Exercising in water has many benefits, including it being a low-impact sport and being surrounded by warm water increasing circulation and helping to reduce pain, swelling and stiffness.
Many people attend water aerobics classes for these reasons, and vets have for a long time recommended the use of water therapy for race horses and greyhounds. But now the treatment is becoming more widely available for pet dogs, and is gaining many supporters who have seen the difference the sessions make to their dogs' well being.
The Benefits of Hydrotherapy
The UK-based Canine Hydrotherapy Organisation recommends the benefits of the treatment for animals with arthritis, which are recovering from injuries and operations, as a general conditioning and strengthening exercise, and for weight loss.
A spokeswoman for the organisation said: "It has long been established that hydrotherapy is beneficial in the recovery programme for certain injuries in the veterinary field. Hydrotherapy in conjunction with veterinary treatment can significantly improve the quality and rate of healing following surgery or traumatic injury. After surgery the careful use of hydrotherapy can help with rehabilitation and increase the chance of a successful return to full fitness. Enhancing general health and fitness can aid convalescence and speed up recovery."
A Personal Story
As the benefits of hydrotherapy for animals becomes more widely known, more companies are starting up to offer these services. One such company is Wet Woofers, which was opened in Shropshire in 2009 by Russ Davies and Sally Bridges.
The couple started looking into hydrotherapy when their eight-month-old labrador Barny was diagnosed with serious hip dysplasia. Sally said: "I was devastated that my lovely bouncy puppy was in so much pain and was struggling to walk. He had a bad limp and couldn't run around and exercise as he should. When he was a year old he had major hip surgery; my vet recommended hydrotherapy as it's non-weight bearing and is therefore good for joint problems and to aid with building up the muscles after the operation.
"The British public are renowned for their love of animals and for some, dogs are a lifeline, companion and best friend. I know what it is like as an owner and if I thought I could do something to help with such an illness then I'd do it. I am sure there are many others in the same situation."
New Businesses
After seeing the positive effects the therapy had on Barny, Russ wanted to offer the service to other pooches in the area and so the couple opened Wet Woofers.
"Barny has benefitted so much, he is such a happy dog now," he said. "It is a business, but first and foremost we want to provide a safe, caring environment, and we want the dog to be comfortable and happy with the session. We want the dog to be happy, and we want owners to feel supported,and we want owners to feel supported."
It is important to take advice from a vet before starting any type of treatment.
Pam Griffin - Pam Griffin is a journalist working in Shropshire, UK. She is interested in first aid, singing and playing music, history, and ...
