Hydrotherapy is a technique widely used in people to relieve pain, accelerate rehabilitation processes, increase muscles and restore the functionality of the joints . The aquatic environment cushions movements minimizing the impact on the joints and also acts as a light weight session. Well, for some time now, dogs can also benefit from it.
The benefits of water therapy
This technique helps to cope with the symptoms of osteoarthritis, typical of advanced ages; It can improve functionality in the case of hip dysplasia, after operations, accidents, injuries and even in cases of muscular dystrophy due, for example, to a malformation.
As in people, the physical exercise that the dog performs in hydrotherapy will (provided it is accompanied by a healthy diet appropriate to the activity and age of the dog) lose weight, so this therapy is highly indicated in obese dogs that , in addition, their mobility is reduced as a result of the extra kilos.
Hyperactive dogs will burn off all their energy thanks to exercise in the water, it will decrease their stress and help them to rest. It will also be good for older dogs as the impact on their joints will be minimal. And everyone, without exception, will get a boost of spirits and energy.
Hydrotherapy techniques
To begin with, before taking the dog to hydrotherapy we should have the approval of the veterinarian. You should know that there are dogs for which this technique is discouraged .
In hydrotherapy, an underwater belt is usually used for the dog to walk , always guided by an expert and a pool for swimming (with a life jacket to increase buoyancy) and doing specific exercises. There are canine hydrotherapy centers that also include a Jacuzzi, to relax and have a massage effect thanks to the bubbles, and contrast baths, to improve the circulatory system.
Would you like to know more about this revolutionary technique for dogs? Is your pet a few years old and suffers the typical pains of age? Have you been diagnosed with hip dysplasia? Keep reading!
