Hydrotherapy for Clinical Rehabilitation
Heated Pool and Underwater Treadmill For Dog Swimming
Hydrotherapy is a complementary therapy which is carried out under veterinary referral by our team of qualified small animal hydrotherapists. The process of a dog swimming and using an underwater treadmill helps reduce the strain and keeps your pet active
The most common areas of treatment are:
- Post-operative rehabilitation including orthopaedic and neurological conditions.
- Enhancement of quality of life in patients with degenerative conditions such as arthritis – slowing degeneration and treating compensatory issues.
The benefits of dog swimming/hydrotherapy are extensive including improvement in proprioception (balance and sensory awareness), increased joint range of movement, decreased pain perception, improvement in muscle strength and tone and an overall increase in the speed of recovery from injury or trauma.
As specialist therapists, we approach each patient holistically utilising the properties of water and rehabilitation techniques in a calm, safe environment.
The team at Vet Rehab NI places emphasis on what’s in the best interest for the best possible outcome at the heart of all that we do. Our commitment is to build a bond of trust with your dog and to deliver a programme which will help them lead a happy and fulfilling life. For more info message us and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
What does a typical hydrotherapy session look like🤔
Why Use an Incline on a Canine Underwater Treadmill?
Using an incline on a canine underwater treadmill enhances both rehabilitation and general fitness. The combination of incline and water resistance creates a low-impact, high-efficiency workout tailored to various goals:
1. Strengthens Muscles
Walking on an incline engages key muscle groups—especially the gluteals, hamstrings, quadriceps, and core—more than flat walking.
Great for athletic dogs, working breeds, or pets needing muscle toning.
2. Improves Cardiovascular Fitness
The incline increases cardiovascular demand without increasing speed or concussive force on joints.
Ideal for weight loss programs, performance conditioning, or general fitness enhancement.
3. Enhances Proprioception and Balance
Dogs must adjust their gait and balance more on an incline, improving neuromuscular control.
Beneficial for sport dogs, seniors, and those in neuro rehab.
4. Increases Joint Range of Motion
Promotes greater hip and stifle (knee) flexion/extension, supporting joint health and flexibility.
Helps both arthritic dogs and active dogs maintain mobility.
5. Low-Impact, High-Intensity Exercise
The incline allows a more intense workout without joint strain thanks to the water’s buoyancy.
Especially helpful for dogs with joint disease, but equally valuable for fit dogs needing a safe challenge.
6. Versatile for All Life Stages
Puppies: Low incline builds foundational strength and body awareness.
Adults: Boosts endurance and power.
Seniors: Supports mobility and fitness with joint-friendly resistance.
Hydrotherapy
OR £435 package of 10 treatments
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Heated pool-based hydrotherapy and aquatic massage
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Hydro Physio Underwater treadmill treatment
Insurance Claims
As we are registered with the National Association of Registered Hydrotherapists http://www.narch.org.uk/ and Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists https://www.irvap.org.uk/institute-of-canine-hydrotherapists/ you may be able to claim for hydrotherapy treatment on your pet insurance policy under complementary therapy. We accept no responsibility should your insurer refuse to pay for any treatment. Whilst payment for your treatment sessions must be made upfront, we can assist you with your insurance claim should you require this.