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Our Mission:
to improve your dog's quality of life
At Alcester Canine Hydrotherapy, we offer specialized canine hydrotherapy rehabilitation and fitness services in a tranquil rural setting.
What is Canine Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy means simply ‘therapy in water’. Utilizing the unique properties of water to improve mobility, build strength, reduce pain, and promote overall well-being.
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Water temperature of 30-32 degrees stimulates blood circulation and relaxes the muscles.
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Buoyancy allows weight to be taken off the joints, allowing partial non-weight bearing exercise.
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Hydrostatic pressure provides sensory and proprioceptive input as well as decreasing hypersensitivity allowing a decrease in pain perception and can aid in reducing inflammation.
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Viscosity of the water creates resistance which increases muscle strength and tone via movement of limbs and can protect unstable injuries due to the slow movement.
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Why the underwater treadmill?
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Allows the water level to be adjusted to suit the needs of the patient.
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Allows more control over the dog’s movements - can alter speeds.
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Increases proprioception from having contact with the treadmill belt
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Helps to re-educate gait
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Increases muscle mass due to a degree of weight going through the limbs.
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Encourages equal weight bearing.
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Dogs often feel more relaxed when they can touch the floor
Hydrotherapy:
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Reduces pain, stiffness, and inflammation
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Encourages improved range of motion and flexibility
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Enhances healing times
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Encourages correct gait patterns in a controlled environment
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Encourages limb loading and placement
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Provides mental stimulation
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Improved fitness
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Develops muscle mass
Conditions we see:
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IVDD
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FCE
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Luxating patella
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Cruciate ligament
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Elbow and hip dysplasia
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Total hip replacement
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Femoral head and neck excision
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Fractures
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Neurological conditions
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Muscle Wastage
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Osteoarthritis​
Benefits of hydrotherapy
Short-term
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Muscle relaxation
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Improved circulation
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Pain relief
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Increased joint range of movement
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Enhanced cardiovascular function
Long-term
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Improved muscle strength
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Enhanced joint stability
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Improved posture and gait
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Weight management
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Pain management
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Improved quality of life
Referral Form
Working alongside veterinary surgeons, physiotherapists and other complementary therapists allows us to create a holistic treatment plan that truly benefits your pet.
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It is a Legal requirement following the Veterinary Surgeons Act (1966) to gain Veterinary referral prior to hydrotherapy treatment commencing for rehabilitation purposes.
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Click here for your Canine Hydrotherapy Referral Form
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Once completed, please send the form to me via email prior to the initial session.
alcestercaninehydrotherapy@hotmail.com
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