Canine Hydrotherapy |Orlando, FL

What is Hydrotherapy for Dogs?

Hydrotherapy for dogs simply put, is the usage of water for the treatment of injury or illness to dogs. Water makes the body float, so when submerged, the weight of a dog’s body is fully supported. This means the dog is not fighting any gravity. The buoyancy of water also reduces the stress on joints, which creates a much safer environment for recovery and regeneration. Controlled and assisted swimming allows a dog’s muscles to be exercised and stimulated without the stress that comes with a land-based exercise. This is why underwater treadmills are not as effective as pure natural swimming. Hydrotherapy offers a dog a relaxed, enjoyable and therapeutic workout.

What Types of Dogs need Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is beneficial for any dog needing to achieve an overall state of well-being. Assisted swimming can create improved circulation, flexibility, muscle strength, cardiorespiratory endurance, and agility. Dogs who are recovering from an injury, suffer degenerative joint disease and who have been paralyzed are also great candidates for the water. Aqua therapy (which is the same as Hydrotherapy or Water Therapy) assists dogs suffering from fractures, hip dysplasia, the amputation of a limb, and neurological disorders. Lastly, the water is especially beneficial for dogs who suffer from arthritis due to the aging process; The warmth of the water reduces the inflammation that causes pain.

Benefits from Hydrotherapy for Dogs

Concurrently, hydrotherapy stimulates, strengthens and relaxes the body. It improves balance, coordination, and ups overall energy levels, all while reducing pain and stress.

Other benefits of hydrotherapy include:

  • Increased circulation

  • Retrain muscles; obtain lost muscle mass

  • Ideal for skin and coat

  • Increase lymph drainage, rid the body of toxins and improve the immune system.

  • Encourages better digestion and better sleep

  • Supports weight loss

  • Improves overall fitness

Canine conditions that can benefit from Hydrotherapy:

  • Hip or Elbow Dysplasia

  • Obesity

  • Arthritis

  • Degenerative Myelopathy

  • Luxating Patella

  • Ligament Injury (CCL/ACL)

  • Pre and Post Operative improvement

  • Aging and lack of mobility

  • Chronic pain

  • Spinal Stenosis/IVDD

  • Acute Joint problems

  • General Fitness

Ideal for Dogs who are or have:

  • Obese or overweight

  • Fear of the water

  • High Anxiety or Stress

  • Injured

  • Recovering from surgery

  • Preparing for surgery

  • Disabled/Handicapped

  • Degenerative disease

  • Arthritic

  • Senior or aging

  • Needs to learn how to swim/exit pool

  • General exercise

  • Cardiac & Respiratory strengthening

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The Importance of a Healthy Weight in Dogs

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You & Your Dog’s Relationship with a Hydrotherapist