Beagle Obesity Exploring the Benefits of Canine Hydrotherapy

Canine Hydrotherapy Guide (Benefits of Hydrotherapy For Dogs)

Trendy health fads seem to come and go on an almost weekly basis. We always seem to be hearing about the latest, greatest health, fitness or diet regimes that the stars all swear by. The trouble with health fads is they have a tendency to cloud popular opinion of some relatively new or lesser known treatments that actually work.

Hydrotherapy works. It is not a fad and many dogs have reason to be grateful for its existence. Sam Lees answers the question just what is canine hydrotherapy and what to do next if you decide to give it a try!

What is Canine Hydrotherapy?

Weightless Exercise

Simply put, hydrotherapy is the use of water for the treatment of illness or injury.

In the case of canine hydrotherapy it allows a dog to take part in controlled swimming exercise which can be particularly beneficial to joints, muscles and limbs as they recover from injury.

It offers a therapeutic, relaxed and enjoyable workout, which many dogs are deprived of in day to day life, particularly if they are experiencing mobility issues.

Arthritic joints or limbs recovering from injury or surgery benefit particularly from hydrotherapy.

Controlled swimming allows muscles to be stimulated and exercised without the stress element associated with land based exercise, causing potential pain.

Can Hydrotherapy Help Dogs Live Longer?

Given the sad fact that canine mobility impairment, degenerating joints and crippling arthritis is one of the leading causes for older dogs being put to sleep, embarking on a regular course of canine hydrotherapy really can help your dog to live longer.

By enabling dogs to retain muscle function, mobility and exercise well without putting unwanted stress on joints, hydrotherapy is one of the absolute best things for helping to improve mobility in dogs who have started to show signs of strain.

Does Canine Hydrotherapy Work?

The reason why hydrotherapy is so effective for dogs who are unable to move well is due to the low resistance and impact on their joints provided by water. Dogs can exercise, build strength and improve core fitness without exacerbating existing injuries.

Arthritic joints or limbs recovering from injury or surgery benefit particularly. Controlled swimming allows muscles to be stimulated and exercised without the stress element associated with land-based exercise, causing potential pain.

Vets recommend a course of hydrotherapy for dogs for pre-and post-surgical conditioning, to reduce weight in obese animals, for painless exercise for pets with arthritis or dysplasia, cardiovascular workout for seniors, rehabilitation for stroke sufferers, and pain management.

It is used in many orthopaedic conditions both pre-operatively to improve muscle tone to affected limbs (for instance, prior to total hip replacement) and post-operatively to improve repair - for instance in the post-operative care of cruciate ligament rupture, osteochondrosis or fracture repair where light swimming can begin as soon as the sutures have been removed.

Preliminary observations suggest that hydrotherapy if initiated early in the course of the disease, can help to maintain muscle tone in cases of degenerative myelopathy, also known as degenerative radiculomyelopathy (CDRM) and other neurological diseases with similar presenting signs.

In show dogs and racing dogs, it provides an effective means of maintaining fitness and toning muscle, particularly in the winter months, and is a valuable aid to weight control in the obese pet.

Immediate Benefits of Hydrotherapy For Dogs

Hydrotherapy techniques help to relieve pain and strengthen and re-train muscles; because the animal is effectively weightless when swimming. Hydrotherapy for dogs acts by encouraging a full range of joint motion, thus improving muscle tone without imposing undue stress on damaged tissues. This is why results can be seen quickly.

Each hydrotherapy session should be tailored to an individual dog's condition and fitness levels all dogs should, therefore, visit through a referral from a veterinary surgeon. An assessment of the dog's condition will be made and the treatment given at each session recorded.

In this way, the progress that the dog makes can be monitored. The rate at which such progress is made will be dependent on the breed of dog, condition for which it is being treated, age and fitness level.

Is Canine Hydrotherapy Safe?

There is no set size for a hydrotherapy pool. All pools should have water heated to a temperature in the range of 24 to 30C and should allow all-year-round operation.

It goes without saying that the combination of water and electrical circuitry makes it essential that the owners and operators of hydrotherapy pools adhere to strict safety standards. There are appropriate safety certificates for owners of hydrotherapy pools.

Cleanliness of the water is a critical factor. All regulated pools must regularly test their water quality and in busy periods this would be several times each day. This is to ensure no harmful bacteria are present and there is no risk of cross-infection. In the case of hydrotherapy pools operated under the guidance of The Canine Hydrotherapy Association, their members are required to keep detailed records of water quality.

Some canine hydrotherapy providers offer an underwater treadmill for dogs to use. This enables dogs to go on a walk without putting strain or pressure on their joints.

