Aqua Therapy Program for Osteo-arthritis   

Hydrotherapy using the Underwater Treadmill: The hospital uses the underwater treadmill for hydrotherapy. The warm water helps increase blood circulation, increases flexibility of muscles, joints and relieves pain. Water resistance helps to build muscle mass, strengthen limbs, and provide a cardiovascular workout. Underwater treadmill therapy provides continuous effective rehabilitation progress due to the ability to change the speed, resistance and depth of water in the treadmill. Geriatric, post-surgical and obese animals can exercise without injury for longer periods of time in the underwater treadmill than they could on land. The geriatric patient can rebuild muscle mass and prevent muscle atrophy, the post-surgical patient can have an earlier return to exercise and thus full function, and an overweight animal will experience a decrease in weight and an increase in overall fitness.   Life vests made for dogs are used in the treadmill. The vests have handles that can be used to guide the dog. Most dogs, even if uncertain about being in water, typically accept hydrotherapy after 1-2 sessions without any problem. Hydrotherapy is usually combined with other physical therapy methods such as soft-tissue therapy and passive ROM exercises.

Exercise programs are always individualized for each patient.

Includes:                     

·        Condition assessment / Goal establishment session

·        Personalized Exercise Program

·        4 sessions in the Underwater Treadmill

o       Supervised by a Certified Canine Rehabilitator

o       Reassessment prior to each session

·        Nutritional Guidance

·         Home therapeutic exercises and treatments recommendations

For more information or to set an appointment,  please contact:

Animal Health & Rehab Center

email:  ahrcvet@aol.com