Aquatic Therapy
Canine warm water therapy swimming is a great low-impact exercise that can be used to condition out-of-shape dogs as well as canine athletes. Swimming can be used to build strength and endurance, tone muscles and/or lose some pounds. Some of the benefits of warm water therapy:
- Relief of pain, swelling and stiffness
- Promotion of relaxation
- Joint mobilization
- Muscle strengthening, maintenance and restoration
- Increase in range of motion of affected limbs
- Improved circulation
- Cardiovascular fitness
The warmth of the water will relax muscles and brings about a decrease in pain and muscle spasm. Stiffness can be eased as the warmth of the water causes the blood vessels to expand. Hydrostatic pressure from water and the swim jets assist in reducing swelling. This is increased with exercising the limb to enhance the circulation. The resistance provided by the water helps improve strength and cardiovascular fitness. The water supports the weight of the animal and reduces stress on joints allowing them to participate in low impact exercise which reduces the pain they experience walking on land. The support of the water allows unbalanced and weak animals to stand without falling and they can move their body with greater ease. This limb use helps to prevent muscles from wasting away after injury and the dog is able to return to its normal function quicker.
Conditions that benefit from warm water therapy:
- Obesity
- Fitness & conditioning for working and competition dogs
- Muscle injuries, strains and imbalances
- Osteochondritis Dessicans (OCD) and Degenerative Joint Disease
- Arthritis
- Spinal injuries, Intervertebral Disc Disease, Disc Prolapse, Paralysis, Wobblers Syndrome, Proprioception deficits
- Amputation
- Post operative fracture repair
- Cruciate injury, surgery
- Hip surgeries
- Hip & elbow dysphasia
Sessions are scheduled by appointment only.
This service is available on a one to one ratio. Multiple guests will
require separate appointments.
Important Note: Therapy provided at Bark-A-Bout is not considered a medical procedure. We partner with your Veterinarian for a complete diagnosis of your dog’s condition and discuss warm water therapy options together, so we can begin your dog’s journey to vitality.