Companion Animal Welfare

Companion Dog: Hydrotherapy and Rehabilitation

Hydrotherapy is an evidence-based rehabilitation tool for dogs with orthopaedic and neurological conditions, significantly improving welfare through pain reduction and mobility restoration.

Key Facts

Hydrotherapy uses water's buoyancy to allow exercise with reduced joint loading
Underwater treadmills and swimming pools are the two main modalities in veterinary hydrotherapy
Canine hydrotherapy is regulated through professional bodies requiring specific qualifications in the UK
Conditions most commonly treated include hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament repair, and spinal injuries
Pain scores and mobility assessments typically improve significantly after courses of hydrotherapy

Welfare Considerations

Dogs with chronic orthopaedic pain have significantly impaired quality of life, affecting their ability to exercise, interact socially, and express natural behaviours. Hydrotherapy enables rehabilitation in dogs that cannot tolerate land-based exercise, accelerating return to function and reducing pain. Its welfare impact is substantial and evidence-based.

What You Can Do

Ask your vet for a referral to a qualified canine hydrotherapist if your dog has mobility problems
Choose a therapist accredited by the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists
Combine hydrotherapy with appropriate pain management for maximum benefit
Monitor your dog's mobility and pain indicators throughout the rehabilitation course
Consider hydrotherapy as ongoing maintenance for dogs with chronic joint disease