Positive PACT
THE HOME OF CHOICE LED TREATMENT
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Julia Robertson, founder of Galen Myotherapy, developed the Positive PACT® methodology from the observation and treatment of more than 10,000 dogs over two decades. Positive PACT® stands for Progressive Affective Cycle of Therapy. It is based on a cycle of choice-led treatment involving the patient (dog), their guardian and the therapist. Facilitating the dog to have freedom of movement, during the treatment process. It allows a dog to have autonomy over their own body and therefore autonomy over treatment of areas of painful chronic muscular issues or dysfunction. They are able to control the intensity and pace of treatment, enabling areas to be treated that would otherwise be highly resistant to any form of contact.
PRINCIPLES OF POSITIVE PACT
ANIMAL SENTIENCE
CHOICE
Positive PACT®, Galen’s unique ‘choice led treatment’ protocol acknowledges the individual’s unique experience and ability to regulate their own pain through choice. Positive PACT® respects the animal’s ability to control treatment by recognising and respecting their emotional and behavioural responses to pain as freedom of movement.
Positive PACT® is based on the belief in animals as sentient beings with rich emotional lives capable of experiencing anxiety, fear, panic, frustration, helplessness, loneliness and depression. It recognises the importance of identifying and addressing the animal’s emotional state as part of any treatment or intervention.
FREEDOM OF MOVEMENT
As well as being an unpleasant physical and sensory experience, pain is also a strong driver for behavioural responses to pain for protection from harm and to prevent further injury. Therefore the dog is allowed to move freely away from the treatment zone and no attempt is made by the therapist or the dog’s guardian to inhibit, restrain, or prevent the dog’s movement thereby enabling freedom of movement and choice.
PROGRESSIVE THERAPEUTIC RELATIONSHIP
The importance of the dog’s first experience with the treatment environment as a positive experience cannot be overstated. Additionally the ‘trinity’ relationship of canine, guardian (human) and therapist is intrinsic to a dynamic, positive and affective cycle of Positive PACT. These relationships offer supportive actions and body language for the patient (dog) to feel equipped to express their autonomy through the treatment process..
TREATMENT EMPOWERMENT
Positive PACT® empowers the patient to regulate treatment by participating on their own terms according to their cognitive and sentient abilities. Positive PACT® gives dogs the time and space to actively shape their own care through empowerment, participation, giving choice, creating safety and control over their environment. All factors which have been demonstrated to reduce fear and anxiety, pain and improve wellbeing.