Hydrotherapy
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How do I know if my pet can benefit from hydrotherapy?
A. Speak to your veterinary surgeon as hydrotherapy can be beneficial for animals with a wide range of conditions.
Q. How do I make an appointment?
A. We require a referral from your veterinary surgeon with your pet's full clinical history prior to commencement of hydrotherapy treatment.
Q. Is hydrotherapy covered by my pet insurance?
A. Hydrotherapy is a well recognised therapy to most insurance companies as part of your pet's rehabilitation. You will need to contact your insurance company to check that they provide this cover and obtain a valid claim form. Please bring this to your appointment along with yo
ur insurance policy documents.
Q. What qualifications do you hold?
A. Our hydrotherapy service is provided by a team of trained and qualified veterinary nurses with a wide knowledge of rehabilitation, who are supported by a registered on site physiotherapist. We are a member of The Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) and our nurses have attended Hawksmoor (accredited qualification for those working in hydrotherapy) and ISRM (pool plant operators certificate) training courses.
Q.How do you manoeuvre my pet into the pool?
A. Our experienced staff are aware that your pet may be scared of entering our pool at first or may even be unable to walk, in which case they will either use our hoist or coax your pet into the pool via a ramp which is fitted level with the pool or steps.
Q. Can all dogs swim?
A. Surprisingly not all dogs can swim, that is why when they come for hydrotherapy they are always fitted with an appropriately sized life jacket. This means that when they are put in the pool they will still remain afloat even if they don’t use any of their limbs. Most dogs can eventually be taught to relax in the water and will start to swim. All dogs whatever their swimming ability will always wear a life jacket during hydrotherpay sessions.
Q. Can my dog still come swimming even if they're scared of wat
er?
A. All dogs are welcome to come and try hydrotherapy even if they are scared of the water. The first session of hydrotherapy is always used as an introduction to the pool and the staff involved. There is lots of play with toys and encouragement with treats to help the dog feel relaxed and comfortable in their surroundings.