Hydrotherapy can be extremely beneficial for dogs to help manage a variety of medical conditions or for rehabilitation both pre-and-post-operatively.
When dogs are not very active due to the symptoms of a medical condition, they can quickly lose profound muscle mass. Following surgery or injury a full range of limb motion may not be possible on land. Treatment in the hydrotherapy pool reduces the stress on the dog’s joints or injury location, encouraging a better range of motion which then encourages muscle tone and tissue repair. It enables the dog to move freely through the water and the resistance to that movement helps to work the muscles in a non-weight bearing environment. The duration of exercise needed in water is less than needed for similar exercise on land.
Hydrotherapy, used in conjunction with veterinary treatment, can significantly improve the quality and rate of healing following surgery or traumatic injury. In these cases, the appropriate use of hydrotherapy can help with rehabilitation and increase the chance of a successful return to full fitness.
Hydrotherapy is one of the best forms of exercise to aid recovery. It is considered to be a natural anti-inflammatory in its ability to reduce tissue swelling. Hydrotherapy is ideal for dogs that are on cage rest or limited exercise. It can help alleviate some of the frustration and boredom often associated with the recovery process. It is a safe energy release that also boosts mental well-being.