OUR TEAM
With advanced education and years of experience in the field of veterinary physiotherapy, combined with a deep love for animal care,
Startline is dedicated to helping your pets and performance animals thrive and supersede competitive expectation.
Kirsten Straszacker
Founder and Lead Veterinary Physiotherapist
Kirsten is the heart and soul of Startline, with a passion for animal physiotherapy and the implementation and development of specialized conditioning techniques for above-standard clinical outcomes.
Kirsten completed a 4 year qualification in Veterinary Physiotherapy with Cum Laude and has been practicing alongside top veterinary orthopedic specialists and mastered sporting athletes in both the equine and canine fields within the Western Cape ever since.
Her passions within rehabilitation include the dedication to conditioning top performing athletes for enhanced performance within the show ring, implementing injury prevention practices for owners / handlers / riders and generating optimal functional outcomes in both orthopedic and neurological patients.
Alongside her experience, she has acquired vast behavioral expertise and welcomes any challenge that comes her way.
She is currently continuing her studies in the field of veterinary physiotherapy whilst actively pursuing competitive dog agility with her working-bred, smooth fox terrier, Stig.
Kirsten created the concept of Startline based on building strong foundations.
“We’re all at the starting point in some way, you just need to make your way to the line.”
Tasha Pollard
Veterinary Physiotherapist
Tasha holds a BSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy and is passionate about continuously developing her knowledge and expertise within the field of animal rehabilitation.
Her passion extends across all aspects of animal rehabilitation, including early intervention and injury prevention, conditioning and strengthening, post-operative recovery, the restoration and refinement of motor control, as well as geriatric care. She adopts a comprehensive, proactive approach to ensure each patient receives the most appropriate care throughout every stage of recovery.
She has a particular interest in animal behaviour which
she integrates into her treatment approach to better understand each patient and tailor rehabilitation programmes and exercise plans to their individual needs.
She firmly believes that no animal is untreatable, and is committed to exploring every appropriate avenue to support recovery, comfort, and improved quality of life.
Mandy
Office Administrator
Mandy is the organizational powerhouse behind Startline Veterinary Physiotherapy. With an extensive background in business administration and years of experience in the field of client relations and customer service, she is readily available for inquiries and to address your every concern.
Mandy understands the importance of your animal’s journey to recovery and works diligently to make every client feel welcome and cared for.
She ensures that everything runs smoothly – from Start to Finish.