How To Choose Canine Hydrotherapy Provider

The Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) is a UK-based non-profit organisation that provides self-regulation for the animal hydrotherapy sector. Aquatherapist Malcolm Adler has this advice for people searching for a reputable hydrotherapy pool operator:

There is no statutory requirement for Canine Hydrotherapists in the UK to undergo training. It is always advisable to visit a hydrotherapy pool before you begin any treatment programme, to inspect the facilities, ask about qualifications and training, check water quality and insurance cover, and discuss your dog's condition and the treatment programme. The key aspect is a quality treatment for your dog.

Because hydrotherapists do not have any compulsory regulation to adhere to, as is the case with dog trainers or behaviour professionals, it does not always mean that a non-accredited practitioner is necessarily a bad one. Use your discretion as a customer and speak to as many people as possible, especially your vet, when searching for a suitable hydrotherapy practice.

How Much Does Hydrotherapy For Dogs Cost?

Rates for a hydrotherapy session is set by individual therapists and will vary according to the facility and its location. Typically a session will allow for up to 30 minutes, to include time for drying the dog afterwards.

Fees for canine hydrotherapy sessions are normally in the range of 15 - 35 per session.

In most canine hydrotherapy centres, owners are encouraged to attend sessions to help reassure their dog during their initial exposure to water.

Interested in Hydrotherapy For Your Dog?

If you think your dog could benefit from a hydrotherapy session, speak to your vet and see if they can recommend a hydrotherapy practitioner in your area.

You might also like to contact some hydrotherapy pool operators and ask if they would be prepared to let you inspect their facilities or maybe talk to some of their existing clients about their experiences.

In much the same way that it is important to dog owners to inspect a new boarding kennel and get a general feeling of confidence about the people running the operation, always be prepared to visit premises and ask lots of questions.

Find A Canine Hydrotherapist Near You:

Hydrotherapy for Dogs: Can It Help Your Pet Heal?

What are the benefits of hydrotherapy for dogs?

Hydrotherapy is used to aid recovery from many different health issues and it can also be a great way to get a dog used to water and help them build stronger muscles. Here are some of the ways hydrotherapy may benefit your pet:

• Helps increase balance and coordination
• Rebuilds muscle mass
• Increases blood circulation
• Helps to relieve pain
• Aids digestion
• Helps with recovery after surgery
• Helps to reduce inflammation
• Improves stamina
• Helps with weight loss

What conditions can be treated using hydrotherapy for dogs?

If your dog is suffering from one of the following conditions, its worth talking about canine hydrotherapy with your vet, as this may be appropriate as part of a multimodal treatment plan:

Is hydrotherapy safe for dogs?

Canine hydrotherapy is a process carried out by professional therapists trained to make sure the experience is as safe and as comfortable as possible for your pet. Special equipment such as life vests and harnesses are used depending on the type of hydrotherapy and your pet should be monitored at all times during the session.

However,dogs suffering from ear infections mightnot be suitable for hydrotherapydue to the possibility of water getting inside their ear and making the condition worse.And, whether your dog suffers from ear conditions or not,its always a good idea to check withthevet to make surecanine hydrotherapyislikely to bethe rightoptionfor your pet.

How to choose the right place for canine hydrotherapy

If youve got the go-ahead from the vet, its time to look for the best hydrotherapy service for your dog. Most veterinary practices will be able to refer you to a veterinary centre that provides hydrotherapy and other rehabilitation services. One of the most important things to check is that the therapists are licenced professionals. You can also look for reviews from other dog owners and see how satisfied they were with the service. Or you could even book a visit to talk with one of the therapists. They should be happy to answer all your questions and might even let you watch one of their hydrotherapy sessions to see whats in store for your pup.

Should you try dog hydrotherapy at home?

Pet owners with quick access to a body of water close to home or a pool in their back yard might be tempted to try hydrotherapy at home. However, owners should never try home hydrotherapy treatment as it is essential for this to be carried out under special supervision by a licensed professional to avoid making any illnesses or injuries worse. Canine hydrotherapy should take place in a well-controlled environment and should only ever be carried out by a licensed professional, so that everything from the water level and temperature to the type of exercise is carefully chosen to achieve the maximum benefits based on your dogs needs. Incorrect exercise could place strain on your pets body and lead to further problems.

What to do if your dog is scared of water?

Hydrotherapy for dogs can be extremely beneficial, but sometimes water can make pets quite anxious. Dogs will need to be used to getting into water to go to hydrotherapy. If your dog doesnt like water, you should take steps to help them feel more comfortable before their first hydrotherapy session and its a good idea to discuss this with your hydrotherapist ahead of time to ensure that your water training is safe for your pet given their condition.

