Hydrotherapy

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy uses water in the form of an underwater treadmill or a pool to allow for strength building, improved range of motion and relief of arthritis or post operative pain.  It offers a therapeutic, relaxed and enjoyable workout, which is important if they are struggling with their joints or impaired mobility.  Hydrotherapy could be suitable for dogs for pre-and post-surgical conditioning, to reduce weight in obese dogs, for painless exercise for pets with arthritis or dysplasia, cardiovascular workout for seniors, conditioning for canine athletes and pain management. 

How does it work?

Each hydrotherapy session is tailored to your dog’s individual needs, condition and fitness level.  We first start by introducing your dog to the treadmill empty and then running the belt with a low water level.  This helps the dog adjust and become comfortable with this new environment.  Over the course the future sessions, water is added at different levels based on the dog’s needs.  Warm temperature-controlled water is used and the treadmill can be ran at different controlled speeds.  The warmer water helps the dogs relax and is therapeutic for arthritic joints.

When your dog is in the water, they become buoyant and they have less weight to carry and support.  Life vests are available for extra support and can be a confidence booster for some animals.  Hydrotherapy can be very effective for dogs who are unable to move well.  The water helps with providing low resistance and impact on their joints.  Dogs can exercise, build strength and improve core fitness without exacerbating existing injuries.

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Benefits of hydrotherapy

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