People have been using hydrotherapy for years to gain muscle strength and rehabilitate injuries. Recently this form of physical therapy has been on the rise with dog care as well.
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Definition
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Hydrotherapy is physical therapy that is completed in water. This can take the form of a swimming pool or a hydrotherapy treadmill. Hydrotherapy pools push water from one end to the other, encouraging the dog to swim. Hydrotherapy treadmills are located underwater, encouraging the dog to walk against the water.
Conditions Treated
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Hydrotherapy treadmills have been used to treat obesity, arthritis, post-surgical conditioning and strokes. This form of physical therapy is also used for pain management due to any number of conditions.
Exercise
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Hydrotherapy treadmills can allow a dog to exercise without damaging its joints. This can be used to exercise a dog when long walks are not an option, such as with older dogs.
Types
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Due to the ability to raise or lower the water level in a hydrotherapy treadmill, this form of therapy is appropriate for any breed of dog.
Safety
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Not all dogs are comfortable in the water and some breeds such as bulldogs can have difficulty swimming. It is important to make sure that even an experienced swimmer wears a life vest. In addition, the use of the treadmill should be regulated to prevent excessive exertion.
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