Canine Warm Water Therapy
Swimming Helps With Conditioning, Confidence, and Rehabilitation
Jun 1, 2009
Rehabilitation for an ACL Injury
When Carson, an eleven-year old whippet was diagnosed with a torn ACL, his people logically made the choice to have the injury surgically repaired. They were warned, however, that without careful rehabilitation and rebuilding of the muscle, there was imminent danger of re-injury.
Dog Water Therapy for Injury Rehabilitation
In addition to crate rest and short walks, Carson's veterinarian suggested another form of rehabilitation, canine water therapy. Twice a week, Carson attended half hour sessions at a canine "spa" pool to work out on an underwater treadmill and do free-swims with a canine theapist. Since working in the water places less pressure on the joint, it was the most effective method of rehabilitation for Carson's particular injury. After 12 weeks of therapy, Carson was walking and running with scarcely a limp. He did not re-injure his leg.
Water Therapy Improves Dog Confidence
Warm water therapy also assists dogs who may have come from an abusive situation or are just lacking confidence. Debbie La Monica, owner and therapist at SplashDog Spa in Edmonds, Washington reports of a Golden Retriever who lived on a lake, and was unable to swim. His owner was afraid the dog might drown if he couldn't be taught to swim properly. After five sessions in the spa pool, the dog was finally swimming happily and safely at home.
Dog Water Therapy Improves Conditioning
Certain canine athletic or working events, such as flyball dogs, lure coursing, and police dog work require the dog to remain in top physical condition at all times. For owners with busy schedules and inclement weather, bringing the dog in for a swim session can play a vital role in maintaining conditioning.
Dog Water Therapy Options
Depending on the needs of the dog, a session at a canine spa may include swimming, underwater treadmill work, or simply water massage. While some spas offer unstructured swim time sessions, where you can work your own dog in the water, most have a certified therapist in the water with your dog, monitoring the exercises and noting progress based on previously agreed goals.
How to Pick A Good Dog Spa
Check out your choice of spa carefully before committing to a session. The spa should have certified therapists to work with your dog, and offer a structured treatment plan with clear goals. You should be able to attend the sessions with your dog and offer encouragement, as initially the pool can be a new and scary environment. As with any spa, the water and surroundings should be very clean and sanitary. Don't be afraid to ask questions about sanitation methods, or about the credentials of the staff.
In the right place and time, a spa therapy can be a life-changing experience for your canine companion.
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