The water is great for humans, whether they are looking to cool down or stay in shape. Our canine companions are no different.
Water may be the best thing for an old dog.
Here’s a quick overview of some of the many benefits underwater treadmills offers to our loyal friends.
Hydrotherapy for dogs – What is it?
Hydrotherapy relies on water to treat a wide range of conditions. Sessions can last from 10 minutes up to half an hour.
There are three main methods of hydrotherapy dogs, each with different equipment serving different purposes.
The underwater treadmill is used commonly for arthritis and joint pain.
Dogs recovering from surgery can use Whirlpool therapy to get great pain relief.
Dog pools provide water resistance for joint motion and muscle strengthening. It is primarily used to target the shoulders, elbows, and chest muscles.
What are the advantages of hydrotherapy?
Recovery from surgery or injury
Vets may recommend hydrotherapy to your dog in order to speed up healing from injuries and surgeries. Hydrotherapy is non-weight bearing and has water resistance. It can also help you get back to your health.
Dogs lose muscle very quickly if they aren’t moving. Hydrotherapy is a way for dogs to strengthen their joints, keep their muscle mass up, and allow them to move comfortably while minimizing their discomfort. This therapy and recovery session uses warmer water because it loosens the muscles.
Hydrotherapy sessions should be supervised by a veterinarian before being started.
Pain relief
Dogs can suffer from arthritis, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, osteoarthritis of shoulder and other painful conditions. Exercise can be very difficult for canine patients with these conditions.
Dogs that take a dip at the pool can feel light and free from stress, thanks to the weightlessness we all experience.
Increased blood circulation, especially if the water temperature is high, and gentle pressure from the water can do wonders for swelling joints. It’s a drug-free method to pain relief.
Keep fit
Hydrotherapy can be a great exercise to improve muscle condition and fitness.
This is a great method for show, agility and working dogs. This is also helpful for elderly dogs that are unable to walk or need to maintain their muscle mass.
Hydrotherapy can be done in a shorter time than a similar exercise on the land.
If your dog is athletic and needs to be trained or exercised, colder water may be recommended. This will help maintain a normal, healthy body temperature.
Like humans, dogs’ heart and lungs are also more efficient in water than they are when exercising. No matter what method of hydrotherapy is used, dogs will benefit from deep exercise and a healthy environment.
Weight loss
The best thing about having your dog in the pool is the potential weight loss that can be achieved by moving in the water.
Exercise on land can be difficult for dogs that aren’t fit. Extra weight can put strain on their joints. The strain won’t be as severe if your dog is in water buoyancy.
You can train your dog to work the muscles without placing too much strain on the joints. Even the most immobile can take a dip in the water.
Are there any potential risks to hydrotherapy?
There are many clear benefits to hydrotherapy. However, there are also some potential dangers. The most common are:
Too much water in the ears can lead to ear infections
Skin conditions and dry skin
If dogs are not properly controlled, excessive tiredness can lead to drowning.
It is important to understand that there are significant differences between hydrotherapy with a professional and just letting your dog splash around in the local pool.
Unregulated water temperatures or bacteria can lead to more harm than good. A dog that has had surgery may not have the strength or endurance to remain afloat after it is done without the right support.
Professionals with expertise in dog injuries and pain relief are required to provide hydrotherapy. Your vet should be consulted before starting any new treatment.
