Hydrotherapy For Horses & Dogs
Equine Hydrotherapy
Equine hydrotherapy uses water as a method of providing rehabilitation following an injury, as well as being used to help build and maintain fitness in some cases. Types of hydrotherapy suitable for horses include swimming, water treadmills, static spas, and cold hosing of limbs.
You & Yours Chiropractic Care offers a swimming hydrotherapy system for horses.
Swimming can be used to build fitness and stamina, improve muscle tone and can be helpful when a horse is recovering from an injury. One of the major benefits of swimming is the lack of concussion on the horse’s legs compared to fast work, like galloping. Swimming has typically been used by the racing world to help train horses with fragile limbs, but it is increasingly also being used by event horses as well.
Dog Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy for dogs is a form of recovery therapy that allows the canine to use the buoyancy of water to prevent bearing weight on injured or disabled portions of the body. Hydrotherapy is used to aid postoperative recovery times and slow the actions of degenerative conditions. It may also be used as a common fitness exercise for dogs.
Simultaneously, water therapy stimulates, strengthens and relaxes the body. Water therapy may also improve balance, coordination, and increase overall energy levels, all while reducing pain and stress.
Other benefits of water therapy include:
- Water increases circulation, ideal for skin and coat.
- Water can increase lymph drainage, rid the body of toxins, and improve the immune system.
- Water can encourage better digestion and can promote balance and coordination.
- Hydrotherapy can also help dogs who need to shed a few pounds. A great form of low-impact exercise, regular walks on the underwater treadmill or swimming in a pool can help promote weight loss and general fitness in dogs.
