Hydrotherapy uses a pool or underwater treadmill to treat acute and chronic injury or for recreational use for exercise and fitness. The use of swimming is to encourage the dog’s limbs to move correctly in the water, while undergoing safe and comfortable exercise. Hydrotherapy pools utilise the natural properties of sanitised, warm water. These include buoyancy to support the body and reduce the dog’s weightbearing; increased resistance to help build muscle and increase ROM; hydrostatic pressure to increase circulation and help improve posture; and warmth to reduce muscle spasm and tension.

The effect of hydrotherapy varies with the intended use, whether it is being used for rehabilitation, fitness, confidence, or weight loss. However, the most common intended clinical effects include:

  • Pain relief
  • Building muscle mass
  • Relieving muscle tension
  • Improving range of motion (ROM) and flexibility
  • Improving proprioception (your animal’s awareness of its body in space)
  • Improving cardiovascular stamina and fitness
  • Increased recovery speed

We often do rehabilitation sessions (alongside physiotherapy for certain cases) to help your dog recover faster from injury. We can help treat a wide range of conditions, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Cruciate disease
  • Hip or elbow dysplasia
  • Paralysis
  • Before and after surgery
  • Recovery from soft or hard tissue injuries

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