Hydrotherapy has been around for centuries, used by humans in various forms to relax, treat and cure the body of various illnesses, ailments and conditions.
In recent years, the unmistakable healing properties and proven results of hydrotherapy have seen it being used not only for humans, but to help treat dogs and other animals for a number of different issues.
Canine hydrotherapy’s ever-increasing popularity is no mere ‘pet craze’ or fad. Its many benefits are not only backed by science but it is widely recommended by experts and veterinarians alike as an effective treatment for a wide range of afflictions.
What is dog hydrotherapy?
This medical practice uses water combined with targeted movements and exercise to help treat, rehabilitate and relieve dogs of pain.
Canine hydrotherapy utilises the main properties of the water – buoyancy, viscosity, hydrostatic pressure and resistance to gently exercise injured, recovering or painful bones, muscles or joints in a way that doesn’t exert pressure on them. This is something that often cannot be achieved outside of the pool, where it would likely be extremely painful and uncomfortable for your pet to endure.
The water provides reduced pressure and weight through the joints which allows for the gradual build up, strengthening and conditioning of their muscles in a way that is gentle, enjoyable and fun for them.
What type of conditions can dog hydrotherapy be used to treat?
When it comes to dogs, hydrotherapy is most effective when it is used on a specific area, injury or for a particular issue. The main health problems, conditions or illnesses that it is used to treat are;
- Elbow or hip dysplasia
- Post-surgery recovery
- Obesity
- Soft tissue injuries
- Arthritis
- Mobility in older dogs
- Neurological disorders
- Spinal injuries
- CDRM
- Metabolic conditions such as Diabetes and Cushing’s
The type of hydrotherapy needed will depend on the issue that requires treatment, as well as the age, health and condition of the dog.
What are the benefits of canine hydrotherapy?
Not only can is hydrotherapy suitable for a wide range of different ailments, but one of the reasons why it is becoming used more frequently is the various benefits that come with it, just some of which include;
- The warm water helps to increase blood circulation, causing the muscles to relax, easing stiffness and pain.
- The pressure of the water acts as an anti-inflammatory and reduces tissue swelling,
- The buoyancy and resistance of the water makes exercise and movement easier on the joints and much less painful.
- Exercise in the water helps to build muscle mass, improve fitness and increase balance, co-ordination and strength.
- It is a great way for dogs that are older to improve and maintain mobility.
- Obese dogs can exercise and lose weight in a way that doesn’t put too much pressure on their body.
- It is a gentle way to support recovery for dogs who have had sugary, broken a bone, lost a limb or been injured.
- It can go a long way to help improve and enhance a dog’s psychological wellbeing.
Dog hydrotherapy at home
Helping your beloved pet with hydrotherapy doesn’t have to be limited to a clinical setting. Using hydrotherapy recreationally for exercise and conditioning can be done at home with you helping and supporting your dog. It can be extremely beneficial in the long term to help keep your pet happy and healthy to find a suitable dog hydrotherapy pool for sale that can be used in the convenience of your own back garden.
