Hydrotherapy
North Paws Rehabilitation Referrals is able to offer a complete hydrotherapy service for all sizes and breeds of dog, cat or other pet. We have both a large hydrotherapy pool, and a full length underwater treadmill. Our hydro-therapists are all level 3 and 4 certificate holders with advanced underwater treadmill certificates, as well being experienced RCVS registered Nurses, ensuring we are able to deal with a huge variety of case loads and conditions.
Hydrotherapy Treatment
Hydrotherapy for pets is a therapeutic exercise carried out in warm water, in a pool or underwater treadmill.
The buoyancy and support of the water enables the animal to carry out flexion and extension of the limbs in a supported, partial or non weight baring environment. The water pressure and warmth increases circulation, improves joint flexibility and reduces joint pain. Water resistance is used to build muscle mass and to improve cardiovascular health.
Hydrotherapy is extremely useful for a wide range of conditions, including Osteoarthritis, Hip and Elbow Dysplasia, IVDD, ligament and tendon injuries, as well as animals who have undergone orthopaedic surgery.
Animals exhibiting loss of neurological function will greatly benefit from gait re education and increased proprioception.
Soft tissue injuries and muscle injuries are also commonly managed with hydrotherapy, as well as fun and fitness swimming for otherwise healthy pets.
The Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Pain Relief
Post-Surgery or Injury Recovery
Weight Management
Muscle Strengthening & Endurance
Improved Mobility & Coordination
Hydrotherapy Pool Session
Each of our hydrotherapy sessions are tailored to the pet’s individual needs, whether they are recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply improving strength and endurance.
The session starts with a discussion between our hydro-therapist and the yourself to ascertain your pet’s medical history, condition, and therapy goals.
Our hydro-therapist will also assess your pet’s mobility, muscle strength, and any signs of pain or discomfort before entering the water.
Your pet will be fitted with life jacket for safety, and then our hydro-therapist will gently guide your dog into the warm water using the ramp.
Depending on your pet’s condition, different techniques will be used including:
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- Free swimming to strengthen muscles and improve cardiovascular health.
- Guided movements using therapist support to encourage correct limb use.
- Floating and stretching to improve flexibility.
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Our hydro-therapist will observe your pet’s movement, breathing, and comfort level throughout the session. Adjustments are made if your dog or cat shows signs of discomfort or fatigue.
After swimming, your pet is guided to exit the pool using the ramp and will then be dried off with towels. We will then discuss the session with you, noting progress and any adjustments for future sessions.
Underwater Treadmill Hydrotherapy
Underwater hydrotherapy treatment is a low-impact exercise using water resistance to aid in rehabilitation, conditioning, or pain relief. The process takes place in our underwater treadmill. Here’s what happens during the session:
Our trained therapists will assess your dog’s medical history, physical condition, and therapy goals. These could include post-surgical rehabilitation, arthritis relief, weight management, or muscle strengthening.
Your dog will be fitted with a harness for safety, and then gently introduced to the treadmill.
During the treatment your dog will stands inside the underwater tank as water fills to the appropriate level. A slow-moving treadmill starts beneath the water, encouraging your dog to walk. The buoyancy of the water reduces joint strain while the resistance strengthens muscles.
Our trained therapists may adjust speed, incline, or water level based on your dog’s needs.
At the end of the session, the water is drained from the tank, and your dog is gently removed and towel-dried or blow-dried to prevent chilling.
