Hydrotherapy For Dogs

In traditional hydrotherapy, water in all its forms, hot or cold, steam or ice, is used to revitalize and restore the body. Water is also an ideal medium for any physical therapy. Whirlpools and water jets, when available, can be used to stimulate muscles and joints after physical injuries or surgery. Cold and heat in the form of ice packs or warm compresses are also used to treat local conditions.

Virtually all mammals enjoy the feeling of floating in water and will enter ponds, lakes, rivers, or the sea for the simple satisfaction of wading and swimming. Historically, warm water bathing has been used therapeutically throughout the world wherever there are natural hot springs. Hydrotherapy for dogs originated when vets in Japan arranged for dogs to be treated for a variety of medical conditions at hot spring spas in Hakone.

Water is an ideal vehicle for heat and cold. Cold water stimulates surface blood vessels to constrict, which inhibits blood flow and the cascade of chemical events that causes inflammation. External cold water redirects blood toward the internal organs, helping them to function more efficiently. Warm water dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the skin and muscles and easing stiffness. Improved circulation brings more oxygen, nutrients, and elements of the immune system to the body's cells. It helps remove waste products. Increased blood flow to the skin also reduces blood pressure.

Conventional veterinarians understand the value of buoyancy and water resistance for exercising injured dogs. Where hydrotherapy swimming pools are available, vets routinely refer dogs to hydrotherapists and consider the treatment to be an effective form of physiotherapy. Japanese vets appreciate the value of natural sulfur springs for treating dogs with certain skin conditions such as oily seborrhoea. Where hydrotherapy facilities for dogs exist they are frequently used.

Your vet may advise you of a designated pool in your area if your dog needs hydrotherapy. Otherwise, swimming in a lake or the sea will be beneficial for any dog that enjoys it.

Comments