Hydrotherapy is an effective form of rehabilitation for dogs recovering from injuries, surgeries, or simply improving their fitness levels. Hydrotherapy for dogs involves the use of water in different forms such as swimming, underwater treadmills, and whirlpools to help dogs recover from injuries, build strength, and improve their overall health. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of hydrotherapy for dogs, how it works, and the different types of hydrotherapy available.
Hydrotherapy offers several benefits for dogs, including:
Rehabilitation
Hydrotherapy can help dogs recover from injuries such as torn ligaments, fractures, and surgeries. The buoyancy of water helps reduce the stress on joints and muscles, making it easier for dogs to move and exercise without experiencing pain.
Improved Fitness
Hydrotherapy is an excellent way to help dogs lose weight and improve their fitness levels. Swimming and other forms of hydrotherapy provide a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints, allowing dogs to build muscle and increase endurance.
Stress Relief
Swimming and other forms of hydrotherapy provide dogs with a calming and stress-relieving experience. The release of endorphins during exercise can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
How Hydrotherapy Works
Hydrotherapy works by utilizing the properties of water to aid in the rehabilitation and fitness of dogs. Water provides resistance, which can help build muscle and improve cardiovascular health. Additionally, the buoyancy of water helps reduce the stress on joints and muscles, making it easier for dogs to move and exercise without experiencing pain. The viscosity of water provides resistance to movement, which can help build strength and endurance.
Types of Hydrotherapy for Dogs
Swimming
Swimming is the most common form of hydrotherapy for dogs. It provides a low-impact workout that is easy on the joints and helps build strength and endurance.
Underwater Treadmills
Underwater treadmills provide a controlled environment for dogs to exercise in. The resistance of the water can be adjusted to suit the dog’s needs, and the water level can be raised or lowered to provide additional support.
Whirlpools
Whirlpools provide a massage-like experience for dogs, helping to improve circulation and reduce inflammation. They are often used for dogs recovering from injuries or surgeries.
Preparing Your Dog for Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy can be an effective form of rehabilitation and fitness for dogs. However, before starting hydrotherapy, it is essential to prepare your dog to ensure their safety and comfort during the therapy sessions. In this blog post, we will discuss how to prepare your dog for hydrotherapy, including what to expect during the therapy sessions and how to choose the right hydrotherapy facility.
Schedule a Veterinary Exam
Before starting hydrotherapy, it is essential to schedule a veterinary exam to ensure your dog is healthy enough for hydrotherapy. Your veterinarian can also recommend the best type of hydrotherapy for your dog’s specific needs.
Choose the Right Hydrotherapy Facility
When choosing a hydrotherapy facility, look for one that is experienced in working with dogs and has certified hydrotherapists on staff. Additionally, make sure the facility is clean and well-maintained, with adequate safety measures in place.
Introduce Your Dog to Water
If your dog has never been in water, swim lessons can also help them learn how to swim properly. Swimming is a skill that must be learned, and dogs that are not taught how to swim may struggle in the water. A qualified instructor can work with your dog to teach them the proper technique for swimming, including how to use their legs and paddle their paws to stay afloat. They can also teach your dog how to enter and exit the water safely, making swimming a fun and safe experience for them.
About Dip’ n Dogs Hydrotherapy – Orlando, FL
At Dip’n Dogs Hydrotherapy, we are certified and caring professionals devoted to restoring and enhancing the health and happiness of your beloved pup. Encompassing a pool, as well as a certified hydrotherapist, this can provide effective and long lasting results for your pet’s injury or illness. We are conveniently located in Winter Park, FL. Contact us today at (407) 227-0030. We look forward to hearing from you!
"I highly recommend Dip’n Dogs Canine Hydrotherapy! Rachel does a phenomenal job with the dogs and it’s clear she loves what she does. She makes sure the dogs are comfortable and confident in the water."
July 6, 2022
"From the instant that I met Rachel, I felt comfortable with her and would have trusted her with any of my dogs. 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!"
July 6, 2022
"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. Griffin really loves his time with Rachel, she is a true dog lover!"
July 6, 2022
"Rachel has been awesome and I would most definitely recommend her! After our first session my beagle started walking better and showing improvement in his healing process. Since we have started, his mobility has improved after each session and he gets around better than ever."
July 6, 2022
"So incredibly glad we found Dip’n Dogs at the perfect time! Our girl has only been to two sessions so far, but already on the second one, she was showing way more confidence, swimming laps across the pool on her own, and showing more interest in the water overall."