Benefits
Hydrotherapy is the use of water to treat disease, injury or illness. The buoyancy of the water makes hydrotherapy a completely non-weight bearing form of exercise, which helps to reduce pain and allows easier movement. Whilst swimming most of the muscles used for everyday movement are involved, but joint stress from hard ground is avoided.
The building of muscle mass is one of the main objectives of swimming, as the muscle support to joints and bones is vital for stability. Swimming tones most of the major muscle groups whilst improving the general overall fitness of the dog. Movement in water is more difficult due to the resistance of the water. Water based exercise uses 30% more oxygen than similar land based exercise. By encouraging pain free limb movement against the resistance of water, muscle bulk will improve and muscle wastage will decrease.
Warm water increases circulation of blood to the muscles leading to muscle relaxation and a reduction in pain and stiffness. Improved circulation reduces swelling so increases healing. the hydrostatic pressure of the water also has an anti-inflammatory effect.
As well as the medical benefits swimming is also fun for the dog and increases the dogs mental stimulation. This is a particular benefit for those dogs on restricted exercise.
We believe in most cases that free swimming (not connected to a hoist) achieves the best results and is less stressful for the dog. Therefore we encourage dogs to play with toys when possible.
There a many conditions that will benefit from hydrotherapy including:
- Arthritis
- Hip & Elbow dysplasia
- Spinal injuries
- OCD
- CDRM
- Cruciate ligament problems
- Spinal problems
- Pre and post operative muscle maintenance
- Weight control
- Fun and fitness for pets, working , show and agility dogs
