Small animal hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy provides a non weight bearing form of controlled exercise in a swimming pool or underwater treadmill providing excellent therapy for dogs in need of careful rehabilitation after injury or those suffering with general orthopedic conditions, like arthritis.
The non weight bearing environment relieves pressure on joints, reducing pain and encouraging a greater range of movement.
Comparatively, in our aquatic treadmill the water height can be adjusted to precisely control the amount of weight bearing as the patient progresses through their recovery.
Resistance and buoyancy both offer a protective quality reducing the risk of injury by reducing the tensile load placed onto the affected joints.
Patients have to work harder to move forward when swimming increasing strength and tone.
Within water patients are also subject to hydrostatic pressure and this can help to reduce swelling and pain.
Our hydrotherapy programs are tailored to each individual patient to provide the best rehabilitation or fitness program with the aim of improving and enhancing your dogs physical and mental well being.
What conditions can benefit from Veterinary Hydrotherapy?
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Hip/Elbow Dysplasia
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Canine Arthritis
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Cruciate Ligament injuries
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Patella Luxation
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Soft tissue injuries (muscle, tendons and ligaments)
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Spinal conditions / Post operative neurological
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Post operative orthopaedic rehab i.e TPLO, FHNE etc
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Muscle strengthening, maintenance and restoration
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Relief of pain, swelling and stiffness
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Relaxation of muscle spasms
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Maintenance of mobility i.e Preventative care
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Canine Obesity
What is included in our Hydrotherapy consultations as standard?
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Basic health check
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Gait and palpatory assessment
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Active and passive stretches in water
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Soft tissue massage / manual therapies in water
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Box stand corrections in water
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Aquatic proprioceptive exercises
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Ambulatory sets (Aquatic Treadmill)
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Swimming sets (Hydro pool)
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Cool down and pre session shower down
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Pre session gait assessment
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Feedback and recommendations
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Session videos and photos including underwater footage, Timelapse videos and photos
What are the evidence based
benefits of Hydrotherapy?
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Improved cardiovascular fitness
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Increased active range of movement
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Improved proprioception
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Gait re-education (post spinal)
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Increases muscle mass and tone
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Low or non weight bearing
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Reduced inflammation - reducing pain
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Improves general mobility
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Improves psychological wellbeing
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Proven weight loss aid
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Improved overall joint health
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Helps increase blood circulation
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Provides mental stimulation
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Improves quality of life
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Improves lymphatic drainage
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Improves mentation (Senior pets)
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Improves cardiovascular fitness
