Hydrotherapy for Dogs: A Growing Trend in Canine Physical Therapy

Thank you AKC.org for sharing this information and spreading awareness about Hydrotherapy for Dogs!
“Humans have known for millennia about the healing properties of water for injuries and aching joints. But it’s only recently that dogs have begun to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy. Is it simply another pet health craze, or does it work?
What is Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy literally means water therapy and can refer to any therapeutic use of water to aid or improve health. For humans, hydrotherapy includes exercises such as swimming and water aerobics, as well as more sedentary activities like saunas, whirlpool baths, and mineral baths. Exercising in water has the benefit of providing both buoyancy and resistance, making it possible to strengthen and condition muscles and build endurance without placing stress on joints. Bathing in hot water can also dilate blood vessels and relax joints and muscles, easing aches and pains and aiding in healing of injuries.
Hydrotherapy for Dogs
While humans have been incorporating water therapy into their exercise and health practices since before the Roman Empire, hydrotherapy for dogs came about much more recently, by way of the horse-racing industry. Revealing the healing and conditioning benefits of having racehorses walk in water, the practice was soon adapted for greyhounds in the racing industry. The invention of underwater treadmills for dogs soon followed, and, after that, the practice quickly branched out to dogs in general.
For dogs, hydrotherapy usually consists of either swimming or walking in water, whether in shallow water along the beach or on an underwater treadmill. “Exercising in water can be recreational, like what many people may do with their pets in their pool or at a beach,” says Dr. Tari Kern, DVM, a certified canine rehabilitation practitioner at Pawsitive Steps Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine. “However, hydrotherapy can also be used as part of a very specific, structured program with the goal of easing arthritis discomfort in pets, improving function after injury or surgical procedures, and even for optimizing conditioning of animal athletes.”
Treating Dogs with Hydrotherapy
Canine hydrotherapy can help treat a wide range of injuries and health conditions. “The low-impact nature of hydrotherapy exercise allows for its use in patients of all ages, including geriatric patients with arthritis and muscle atrophy or wasting,” said Dr. Kern.
Water therapy can also be beneficial in treating:
- Neurological problems
- ACL injuries
- Other orthopedic injuries or conditions
- Post-surgical healing and recovery
- Weight loss
- Metabolic conditions like Cushing’s and diabetes that can cause muscles to atrophy
The type of hydrotherapy prescribed depends on the condition being treated, as well as on the condition of the dog.
“Swimming provides a good cardiovascular workout, works the core musculature and can help to increase the overall burn of calories. However, it is very difficult to modify swimming as an exercise in general. As a result, it’s challenging to use swimming for broad-scale rehabilitation,” Dr. Kern explains.
“Underwater treadmill offers better ‘on-demand’ control of an exercise program and allows modifications to be made more specific. The depth of the water and speed of the treadmill can be quickly adjusted to provide different experiences for the pet. This allows the effects of the exercise to be tailored more specifically to the overall goal of hydrotherapy and each pet’s unique needs and possible limitations.”
But with all of hydrotherapy’s benefits, it’s not a panacea, Dr. Kern cautions. “Hydrotherapy is a great tool to use, but it is simply one treatment modality. Water-based exercises can help to rebuild muscle mass, promote cardiovascular output and improve stamina. However, it cannot target specific individual muscles for strengthening or reduce local inflammation or pain. The best rehabilitation plan should be individualized for each pet and incorporate a combination of modalities that best help to address all of the problems that need to be corrected.”

Hydrotherapy for Physical Conditioning and Preventing Injuries
For sporting dogs and other highly active breeds, recreational hydrotherapy is a great way to add physical conditioning exercises that help increase stamina and endurance as well as strengthen muscles, all of which can not only improve athletic performance but also help guard against muscle strain and injuries. “Positive results can often be seen quickly when incorporating hydrotherapy into athletic conditioning programs, as exercise in water can accelerate results when compared to similar land-based exercises,” says Dr. Kern. “For example, trotting in the underwater treadmill with the water at elbow height for 2 miles would be approximately the equivalent amount of exercise as running 4 to 5 miles on land with less concussive forces on the joints.”
But hydrotherapy should only be one part of an overall training program. “An athlete needs exercises that mirror their sport and should not exclusively do hydrotherapy when training,” Dr. Kern warns. “It should be considered as an addition to the athlete’s regular exercise program to help diversify and challenge their muscles, similar to cross-training. Working with a rehabilitation and sports medicine veterinarian and their team can significantly up the level of the program also, compared to trying to go it alone.”
Dog Hydrotherapy at Home
Hydrotherapy doesn’t always need to be done in a clinical setting. Recreational hydrotherapy for exercise and conditioning, such as swimming or walking in water, can be done at home in a swimming pool or in a larger body of water. For small breeds, a kiddie pool in the back yard can do in a pinch. But not all dogs are natural swimmers, so it’s important to closely supervise your dog. “We recommend always using a correctly fitting flotation or buoyancy jacket with pets while in the water, in case they get tired or need assistance,” says Dr. Kern.