A kiddie pool can be a good investment for pet owners with dogs scared of water. The shallow water is a good first step to get their paws wet and start getting them accustomed to being submerged. Dont forget to keep calm and offer your pet treats or toys and positive reinforcement where appropriate. The more gradual the process, the easier it will be for your dog to get comfortable with water. Always make sure you allow your dog to enter the water voluntarily at their own pace. Dont hesitate to look for professional help if you think your dog is too anxious and cant get over their fear.

Next, learn how to deal withfear and anxiety in dogsandtake time tounderstandyour dogspersonalityto help them get through those challenging moments easier.

Outcomes of Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy offers several immediate benefits for canine patients in the short term:

Pain Alleviation:

The warmth and buoyancy of water can soothe sore muscles and joints, providing relief from pain and discomfort. Immersion in warm water triggers the release of natural pain-relieving chemicals, promoting comfort.

Muscle Relaxation:

Hydrostatic pressure in the water aids in easing muscle tension, allowing canine patients to experience relaxation. This is particularly useful for dogs with muscle stiffness or spasms.

Enhanced Circulation:

Waters hydrostatic pressure enhances blood circulation and lymphatic flow. This can help reduce swelling, increase oxygen supply to tissues, and assist in removing metabolic waste products.

Joint Mobility:

The buoyancy of water decreases the weight on joints, leading to freer joint movement and an immediate improvement in range of motion for canine patients.

Strengthening and Activation:

Water resistance challenges muscles more than land-based exercises, leading to improved muscle activation and strength for dogs during hydrotherapy sessions.

Stress Reduction:

Waters calming effect can reduce anxiety and stress levels in canine patients. The therapeutic nature of water provides immediate relaxation.

Balanced Pressure:

Hydrostatic pressure from the water evenly distributes pressure on a dogs body, which can be particularly helpful for canines with circulation issues, joint problems, or those in post-operative recovery.

Enhanced Balance and Coordination:

Waters resistance challenges balance and proprioception in dogs, contributing to improved stability and coordination.

Real-time Guidance:

Therapists can closely observe canine patients during hydrotherapy, offering instant feedback on movement patterns and making adjustments for better posture and alignment.

These immediate benefits of hydrotherapy contribute to the overall well-being and rehabilitation of canine patients, assisting in pain management, recovery from injuries, and maintaining a high quality of life. In the long term canine patients can also benefit from:

Improved Mobility and Flexibility:

Over time, hydrotherapy helps to maintain and improve a dogs joint mobility and overall flexibility. Regular sessions can contribute to preventing joint stiffness and increasing the range of motion.

Enhanced Muscle Strength:

Consistent water resistance exercises gradually build muscle strength in canine patients. This is especially important for dogs with muscle atrophy, as hydrotherapy helps to regain and maintain muscle mass.

Pain Management:

Hydrotherapys ongoing pain-relieving effects can lead to long-term pain management for chronic conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, and spinal issues. As dogs gain strength and mobility, they experience reduced discomfort.

Cardiovascular Fitness:

Regular hydrotherapy sessions enhance cardiovascular fitness in dogs, improving their overall endurance and heart health. This is particularly beneficial for overweight or senior dogs.

Weight Management:

Hydrotherapys low-impact nature makes it an effective tool for weight management. Over time, dogs can shed excess pounds, relieving stress on joints and improving their overall health.

Injury Prevention:

Dogs engaging in hydrotherapy develop better balance, coordination, and muscle control. These improvements can reduce the risk of future injuries, especially in active or athletic dogs.

Post-Surgical Recovery:

Hydrotherapy is often used as a component of post-operative rehabilitation plans. Its long-term benefits aid in regaining function after surgeries like orthopedic procedures.

Enhanced Quality of Life:

Dogs undergoing hydrotherapy often experience improved overall well-being. They regain their ability to perform daily activities with greater ease, contributing to a happier and more active lifestyle.

Stress Reduction:

The calming environment of water and the positive experiences during hydrotherapy sessions contribute to a reduction in stress and anxiety over the long term.

Management of Chronic Conditions:

Dogs with chronic conditions such as degenerative myelopathy or neurological issues can benefit from consistent hydrotherapy, as it helps manage symptoms and maintain muscle tone.

Increased Confidence:

As dogs become more accustomed to the water and experience improvements in their strength and mobility, their confidence can grow, leading to better interaction with their environment.

Long-Term Rehabilitation:

Hydrotherapys progressive nature supports dogs throughout their rehabilitation journey. Therapists can adjust exercises as the dogs condition improves, ensuring effective and safe recovery.

In the long run, hydrotherapy provides a holistic approach to canine health, addressing a wide range of physical and emotional aspects. It is an invaluable tool for enhancing the lives of dogs with various conditions and helping them lead active, pain-free, and fulfilling lives.