What is Hydrotherapy

our pool is heated to 29 degrees, helping to relax tense muscles and promote a soothing effect on muscles in spasm

dogs recovering from fractures and hyperextention injuries benefit enormously from being able to exercise without putting weight on their recovering limbs

dogs who are recovering from spinal conditions are supported by the water in a neutral spinal position

the pressure of the water on the limbs has a beneficial effect in itself. Dogs with swollen joints or tissue, receive even pressure from the water, giving gentle relief

recovering dogs, having been confined to cage rest, will relish the prospect of being able to exercise in the pool. Frustration will be reduced, and the endorphins released due to exercise will give your dog a wonderful feeling of well being, helping to promote the healing process.

These are some of the immediate benefits of hydrotherapy

help with weight loss, and so countering subsequent weight related conditions like cardiovascular problems and diabetes

secondary complications can be avoided, for example over-using and as a consequence, damaging other joints while compensating for the injured one

older dogs with osteoarthritis who cannot exercise easily on land because it is too painful, can go into a spiral of decline. The less they exercise, the weaker and stiffer they become and it is harder to achieve quality exercise.
In the non weight bearing environment of the pool it is easier for them to move than on land. Dogs can play "fetch" again or just paddle around having fun. Endorphines are released (the feel-good hormones), giving immediate additional pain relief.
Over time strength improves and exercise on land is easier, reversing the spiral to one of increased mobility and comfort.

even for conditions where there is no cure, hydrotherapy can give your dog a good quality of life, something to be enjoyed, and happy memories towards the end

Hydrotherapy is not just swimming