Hydrotherapy is an exceptionally useful tool for promoting wellness in your pet, this tool can be divided into two forms.
- Therapeutic – for recovery from orthopaedic surgery, assistance with soft tissue injuries and neurological conditions.
- Fitness – used for muscular strength and endurance in competition animals or for weight loss
How does Hydrotherapy work?
This therapy works by using buoyancy in the water to reduce the weight on the patient’s limbs which reduces pain and jar on the limbs. The warm water also helps provide pain relief, reduces swelling and reduces muscle tension. We use an underwater treadmill which is a tank with a treadmill in the bottom. The hydrotherapist will fill the tank to roughly above your pet’s legs, then the treadmill will begin to move which would prompt your pet to walk. This provides a low impact environment which uses the resistance of the water to strengthen the muscles. It can also improve a pets mental state by causing a release of endorphins (happy hormones).
What are the benefits of Hydrotherapy?
- Pain relief
- Reduction in swelling
- Relaxes muscle tension and spasm
- Less concussion on the joints
- Increased range of motion
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Improved circulation
- Improved mental state
- Increased muscle strength
- Gait correction
- Suitable for dogs and cats
Meet the Therapist
Bex Hassard MIRVAP (ICH) is a fully qualified Hydrotherapist who trained at Greyfriars veterinary rehabilitation centre. She started her animal career journey working in our Pennards Cattery and fell in love with water healing. She is a passionate advocate for animal wellness and rehabilitation as well as enjoying walks and training with her staffordshire bull terrier Nutmeg.
