What is Hydrotherapy?

 

Hydrotherapy is a treatment that uses the properties of water to rehabilitate and improve an animal’s function in a heated, sanitized pool. Dogs that are suffering from a medical condition or have had surgery benefit greatly from Hydrotherapy.

The Hydrotherapy pool allows your dog to exercise in a non weight bearing environment which relieves pressure on joints, reducing pain and encouraging movement. In the aquatic treadmill the water height can be adjusted to precisely control the amount of weight bearing as the animal strengthens or recovers.

It is difficult to move quickly within water so the water has a cushioning or protective quality reducing the risk of injury. The water also provides resistance meaning the dog has to work hard to move forward when swimming and in turn this helps to increase muscle strength and bulk. Within water dogs are also subject to hydrostatic pressure and this can help to reduce swelling and pain especially in the lower limbs.

However healthy dogs also enjoy the benefits of Hydrotherapy to improve their fitness. As our pool is large so you can interact with your dog and he can have fun and retrieve toys.

Please contact us for more details on post op or fitness swims.