AQUA CANINES

Hydrotherapy Services

Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is a water-based rehabilitation.

Hydrotherapy is a great way to improve mobility and rebuild or maintain muscle mass without your dog having to bear weight on the affected area, allowing your dog to exercise fully, maintain fitness levels and increase its natural range of motion more quickly, in a safe and controlled environment.

Hydrotherapy is widely recognised as a complementary therapy by the veterinary profession and can be of great benefit in the treatment of many medical conditions including arthritic, orthopaedic and neurological conditions as well as muscle, ligament and other soft tissue injuries.

Conditions commonly benefiting from hydrotherapy include:

  • Osteoarthritis
  • Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
  • Degenerative Myelopathy
  • Legg Calve Perthes Disease
  • Luxating Patella
  • Spinal Injuries
  • Cruciate Ligament Injuries
  • Obesity
  • Depression
  • Intervertebral Disc Disease (degenerative type)
  • Spondylosis
  • Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy (CDRM)
  • Fibrocatilaginous Embolism (FCE)
Aqua Canines

Hydrotherapy FAQs

Many dogs have never swum before they come to hydrotherapy. We aim to make each dog as comfortable and relaxed as possible and guide them gently into the water with the correct harness or buoyancy jacket fitted. Whilst in the water they will have a hydrotherapist with them supporting them and aiding the correct movement at all times.

Yes we have lots of dogs that come for body conditioning or just for fun!

Yes in conjunction with a diet, swimming sessions are a brilliant way to burn calories especially if they are restricted from exercising on land as 10 minutes in the pool with no impact on their joints is like going on a 2 mile walk.

No, the water never gets warm enough to have the same benefits as hydrotherapy. There are also strong currents which can be dangerous and steep muddy banks which can make it hard getting in and out the water safely especially with an injured or arthritic dog.

Yes, whether it is for rehabilitation or fun and fitness, a referral form will need to be completed by your vet. We will send you a consent form to sign and return and then we can submit the referral request on your behalf by email to your vet, for completion ahead of your first appointment. This is to make sure your dog has no conditions that may be exacerbated by hydrotherapy.

Each insurance company has its own policy regarding canine hydrotherapy and you should contact your insurer to find out if your policy covers hydrotherapy treatments.

It is crucial to swim in the correct temperature especially if a dog is suffering from arthritis or has any joint problems. Swimming in cold water can actually be counterproductive as it reduces blood circulation. Cold muscles are more likely to stiffen up and cramp and could do further damage. It is essential to monitor how much exercise your dog is doing and that they are doing the correct movement not to exacerbate any existing problems. This is impossible to do without the correct training and not being in the water with them to look and feel the movement. In open lakes there is often an undercurrent which your dog could get into trouble with, especially if they are already tired. There is also a risk of pollution and waterborne disease that could put your dog in danger. In the hydro pool the water is tested regularly and kept warm to ensure that your dog is safe at all times.

Referral Form