Benefits of Hydrotherapy: How Can It Help My Dog?

Hydrotherapy is a form of physical therapy for humans and animals alike. In its simplest form, hydrotherapy for dogs involves the use of water to aid in the rehabilitation process after an illness or injury. This type of therapy can be especially beneficial as it increases their range of motion and strengthens muscles that may have weakened due to illness or injury. A veterinary facility with a good swimming pool can provide your dog with many health benefits.

Let’s take a look at the top advantages of hydrotherapy for dogs.

1. Improved Mobility and Flexibility

Water provides resistance which helps increase your dog’s range of motion while also providing support to their joints and muscles. This helps reduce pain associated with arthritis and other degenerative joint diseases. The buoyancy provided by the water also reduces joint stress, allowing your dog to move more freely without risking further injury.

2. Strengthens Muscles

The resistance provided by the water can help strengthen weak muscles, improve endurance, and increase muscle mass in cases where muscle atrophy has occurred due to disuse or age-related conditions. In addition, hydrotherapy can help prevent muscle loss associated with aging by keeping them toned and healthy. A facility that offers hydrotherapy for dogs should have professional trainers to help strengthen your dog’s joints and muscles. 

3. Relieves Pain

Hydrotherapy is known for its analgesic effects on both humans and animals alike. For dogs, this means that hydrotherapy can be used to relieve pain from conditions such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, and chronic pain syndromes. This also includes post-operative care after surgery such as ACL repairs or other orthopedic procedures.

4. Improves Cardiovascular Health

Swimming, which is a form of hydrotherapy, helps increase cardiovascular health by increasing your dog’s heart rate while still providing support through the water’s buoyancy.  This makes it easier on their joints compared to traditional exercises like running on a treadmill or walking outside. 

Additionally, swimming in warm water encourages blood flow throughout the body which helps reduce inflammation and improves the overall health and well-being of your pet.

5. Supports Weight Loss Goals

The low-impact nature of hydrotherapy makes it an ideal exercise option for overweight or obese pets that may need to shed some pounds without putting too much strain on their joints or muscles during exercise sessions. Hydrotherapy for dogs is particularly useful for pups who may have difficulty losing weight due to existing medical conditions like arthritis or hip dysplasia.

Additionally, because swimming requires more energy than regular exercises like walking or running, your pup will burn more calories per session than they would with any other type of activity.

Improve Your Pet’s Health and Well-Being With Hydrotherapy For Dogs at The Dog Retreat and Spa

If you want your furry friend to enjoy all of the benefits of hydrotherapy, The Dog Retreat & Spa has the perfect swimming pool for your dog. 

The Dog Retreat & Spa is designed to cater to the needs of all types of dogs. We have even added an indoor swimming pool where you and your pet can enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy for dogs. Our trained staff is always at hand to ensure the safety of your dog. Contact us today to get started!