Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy uses the therapeutic properties of water to help pets heal, lose weight, and improve motion in their joints. Pets who may be unable to exercise because of pain or stress on their bodies can do the same motions with ease in water because it relieves the weight-bearing stress on their muscles, bones, and joints.

Hydrotherapy is a great tool for pets who have mobility issues or need to lose weight. By walking on an underwater treadmill or swimming in a special pool, negative impacts to their joints can be avoided while they get exercise and strengthen their muscles.

Even pets who have a fear of swimming can be trained to use an underwater treadmill by our patient and caring veterinary staff. Some very intelligent large breed dogs, such as Labrador retrievers or German Shepherds, enjoy hydrotherapy not because they have a need for physical therapy but because they could use the mental stimulation and physical exercise.

Hydrotherapy in a heated pool can also improve circulation, range-of-motion, and overall musculature of patients, as well as heal scar tissue. These effects can not only heal the patient, but improve their overall quality of life.

If your pet has any of the following conditions, hydrotherapy may offer them relief that normal physical exercise cannot.