Dog Hydrotherapy
HYDROTHERAPY FOR DOGS CONDITIONING AND REHABILITATION
Hydrotherapy is not the same as your dog free swimming at the beach or in a swimming pool. It incorporates controlled low impact or non-weight bearing exercises in heated sanitised water. Non weight bearing is usually in a pool and limited weight bearing is in an aquatic treadmill. Both options are guided exercises under the supervision of a qualified hydrotherapist. At Holistic Paws = Waggy Tails our clinic currently operates an aquatic treadmill service.
The properties of water when combined with low impact exercise provide pain relief and allowing healing to occur. The heat dilates the blood vessels, relaxes muscles, improves circulation, the hydrostatic pressure reduces swelling and inflammation around joints, the buoyancy prevents impact on joints improving range of motion, the turbulence and viscosity promote cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength. Common ailments and injuries which often improve with hydrotherapy are:
Common ailments and injuries which often improve with hydrotherapy are:
- Hip dysplasia (pre & post op)
- Elbow dysplasia (pre & post op)
- Spinal injuries
- Cruciate ligament injuries (pre & post op)
- Fractures (post op)
- Patella luxation
- Arthritis
- Obesity
YOUR FIRST TREADMILL SESSION
All initial hydrotherapy consults will be seen by our animal physiotherapist for a complete physio assessment prior to treadmill treatment. This will include a detailed look at your dog’s medical condition, home environment, medications, postural analysis, gait assessment and muscle mass measurements etc. Prior to treatment your dog will be given a head to tail health check to ascertain suitability for hydrotherapy.
Your dog will have a harness or life jacket fitted prior to entering the treadmill. A certified therapist will be in the treadmill during their treatment. After the session your dog will be towel dried or rinsed if they have any skin sensitivities. On completion we will give you our recommendations for moving forward and a detailed home exercise plan.
Please note all hydrotherapy bookings need Vet Approval. If you would like to download a copy of our Vet Referral form to email to your Vet please click on the button below or we can contact your Vet to organise.
