Using an underwater treadmill for dogs is a popular option when it comes to assisting our pets to recover from minor injuries to fully rehabilitating from major surgery. There are many reasons why using an underwater treadmill is becoming such a popular option for dogs:
At the Animal Rehab Klinik, we use a state-of-the-art canine underwater treadmill to do our hydrotherapy. Set at a comfortable warm temperature the water is perfect for any time of year. Besides walking, for small to medium dogs we can also swim dogs in the water.
Hydrotherapy can benefit most dogs suffering from joint pain, recovering from surgery, neurological conditions and general weakness.
Besides walking, for small to medium dogs, we can also swim them in the water which is great when it’s too cold outside to swim.
The underwater treadmill is not just limited to dogs either, theoretically, any animal can use it…as long as they’re ok being in the water. Cats, Rabbits, Sheep, for example, could do a session in there.
The other way it can be used is without water – then it works just like a regular treadmill. We’ve been known to bring our dogs in for an exercise session from time to time when it’s raining outside.
Yes, there are. Some of these contraindications are absolute (meaning they’re 100% not advised), while some are relative (meaning we can proceed with caution):
Absolute: Open Wounds, Not Recommended By Vet, Unhealed Fractures, Incontinence
Relative: Lowered Immune System, Heart/lung disease, Allergies, Anxiety, Not Going To Toilet Prior.
Absolutely – the #1 thing is to make sure your dog has gone to the toilet. If your dog decides to go to the toilet during their session it means we need to empty the tank and start again. It may also mean we need to reheat our water and delay the following patients. As a result, your dogs’ appointment may be cut short and a cleaning fee applied.
Apart from this, we do appreciate you brushing your dogs prior and bringing a towel to your appointment.
We also recommend in most cases that the day of appointment that you minimise exercise prior. The underwater treadmill is a workout in itself, and if your dog has already exercised that day it may mean they pull up a little bit sorer than normal.
Call us on 02 9188 0863 or book your dog online for an initial consultation with us.
During our initial consultation, we will do a thorough assessment, digital gait scan and recommend a course of treatment. Sometimes there are better options for your dog, rather than the underwater treadmill which could include laser, rehab, osteo or chiro.
Our second consultation is where we will begin the underwater treadmill therapy if that’s what we think will benefit your dog. Prior to this appointment, we will need a referral from your vet which you can get here. You are more than welcome to bring this to your initial consultation if you like. The vast majority of vets are happy to recommend hydrotherapy if there are no contraindications. In most cases, vets are happy to fill out a referral form if they have recently seen your dog meaning you may not need a vet consultation just for the referral. We have a good working relationship with most local vets, so if you are unsure please call us.
We do recommend bringing a towel, more so to keep your dog dry on their way home. But we have plenty of towels on-site for you to use. Dog ponchos are really convenient as well, so bring one if you have one, but we do also sell them in our clinic.