“If the pet is otherwise healthy and swimming for basic exercise and fun, toys that float and controlled fetch games can be used to mix things up a bit.”
It’s also important not to force dogs who don’t enjoy swimming or water sports. “It may result in injury for the pet or the person or both. If your veterinarian believes that swimming would benefit your pet, but they are anxious about water, it’s best to seek professional guidance to help teach them,” says Dr. Kern, who also warned you should not attempt to provide medical hydrotherapy by yourself. “If the pet has medical conditions, attempting hydrotherapy at home is not advised. For those pets, using an underwater treadmill in a professional setting would be best, so that the exercises and the height of the water can be adjusted by the veterinary rehabilitation team based on the pet’s abilities.”
If you’re considering adding water exercises to your dog’s physical conditioning and training regimen, be sure to first clear it with your vet, as not all dogs are a good candidate for this type of exercise. “If signs of stress are observed, the activity should be stopped immediately,” Dr. Kern also warns. “Pets that are anxious or stressed may experience increased blood pressure and increased heart rates. Others may panic and flail about in water, which may create back muscle pain. The goal of hydrotherapy is gentle exercise and anything that is observed contrary to this plan means the activity must stop immediately.”
Providing Hydrotherapy for Your Dog
With the proven efficacy of hydrotherapy for aiding in healing and recovery, hydrotherapy clinics are popping up all over the United States, and more and more veterinarians are adding aquatic therapy equipment to their facilities. If you believe your pooch might benefit from hydrotherapy, talk to your vet about the options available in your area—look for trained and certified rehabilitation specialists. It’s also a good idea to visit the facilities to talk to the providers and have a look at their equipment before booking a session for your dog.
While costs will vary from one provider to the next, on average you can expect to pay around $35 to $45 for an initial consultation, between $20 to $30 for a swim therapy session, and $35 to $50 for an underwater treadmill session.”

What Our Clients Are Saying
Rachel is extremely kind, gentle and motivational towards animals. She provides quality individual attention.
What a great way to help your animal!Chase Milner March 20, 2018
"My Lab mix Tucker, is a new client of Dip'n Dogs. After just a few assisted swims with Rachel, we have seen great results with his weight loss and overall behavior. Rachel is fun and motivating when in the water and Tucker really loves his weekly swim session!"
Patrick Haggerty March 22, 2018
"Rachel is amazing! The changes in Blu’s overall physical health have been worth every effort. I recommend hydrotherapy for any dog’s overall fitness health."
Jennifer Corso Leonard April 29, 2018
"Rachel is wonderful with our fur baby Bella. We were told by Bella’s vet that she needed to lose some weight and we are already seeing results! Bella may not be the easiest client (very much a diva) but Rachel is so patient and gentle with her. Bella is a mix of husky and German Shepherd so we want to keep her fit to prevent conditions that are common with those breeds."
Kaela Rebecca April 30, 2018
"Our little Yorkie Jack has arthritis and our vet recommended trying hydrotherapy. Jack is a yipper but remains calm with Rachel! After his sessions, we do see Jack go up the two steps he usually avoids, with less hesitation and his walking seems easier! Thank you Rachel!"
Joni Browder April 30, 2018
"Our 11 year-old Yorkie just started hydrotherapy for his arthritis. Since starting, he’s a little more agile, and goes upstairs with more ease! Thanks Rachel for all you do and your extra TLC with our little Jack!"
Caitlin Browder May 5, 2018
My beagle, Badger, is overweight (like many beagles are) but I wasn’t too worried because we would go for long walk/runs to keep him healthy. BUT, his hips began to hurt and he wouldn’t walk for more than just a few minutes. I was worried he would become obese! I found Dip’n Dogs online and signed Badger up for hydrotherapy with Rachel. Not only is he almost back to normal with our walks but he has lost a bit of weight! The swims have definitely benefited him. Rachel is kind, patient and very flexible with scheduling appointments. Plus, her package deals help with the cost. I highly recommend her services. Both Badger and I are much happier than we were a month or so ago!”
Camille King July 12, 2018
“Jack’s mobility has benefited from the swimming sessions in a short time. I appreciate the patience and care Rachel has shown with our 17 year old Jack Russell. He needs special attention and she always gives him terrific assistance. I wish we had known about hydrotherapy earlier in his life. I know he would be in even better shape than he is now.”
Seth Miller July 12, 2018
"Hope is getting her second session of water therapy to help with her arthritis in her spine and legs and build her leg muscles back up! Maria and I love her trainer Rachel!"
