Water Treadmill
The underwater treadmill allows us to use both gravitational and buoyancy factors in a more controlled environment for your pet.
There are many reasons why the underwater treadmill is such a well-renowned option for your pet:
- Reduced impact on joints through an increase in buoyancy. This often results in pets being able to exercise harder with less pain.
- Ultimate exercise intensity control for the practitioner. We can alter time, speeds, incline, water depth and even direction!
- Builds strength in muscles that have become weakened due to pain or compensation.
- Greater control of joint range of motion.
What to expect?
Your initial appointment is approximately 60 minutes minutes and follow up appointments are 30-45 minutes.
Your initial visit is longer to allow us to get to know your pet and put them at ease. The hydrotherapist will talk to you about your pet and their capabilities before carrying out a full assessment and suggesting a treatment plan. This all takes place before we introduce your pet to the treadmill.
Before your session
- Your pet should not be fed for 2 hours before the session.
- Please ensure that your pet has had the opportunity to go to the toilet beforehand
- If your pet has any signs of sickness or diarrhoea, please rearrange.
What to bring with you
- Please bring all pets into the centre either on a lead or in a carrier.
- We recommend that you bring something to keep your pet warm after their session. Dog robes are ideal but a fleece blanket or dry towel.
- We will supply a harness for use during the session
- We have treats at the centre (they have earned it) but if your pet has allergies or a particular favourite please bring them with you.
At the session
- After the initial assessment we will take time to get your pet used to the treadmill. This may mean that they don’t spend long in the treadmill at the first session. This is entirely normal. We will build up the length of the session gradually in accordance with the treatment plan and your pet’s response to it. Your pet may initially be walked through the treadmill without any water so that they can get used to the equipment. We work at a pace to ensure that your pet in relaxed.
Do I stay with my pet?
- You are welcome to stay with your pet
- Some pets (like children) can be distracted by your presence, and we will discuss this with you and decide what is best.
- If you wish to leave your pet, there is a café on site (open 9-3) or you can wait in the reception area.
Aftercare
- Your pet needs to be kept warm. A coat will be needed in colder weather especially.
- Feeding a full meal is not recommended for 2 hours after a session.
- Your pet may be tired after the session, this is entirely normal but if your pet shows any signs of increased lameness or stiffness or they are overly tired please let us know.
- Do not give your pet further exercise on the day.