South Brandon Farm
Brancepeth
Crook
Co Durham
DL15 9AT
Tel: 0191 3789570
Mob: 07854 319051
info@durhamk9hydro.co.uk

Physical rehabilitation, an integral part of the human injury recovery regime for decades, is now available to dogs that suffer from similar types of injuries and disabilities. With hydrotherapy, we can introduce therapeutic exercise post surgery much quicker than if land based only. Its value is the effect of the warmth and pressure of the water as well as the
buoyancy provided.

How Does it Work?

     The underlying principles of hydrotherapy depend on the physical properties of water to aid      in the strengthening and re-education of the dogs limbs.

     The buoyancy of water decreases the impact on weight-bearing areas of the body. This can      reduce pain, allow a greater range of movement, and ease stiff joints.

     The warmth of the water can increase flexibility, mobility and contractility of muscles by      allowing them to relax. It also promotes circulation, which aids healing.

     Hydrostatic forces of the water can help to reduce inflammation (swelling) of injured joints,      therefore providing pain relief.

     Resistance caused by your dog moving in water increases muscle strength and      cardiovascular fitness (like aqua aerobics).

Could Hydrotherapy Help My Dog?

     Hydrotherapy can help with:

     Post operative rehabilitation – following orthopaedic surgery eg fracture or ligament (TPLO      cruciate) repair. It can be beneficial pre operatively to introduce your dog to the water in      preparation for post operative therapy.

     Skeletal and muscular disorders eg hip and elbow dysplasia (especially young dogs on      restricted exercise) and OCD.

     CDRM (Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy) Recovery from neurological conditions      e.g. following spinal surgery or disease, peripheral nerve injury, or long periods of cage      rest.

     Arthritis/Old Age – increases mobility and flexibility of affected joints and maintains fitness

     Weight reduction physical exercise in conjunction with a dietary programme prescribed by      your dog’s vet.

     General Fitness and Stamina training - working dogs, racing dogs, agility and show dogs      can all benefit from both the pool and underwater treadmill.

Durham k9 Hydrotherapy rehabilitation centre is a member of the Canine Hydrotherapy Association. Our hydrotherapy staff have completed all the training requirements and comply with all the safety standards set out by the CHA: www.k9hydrotherapy.co.uk We will only treat dogs with a veterinary referral, even dogs swimming for fun and fitness. This is to make sure your dog has no conditions that may contraindicate hydrotherapy. We can fax a referral form to your vets for you as long as your dog has been seen by your vet in the last six months.

MANY PET INSURANCE COMPANIES WILL PAY FOR HYDROTHERAPY IF YOUR VETERINARY SURGEON REFERS YOU.