Hydrotherapy

What is hydrotherapy?

From the Greek word for water healing, hydrotherapy is form of controlled exercise. Hydrotherapy provides stress-free support for muscles and joints without the impact associated with land-based exercise.

The water is set at an optimum temperature of 30 degrees which helps healing along with the skills of the hydrotherapist.

The buoyancy of the water reduces pressure of painful joints and improves flexibility. The water temperature relieves pain, relaxes muscles and also increases circulation.

Hydrotherapy improves:

• Balance and Stability
• Gait and Posture
• Pain management
• Control of swelling and stiffness
• Circulation
• Muscle mass
• General fitness
• Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Speed of recovery
• Comfort for arthritis
• Weight control

Hydrotherapy benefits many conditions, including spinal injuries, obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, pre and post operative conditioning, osteoarthritis, healing fractures and cruciate ligament injuries.

Hydrotherapy is also mentally stimulating for patients who have been given cage rest or exercise restrictions during recovery.

What will be involved for your pet?

Firstly a health check and assessment will be carried out.

The walk in and walk out treadmill is easy to use as it encourages patients to enter and exit one way. Each session is specifically designed to suit each patient’s needs and requirements. Once your dog is settled in the tank, the treadmill is started at a slow speed to encourage your dog to walk through the water.

The rotating belt can be set at different speeds and the water level adjusted for your pet’s condition.

The hydrostatic pressure in the water increases resistance which increases metabolic rate and can reduce peripheral oedema (fluid swellings in limbs or joints).

After the session has finished your pet will enjoy some fuss and a towel dry.

If you are interested in considering hydro for your pet, please contact our hydrotherapist Kayleigh Iveson at the surgery or speak to any member of staff.