Frequently Asked Questions:

  • If your pool chlorinated?

    Yes, the primary sanitation is provided by a low level of chlorine, which is completely safe for your dog and is used to kill any residual bacteria that may be present.

  • What do you do to ensure safety?

    The hydrotherapy pool area we swim in is only 4 ft. deep. Any deeper may put both your dog and the therapist at risk. We never force your dog into the pool and for those enthusiastic pups, we don’t allow them to jump off the edge of the pool. We also only allow one dog in the pool at a time during hydrotherapy swims. We gently encourage your dog to swim, when he or she is ready, not before. Your dog is never bullied.

  • What can I expect from my dogs hydrotherapy session?

    We value your time, so you can expect that (barring an emergency) your appointment will start on time. You will be present by the pool to watch your dog in the water and cheer him or her on during the session if you’d like. We respect your dog’s feelings about the pool, and therefore will ease him or her into the pool as appropriate. Each session is tailored to your dog’s specific needs, capabilities, and health concerns.

  • Feeding Instructions for my dog prior to swimming?

    We require that you do not feed your dog for at least six hours prior to their swim session, and 10-12 hours if you dog has bowel control issues. We require this because want to eliminate the risk of Bloat/GDV in your dog. If you mistakenly feed your dog less than six hours prior to their session we will reschedule your sesson.

  • What happens if my dog has an accident in the pool?

    If a dog defecates or vomits in the pool, it contaminates the water making it unsafe to swim. When this happens, we must immediately shut the pool down and contain the damage. The pool must remain closed for 12 to 24 hours or longer depending on the severity of the damage, resulting in loss of revenue to the business. For this reason, the swim session is immediately cancelled, and payment is non-refundable. We also reserve the right to assess the dog parent an additional fee of $200 to partially cover the cost of cleanup.

  • What happens if you cannot get my dog into the pool?

    We NEVER force your dog in the pool. Instead, we work with you and your dog to gently get your dog into the pool. While we will try during the entire scheduled session, there are no guarantees, because we do not force any dog in. In the unlikely event that we are not able to get your dog into the pool during your scheduled session, we will refund you ½ of your session price.

  • What happens if my dog has fear of water?

    We are specifically trained to work with dogs who have issues with water. We are very patient and will work slowly and gently to get your dog accustomed to the pool.

  • What do I need to do to prep my dog for a swim session?

    If your dog has no bowel control problems, don’t feed him or her for at least 6 hours to avoid bloat(GDV). If your dog does have bowel control problems, withhold food for at least 8 to 10 hours. Plan to arrive 10 minutes early so you can potty your dog prior to your session. Please bring your own towels. There are no public restrooms at Dip’n Dogs.

  • How many sessions are required until I see improvement in my dog?

    That depends on your dog, the situation, and/or your veterinarian’s recommendation. We may offer advice after assessing your dog, but we will never dictate to you how many sessions your dog will need. The decision is yours alone.

  • Can I swim with my dog?

    Unfortunately, no. In canine aqua therapy, Florida law, the Health Department, and our liability insurance prohibits anyone other than staff from being in the pool. However, you can be poolside to watch your dog swim. We encourage you to be poolside, to cheer your dog on, and help maximize his or her pool experience.

  • What is the water temperature?

    During our swim season we maintain a temperature range of 80-92 degrees.