Canine hydrotherapy is becoming more of a mainstream rehabilitation therapy. But with more and more centres opening up, what should you look for when choosing a centre for your dog?
The first and most important thing to check is whether the centre employs qualified members of staff. The hydrotherapists should have gained at least a Level 3 Certificate in Hydrotherapy for Small Animals. Also, the hydrotherapists should be members of either the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (narch.org.uk) or the Canine Hydrotherapists Association (canine-hydrotherapy.org).
Registered Hydrotherapists have a code of conduct and standards of practice to adhere to.
You can ask your vet for recommendations, look at the websites, social media pages for information. One of the best ways though, is to give the centre a call and ask to visit them. Most centre’s will be happy for you to come out, show you round and discuss your dog’s condition. It’s not all about bright colours and flash equipment, it’s having confidence in the staff to treat your dog correctly.
Things to bear in mind
Do they have enough competent staff for my dog’s condition? Most rehabilitation cases will require at least 2 members of staff in the first few sessions. At The Retreat, we are fortunate to have 4 qualified staff.
Does your dog require the use of an underwater treadmill? There are a few conditions where treadmill could be better, if available, or used in conjunction with the pool. Again, multiple members of staff maybe needed for a session in a treadmill, with one member being in the treadmill with your dog.
The pool and treadmill are essentially tools for your hydrotherapist to use. If the hydrotherapists are experienced, they can adopt either environment to suit your dog’s particular needs.
Is the centre able to deal with your giant breed dog? We have one of the largest pools in the South West.
Does the centre have an easy access ramp in to the water (Not allowing dogs to jump in off the side), are buoyancy jackets and/or harnesses used when swimming?
Staff should be in the water with your animal? You can’t support a cruciate tear by sitting on the side!
Other things to check
Do they have a shower area to rinse your animal? The pool water should be chlorinated or the use of Bromine or salt water is becoming more common. Chemical level checks should be done and recorded a few times a day. Ask to see them, if you are concerned with how the water looks, colour and clarity.
Is there a drying area, spare towels, groomers blower etc?Once you are happy with a centre you will then need to get a referral from your vet. This is a legal requirement whether the session is for rehabilitation, fitness or puppy sessions. Most centres will take your details and contact the vets for you.
On your first session, expect to go through terms & conditions. Exercise history and behaviour will be noted. A brief nose to tail check may be performed, you may not even notice, just thinking the staff are fussing your dog.
Everything should be explained regarding what will happen to your dog before, during & after your session, and what to do with your dog when you get home.
On the first session, most dogs will be unsure of its surroundings so very little swimming may take place. This will also be dependent on your dog’s condition, age, exercise history and general health.
We are more that happy to discuss any concerns, or answer any questions that you have, even if you are not in our area.
The Retreat, Canine Hydrotherapy
Tavistock Road, Okehampton, EX20 4LR
Tel: 01837 318411 | 07711 492 689
www.caninehydrodevon.co.uk
