Hydrotherapy in the Underwater Treadmill
Most dogs adjust very well to the water, and come to enjoy it. We start your pet at a very slow speed and duration, with a gradual increase in accordance with their rehabilitation program. They are fitted with life-jackets, and may be encouraged with treats over the side. If you do not wish for your pet to receive treats, or if you have special treats, let us know!
Our rehabilitation therapist is in the water with all patients until the pet is comfortable, and the therapist is confident of the pet's ability during the workouts. The underwater treadmill is an excellent tool for weight loss as the added resistance of the water provides for more effective exercise than simply walking on land. Depending on the level of the water, it is possible for a pet to bear as little as 40% of its body weight, which significantly reduces strain on joints that may normally be stressed. For athletes, show, or working dogs, the underwater treadmill can serve as the perfect source for conditioning and endurance-building as the water can help to increase cardiopulmonary fitness and build muscle without straining the animal.