Before treatment, permission is sought from the registered vet for the animal in accordance with the Veterinary Surgeons (1966) act.
We will contact the vet for you once provided with details
ABOUT CANINE HYDROTHERAPY
Hydrotherapy, meaning "healing with water", is a form of exercise that utilises the therapeutic properties of warm water in a non- or partially weight-bearing environment. Sessions are carried out by trained hydrotherapists and are tailored to each dog's individual needs, with programmes designed to improve mobility, fitness, strength, and overall function.
Every dog responds differently to hydrotherapy. For some, simply floating, sitting, or gently swimming in the warm water can help to reduce pain and inflammation. For others, more targeted exercises may be used to improve range of movement, increase muscle mass, and build strength.
Hydrotherapy can be particularly beneficial following surgery or injury, supporting a smoother and often faster recovery. The buoyancy of the water reduces the stress placed on joints and limbs, allowing dogs to perform movements that may not be possible on land due to weakness, pain, or injury. This makes hydrotherapy especially valuable for dogs with orthopaedic and neurological conditions, including spinal injuries.
Conditions that may Benefit from Hydrotherapy
- Pre and Post operative conditions.
- Pain, swelling and stiffness (arthritis, veteran dogs).
- Hip and elbow dysplasia, OCD, cruciate ligament injuries.
- Spinal injuries, paralysis, amputation (strengthens muscles, increases range of movement, promotes overall blood circulation).
- Cardiovascular fitness (improves heart and lung function). Excellent for working, agility, racing and show dogs.
- Obesity (weight loss in conjunction with diet) and weight management.
- Behavioural problems. Swimming allows your dog to release his energy in a safe and healthy manner. This in turn helps to rebalance his mental well being and may help reduce unwanted behaviour.
- Because swimming is totally non weight bearing it is extremely useful with young large breed dogs where exercise may be restricted due to possible joint damage.
Benefits of the Hydrotherapy Pool
• Reduced weight bearing and limb loading
• Improved cardiovascular fitness
• Strengthened muscles and improved joint mobilisation
• Helps to speed up recovery
• Slows the progression of degenerative conditions
• Relieves swelling, pain and stiffness
• Increases range of movement
• Provides support allowing more comfortable exercise
• Enhances mental well-being
• Safe, controlled environment
Benefits of the Underwater Treadmill
- The controlled walking pattern encourages a more complete extension of the limbs and joints than swimming alone.
- Water depth and treadmill speed can be adjusted to suit each dog's specific needs and stage of rehabilitation. Slower speeds are particularly beneficial for dogs with neurological conditions, as the resistance of the water provides additional support and allows more time for accurate foot placement. Moderate speeds are commonly used for post-surgical and arthritic patients, as well as for warming up and cooling down canine athletes. Faster speeds can be used for athletic dogs and those further advanced in their rehabilitation programme.
- Many dogs find the Underwater Treadmill less intimidating than swimming, making it an excellent option for dogs that are less confident in water.
- The gentle, low-impact nature of the treadmill makes it suitable for many post-surgical patients from as early as two weeks post-operation, provided sutures have been removed and the wound has fully healed.
- A range of advanced rehabilitation techniques can be incorporated to target specific muscles, movements, or areas of concern.
- The treadmill belt can also be adjusted to varying inclines. Dogs initially begin on a flat surface, but the incline can be gradually increased in 10% increments up to 100%, simulating walking up a steep hill and providing an additional challenge to build strength and improve function.
Aims of Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy programmes are tailored to each individual dog, taking into account their diagnosis, stage of recovery, and specific needs. While every patient is unique, treatment aims will vary depending on the condition being managed and may focus on reducing pain, improving mobility, increasing strength, or supporting a safe return to normal activity.
Patella Luxation
Build muscle pre or post surgery to support the joint and prevent abduction of the joint. Help to reduce inflammation along with the use of NSAIDs
Cruciate Ligament Disease
Aim to increase muscle around joint supporting the cruciate ligament as well as decrease pain. By doing this alongside a restricted exercise programme, your dog will become weight bearing.
Osteoarthritis & OCD
This normally occurs secondary to other conditions. By doing hydrotherapy you will reduce pain and inflammation due to the warmth of the water, increase range of movement reducing toxins and increasing nutrients within the joint capsule.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
Hydrotherapy will maintain and increase muscle bulk to keep good extension and minimise arthritic changes. This may be an option to swim as a form of conservative management rather than opting for surgery.
Obesity
Hydrotherapy can help increase cardiovascular fitness as well as burn fat and build muscle. We have scales in our centre, so we can set up a weight loss plan for your dog. As little as 5 minutes in the pool is equivalent to a 20 minute walk.
Degenerative Myelopathy
Hydrotherapy will help slow the progression of symptoms and improve the animals quality of life. Swimming Improves the feeling of wellbeing due to the release of endorphins.
Book a Hydrotherapy Appointment
Whether you are ready to book a hydrotherapy appointment or would simply like to find out if hydrotherapy is the right option for your dog, we would love to hear from you. You can contact us to discuss your dog's individual needs or view our pricing information using the links below.
Hydrotherapy for Fun & Fitness
Hydrotherapy is not only valuable for rehabilitation, but also an excellent way to support your dog’s general fitness, strength, and wellbeing. Both swimming and Underwater Treadmill sessions provide low-impact exercise in a safe, controlled aquatic environment, helping to improve muscle tone, cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, and weight management while minimising stress on the joints. Many dogs also simply enjoy the experience, making hydrotherapy a fun and enriching way to stay active and healthy.
Puppy Swims
Puppy swims are a fun and gentle introduction to the water, designed specifically for puppies aged 16 weeks to 1 year. They help to build confidence in the water while providing safe, non-weight bearing exercise that places no stress on growing joints. This early exposure supports healthy development of strength, coordination, and fitness, all within a controlled and positive environment where puppies can learn and enjoy the experience at their own pace.
