is to build her patient’s confidence and strength so they can have fun without fear.

Outside of work, she loves horse riding, art, everything medieval, and spending time with her mutt Alfie.

Amber Baker

Veterinary Physiotherapist

Amber is a Full Member of the National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP).

She holds a Level 7 Master’s Degree (MSc) in Veterinary Physiotherapy (Merit), as well as a BSc (Hons) in Equine Sports Therapy & Rehabilitation. Her training gave her a strong foundation in animal anatomy, biomechanics, manual therapy, hydrotherapy, electrotherapy and remedial exercise, including her research into equine heat therapy.

Before joining Apollo, Amber gained practical experience with canine and equine patients across a variety of rehabilitation and veterinary settings. Her equine background includes experience with Bell Equine Veterinary Clinic, John Best Racing and Grissell Racing, alongside work in livery yards and equine rehabilitation environments.

Amber has worked with dogs and horses of different ages, breeds and temperaments, supporting patients with a range of orthopaedic, neurological and age-related conditions.

She enjoys adapting each treatment session to the individual dog, using a combination of hands-on therapies, therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation techniques to support comfort, mobility, strength and quality of life. Amber also values working closely with owners, helping them understand their animal’s needs and feel confident supporting their rehabilitation at home.

Outside of work, Amber enjoys spending time with her two Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and continues to maintain her longstanding interest in horses and equestrianism.

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