Hydrotherapy involves the use of therapeutic exercise in warm water. The warmth and buoyancy of the water can reduce pain, relax muscles, improve circulation and promote healing.

The treadmill provides us with greater control over the speed, duration and intensity of exercise; by using different water depths and floatation devices, exercise can be targeted to your dog’s specific needs and provides more stability for the dog whilst exercising.

Hydrotherapy can be beneficial in treating such conditions as:

• Hip and elbow dysplasia
• Osteoarthritis
• Tendonitis
• Neurological conditions
• Spinal injury

as well as supporting pre- and post-operative care, weight management and general mobility and fitness programmes.

If you are using hydrotherapy to support a general fitness programme, your dog does not need to be referred by a veterinary surgeon (although you should ensure that your dog has seen a vet in the last 12 months and is fit to exercise).  In all other cases, however, we will need veterinary referral.

Initially, a nurse will assess your dog and tailor a rehabilitation programme to your dog’s specific needs.  Most cases start with a 6 week programme of 2 sessions a week, lasting around 30-45 minutes.  Your dog will benefit from your presence and encouragement.

Many companies do, however, it is your responsibility to check the terms and conditions of your particular policy prior to treatment to ensure that this is the case.