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Hydrotherapy for Pet Rehabilitation: Indications and Benefits
Hydrotherapy is a type of physiotherapy in which pets perform therapeutic exercises in water. Veterinarians recommend this method for dogs suffering from obesity, hip dysplasia, arthritis, and other joint conditions.
It is also an effective way to recover after injuries, surgeries, muscle weakness (paralysis), or neurological disorders that affect coordination. This rehabilitation therapy helps restore lost functions, correct gait, and normalize body weight. A course of hydrotherapy (there are three main types) can be prescribed for pets of any age, and puppies from 4 months old may undergo it for preventive purposes.
Swimming in a Pool
Swimming provides physical activity without putting weight on the limbs, making it especially beneficial for pets with excess weight, walking difficulties, or recent limb injuries. Pool swimming burns calories, improves endurance, and strengthens the muscles and cardiovascular system.
Exercises on an Underwater Treadmill
The buoyancy of water reduces joint stress while creating resistance that strengthens muscles and joints. Hydrostatic pressure softens joint movements. Other benefits of this method include:
- Ability to target specific muscle groups and joints by adjusting the water level.
- Adjustable treadmill speed tailored to the pet’s needs and condition.
- Improved gait training by practicing walking and trotting patterns.
- Stretching muscles and reducing pain thanks to warm water.
- Relief of joint and muscle tension since body weight is reduced underwater.
- Reduced swelling in the affected limb and improved circulation.
- Easy observation of movements in a controlled water environment, which is difficult in natural water bodies.
The number and frequency of treadmill sessions are determined individually based on diagnosis, age, overall health, and the owner’s possibilities.
Whirlpool Therapy
This method provides a highly controlled workout combined with the therapeutic benefits of water jets massaging the limbs. The water level and jet intensity are adjusted according to the pet’s needs. A whirlpool bath gently affects tissues, relaxes muscles, improves blood and lymph flow, reduces pain, and relieves spasms.
Hydrotherapy is an effective way to support a pet’s health and restore physical activity. Swimming in natural bodies of water is also beneficial, but when hydrotherapy is prescribed for rehabilitation purposes, it should be carried out under a specialist’s supervision in a dedicated facility.