Hydrotherapy For Dogs
Hydrotherapy, or water cure, for dogs is a form of occupational or physiotherapy that uses water resistance to rehabilitate injuries and relieve pain. It’s especially beneficial for dogs who have a torn ACL, hip dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, arthritis, or dogs who have been paralyzed or lost a limb. This type of therapy works because it provides weightless physical therapy and removes the added pressure of gravity.
The buoyancy of water reduces the stress on your pup’s joints as they try to recover from their condition. Hydrotherapy is also a natural anti-inflammatory due to its ability to reduce swelling in body tissues.
Types of Hydrotherapy
There are three primary types of hydrotherapy for dogs, all using different types of equipment and serving specific purposes. Consult with your vet to determine the best fit for your dog.
- Underwater treadmill – best for those with joint issues and arthritis.
- Whirlpool therapy – used for dogs recovering from major surgeries and is great for pain relief.
- Dog pools – provides resistance enough to help the range of motion for a dog who might suffer from arthritis or degenerative joint issues. It mainly targets elbows, chest muscles, limbs, and shoulders.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Besides relieving pain and rehabilitating joints, there are a number of added benefits to hydrotherapy:
- Muscle strengthening
- Alleviation of muscle spasms
- Increased range of motion
- Promote blood circulation
- Tissue healing
- Cardiovascular fitness
- Gait modification
- Faster recovery from injuries
The cost of hydrotherapy varies depending on the type of injury or pain your dog has sustained, how long they need therapy and the type needed. In general, the average cost of a 30-minute therapy session might be between $40-$60.
Always consult with your vet to figure out the best course of action. What do you think of hydrotherapy? We would love to hear from you.