Andrea Ruiz-Hays July 17, 2018
"Rachel has been awesome and I would most definitely recommend her!! My 12 year old beagle recently had knee surgery and she reached out to me through social media to let me know about her services. When it came time for him to start hydrotherapy as part of his recovery I contacted Rachel and set up an appointment. She was very responsive to messages and easy to get a hold of to set up our first appointment. After our first session my beagle started walking better and showing improvement in his healing process. I decided to buy a 4 session pack from her and taking him to see her weekly. Since we have started, his mobility has improved after each session and he gets around better than ever."
Caitlyn Canada July 17, 2018
"Rachel became certified in canine hydrotherapy through the certification program we offer through The Canine Fitness Institute. Since then, she has been working with dogs daily and I've seen her skills and competence grow by leaps and bounds. She opened her own business in 2018 - Dip N Dogs Canine Hydrotherapy and is doing a great job helping a wide variety of dogs regain strength after surgery, lose weight, become more mobile even though they have arthritis, and more. To further her knowledge, she continues to study and research a variety of orthopedic conditions that routinely affect dogs. She is very personable and her clients love her and the care she gives their dogs. If your dog can benefit from the incredible healing effects of hydrotherapy, I recommend you give Rachel a call."
Sherri Cappabianca July 17, 2018
"Jack was always extremely active throughout his life. Now at 17 plus years, he isn’t able to walk as well as we would like, due to arthritis and atrophy from age a medications he has taken. The hydrotherapy treatments with Rachel have made such a difference. They have helped him maintain his mobility and gain additional strength. Jack swims twice a week with Rachel. He swims very hard and I think he enjoys the mobility in the water that he no longer has on land. I wish we had known about hydrotherapy and Rachel earlier. I don’t think it is ever to early to start your dog swimming. I know would be in even better shape now than he is, if we had started him sooner. I highly recommend Rachel to work with your pet. She always has Jack’s best interest in mind and we certainly appreciate that."
Carrie Miller September 10, 2018
"Rachel is a pro when it comes to helping our dog Ellie feel comfortable during her swimming session. She has a kind nature towards animals and is really good at what she does. I'm glad we found out about her business. I highly recommend her services for your pet's well being."
Andy Schifaro September 10, 2018
"Rachel's calm, confident approach had our dog very comfortable."
Tracy Robinson September 10, 2018
"We are absolutely thrilled and happy to have Rachel swim with our dog Griffin. The exercise really has helped calm Griffin and his weight is right where it should be. Our vet was very happy with Griffins weight at his last check up this past week. They were happy that he had not gained any as many dogs do after being neutered. Griffin really loves his time with Rachel! she is a true dog lover."
Sara Palmer September 10, 2018
"Rachel was wonderful with my Dusty who had an FHO done on his right hip but his left hip is not so good either. As of right now his right has healed wonderfully and his left hip is holding strong! I believe it is because of hydrotherapy with Rachel. Dusty had his surgery in March and I can’t go fast enough for him on his walks! I might need some hydrotherapy myself!"
Terrie Sandefur October 3, 2018
"Rachel seems to see and love my Hannah's Spirit. Hannah recently said goodbye, for now, to Hazel, her litter mate and twin. Needing some fun new experiences and with a recent arthritis diagnosis, Dip'n Dogs was a nice adventure. Hannah enjoys the pool. Seems a natural swimmer. And Rachel has a good positive energy!"
Gwen Hartmann October 4, 2018
"Rachel is a caring and experienced dog guardian and is one of my dog, Maisie’s, favorite people. I highly recommend Dip'n Dogs!"
Marcia Caton February 18, 2019
"Sophie doesn't love the pool but Rachel was so great with her that Sophie was giving her kisses by the end! I'm so excited about Sophie continuing her hydrotherapy!"
Katlyn Billue February 18, 2019
"We are absolutely thrilled and happy to have Rachel swim with our dog Griffin. The exercise really has helped calm Griffin and his weight is right where it should be. Our vet was very happy with Griffins weight at his last check up this past week. They were happy that he had not gained any as many dogs do after being neutered. Griffin really loves his time with Rachel! she is a true dog lover."
Sara Palmer February 18, 2019
"Guinness and I are so happy that we met Rachel. She is super nice, gentle, patient and knows how to make Guinness comfortable in the pool, because he gets soo nervous. She is helping Guiness get back on his leg after a luxating patella injury. Right now he is doing great and starting to put his leg down when walking. I would definitely recommend Rachel- best hydrotherapy
:) and she does a great job in the pool. Thank you Rachel!"
Noelia Cocco February 18, 2019
"From the instant that I met Rachel, I felt comfortable with her and would have trusted her with any of my dogs. She came and worked with my senior, blind Shih Tzu this summer. My Millicent has arthritis, bad skin, allergies and had recently developed a heart murmur. Rachel made sure to go over Millie’s health history with me and was very aware of how Millie was doing the whole time she worked with her. It is great exercise for an old, lazy dog!"
Kristi Klein February 18, 2019