Benefits of Hydrotherapy for Dogs

For centuries, humans have known about the benefits of hydrotherapy for working through injuries or managing chronic pain. But did you know that dogs can reap just as many benefits as humans?

Here’s what you need to know.

What is Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy – or water therapy – refers to any kind of therapeutic use of water to aid in healing injuries, managing chronic pain, or improving health. This may include things like swimming or walking in water, whether via underwater treadmills or walking in shallow water, such as along the beach. 

Treatments

Hydrotherapy can be beneficial in treating many different kinds of ailments and conditions due to its low-impact nature. These ailments include:

• Metabolic conditions such as Cushing’s or diabetes
• Neurological problems
• Weight loss
• ACL injuries
• Post-surgical healing and recovery
• other orthopedic injuries or conditions

Hydrotherapy at Home

Water therapy doesn’t always need to happen in a clinical setting and can actually be effective when done at home as well. You can do this by going swimming in a pool or other body of water, or walking in water, either in a shallow pool or at the beach. For small dogs, a kiddie pool in the yard can be very effective. 

Remember to always keep safety in mind when bringing your dog near water. Here are some pool safety tips for dogs. 

Hydrotherapy is a great way to treat or prevent illness or injury and doesn’t have to be expensive or clinical. Make it fun, and your dog will love getting healthy in the water!