What is Canine Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is proven to speed recovery after operations or slow the progression of degenerative conditions. It may be used as a pre-operative fitness regime to allow a dog to maintain condition before an operation.

When used after surgery or injury Hydrotherapy can aid the patient to a faster recovery.

Water walking is controlled partial weight bearing exercise utilising the therapeutic properties of warm water. Sessions are carried out by a trained Hydrotherapist, an initial assessment/consultation is taken & an individual treatment plan devised.  Our Hydrotherapist will be in the treadmill with your dog during every session & has advanced treadmill training, including massage & techniques to facilitate optimum limb range of movement for the condition been treated.

Warm water relieves pain, inflammation & improves joint range of movement.  Water resistance helps tone muscles and increases strength.

The benefit of water buoyancy supports the dog in a partial weight bearing environment thus allowing improved movement & limb loading that would not be possible on land, due to a weakness or injury.

Water also provides sensory input that’s particularly useful for rehabilitating dogs with spinal conditions providing sensory feedback from damaged nerves.  The moving Treadmill belt also helps with limb movement/paw placement and re-education of gait.

Hydrotherapy is also fun, most dogs love water and we encourage play and motivation in the treadmill with toys. Hydrotherapy therefore can be used as part of a general fitness and wellbeing routine for dogs that improves quality of life.