Extensive work in human physiotherapy has demonstrated that a suitably monitored course of hydrotherapy acts by encouraging a full range of joint motion in reduced weight conditions, thus improving muscle tone and promoting tendon repair without imposing undue stress on damaged tissues and improving cardiovascular stamina.
Hydrotherapy is the external use of water in the treatment of disease and injury. Water rehabilitation exercise promotes working muscle tissues, which affect heart rate, stroke volume, cardiac output and oxygen consumption.
It is very rewarding to see the benefits that hydrotherapy can bring in many cases. For example, a dog may have had surgery to repair a broken bone or ruptured ligament but is still
reluctant weeks later to use the affected leg.
When practiced by experienced individuals hydrotherapy allows the dog to begin
a carefully monitored and controlled treatment programme. Over a number of
sessions the dog can begin to use the affected joint, improve mobility, regain
muscle tone and return to pre operative fitness level and normal use of the
leg. In show dogs and racing dogs, it provides an effective means of
maintaining fitness, particularly in the winter months, and is a valuable aid
to weight control in the obese patient. There is no one set programme and
each hydrotherapy session will be tailored to an individual dog's condition and
fitness level - for these reasons it is advisable to consult your veterinary
surgeon prior to treatment.
There are three main users of canine Hydrotherapy:
Overweight dogs & dogs with poor
mobility
Normal
exercising of overweight dogs on hard surfaces can lead to damaged joints,
lameness and discomfort. Therefore, zero weight bearing exercise in the
pool can assist in weight loss. Dogs that cannot usually weight bear or
walk normally unaided find being buoyant and having zero impact on their joints
enables them to use their limbs freely in the water
Senior dogs.
Senior
dogs tend to become less active, arthritic and cannot comfortably exercise. Hydrotherapy
will increase range of movement of limbs, build muscle mass and tone enabling
exercise to be more comfortable. Senior dogs improve their general health
and fitness and enjoy a prolonged life.
Performance dogs
Working,
racing, show or those dogs requiring stamina will benefit from hydrotherapy
sessions. Programmes are tailored to keep them in top physical condition,
increasing the cardiovascular system, strengthening and maintaining muscles,
which will guard against other possible injuries.
At Greenacres we offer state-of-the-art hydrotherapy facilities, with the largest pool in Ireland. We are dedicated to providing a safe and stress free experience for your pet, using patience and respect, its therapy will be tailored to its own specific needs. We offer a wide range of services at very competitive prices, including collection and Saturday or evening appointments. All of our hydrotherapy sessions are available by appointment, or can be scheduled with boarding or grooming