COULD HYDROTHERAPY HELP YOUR DOG?

Swimming is great exercise for humans, helping us keep fit and stay in shape - as well as being cooling on a hot day! It’s no different for our canine companions - they can reap the rewards of spending time in the water, too!

Hydrotherapy could be just what your dog needs to help with arthritic pain, to get him back to health after surgery or to help keep your dog in shape. Kirsty Skeates, Head Canine Hydrotherapist at Fit4Dogs Hydrotherapy Centre in Beverley said:
“Hydrotherapy is beneficial in a variety of ways. It’s great for aerobic conditioning but low impact on the joints and bones. It can be done all year round, too - sometimes it’s just too hot for a dog to go for a walk or run in summer and unsafe if the
pavements are covered in ice or salt in winter.

“Being supported in water means that dogs which have recently undergone surgery or have arthritis can move their joints and maintain muscle mass in a pain-free environment. And if they need to lose a few pounds, it’s perfect!

“Water itself has other benefits. It increases circulation, which is ideal for a dog’s skin and coat. It can increase lymph drainage, ridding the body of toxins and improving the immune system. Water can encourage better digestion and can promote balance and co-ordination. Plus, every dog loves playing in water, so it’s fun for them - and for the hydrotherapists working with them!”

Fit4Dogs work with the dog’s vet and require a vet referral form to consent to hydrotherapy sessions for all programmes. In turn, the vet is updated on the progress of the animal. You can be sure that the Fit4Dogs team of hydrotherapists, nurses and
trainers will look after your best friend to ensure a positive experience for you and him/her.

If you would like more information about hydrotherapy and Fit4Dogs, head on over to www.fit4dogsuk.com or

call 07849 256736