There’s no doubt about it—dogs need exercise. Whether your pooch runs a few laps while chasing a chew toy or goes on mile-long runs, this form of exercise is essential to a dog’s well being. But what can you do when your dog is injured and walking becomes complicated? Therapy for dogs is on the rise and many veterinarians are recommending hydrotherapy for injured pooches to get them back on track to recovery.
Hydrotherapy isn’t much different for dogs than it is for humans. Canine hydrotherapy involves the use of water to help relieve pain and to regain strength after injuries and/or surgery. There are canine rehabilitation centers across the United States that use underwater treadmills and rehabilitation pools to help build back muscle without putting force on the dog’s joints. The water decreases the dog’s weight and provides resistance in all the right areas needed for recovery.
As a pet owner myself, I have seen first hand the effect arthritis has had on my pooch and wish I’d known about hydrotherapy to help my dog’s fragile joints. Although there are many services offered to dogs that may seem a bit over the top, (Doggie Yoga, ‘Doga‘) being one of them—I know hydrotherapy isn’t one of those.
“The dog often feels so much better after the first swim that the next time they look forward to it and enjoy it much more,” said Lori Beuerle from the Canine and Conditioning Rehabilitation Group. “We definitely believe the dogs enjoy hydrotherapy. Clients often comment on how much happier their dog is after a hydrotherapy session. For geriatric clients, we see happier dogs living longer and more comfortably.”
Hydrotherapy isn’t just some extra expense for pet owners. This form of therapy has proven results, not to mention it is an activity dogs actually enjoy. A little pain-free exercise, what is better than that?
As always, you should consult your veterinarian when considering a therapy method for your dog. For more information on canine hydrotherapy and the benefits of swimming for dogs, check out the CRCG website and check out the video below from The Animal Rehabilitation Center.
