You should seek the advice of your veterinarian if your pet is ill as only he or she can correctly advise on the diagnosis and recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for your pet.

Hydrotherapy is widely used in the rehabilitation of human patients with orthopedic and neuromuscular diseases, and it is now becoming more widely used for veterinary patients

Movement is an important part of the recovery process for healing bones, muscles and nerves and yet in the early stages of recovery full weight bearing may be difficult or impossible, and may be associated with increased discomfort. Swimming in lukewarm water may aid recovery in some cases  by encouraging limb movement, without the need for full weight bearing.

Hydrotherapy has been used for several years in the treatment of performance horses with orthopedic or neuromuscular problems and now it is gaining popularity with veterinarians treating dogs recovering from trauma, or paralysis.

A daily 10-15 minute swim has been recommended for paralysed dogs because it provides exercise for an otherwise immobile animal, encourages limb movement and stimulates urination and defecation.

Your veterinarian will advise when hydrotherapy is recommended and where local facilities are available.

Updated October 2013