The Team
Empathetic, Passionate Professionals
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.
Ellie Gray
Senior Therapist
Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy
Since a young age, Ellie has been surrounded by animals. She grew up with dogs, horses, guinea pigs, tortoises, you name it. She always knew her calling in life was working with animals which led her to a long-term passion of studying animals beginning with a Level 3 Diploma in Animal Management, followed by a BSc in Zoology and then a Master’s degree in Veterinary Physiotherapy.
Her main area of interest is orthopaedic care, particularly stifle and hip conditions. She enjoys helping animals regain mobility and quality of life. Allowing dogs to just be dogs again, and owners to enjoy seeing their dogs happy. She loves meeting all the different dogs at work, their personalities, finding out where their favourite scratchy spot is, and finding out all about their adventures. An important factor about her work is building a relationship with your dog, and you, and working towards your goals.
Ellie is also currently studying for her Level 4 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals to continue expanding her knowledge with professional continued development.
Outside of work, she spends most of her time outdoors with her Golden Retriever, Goose. They love to spend their days hiking or swimming at the beach. She also owns three horses – they keep her busy! She competes in dressage and eventing in her free time, although she says she never comes away with any prizes, she loves every moment. Away from all things 4-legged, she loves photography, gym and running, and enjoying live music.
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.
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.
Contact Us
- 07300 020 514
- bookings@apolloanimalphysio.com
- apolloanimalphysio@gmail.com
- Apollo Animal Physiotherapy, Old Haine Road, Ramsgate, CT12 5AG