Pool

Why use the hydrotherapy pool?

The pool allows for zero gravity, low impact exercise, resulting in a wider range of motion. We provide a safe and fun atmosphere for all types of dogs to exercise in the weightlessness of water to become healthier, stronger, happier dogs.

Aquatic therapy is especially beneficial for dogs that suffer from:

Arthritic pain and stiffness
Poor circulation
Limited join mobility, sprains or breaks
Hip and elbow displaysia
Post operative challenges
Emotional anxiety
Overweight
Muscle Loss

What to expect?

Your initial appointment is approximately 60 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 pool.

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 pool area before moving to the pool. This may mean that they don’t spend long in the pool 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. We work at a pace to ensure that your pet in relaxed.
Some dogs require a few sessions before they find their confidence and start to enjoy their swims whist others are instant water babies. Our hydrotherapist will be in the water with your dog at all times to encourage and support and will and work to their pace.

Do I get in the water?

No you don’t get in the water yourself. The trained hydrotherapist will be with your dog at all times.

Do I stay with my pet?

You are welcome to stay with your pet
There is a viewing window as well as an option to remain in the pool room.
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 will be tired after the session but over time you will notice increased . 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.

Here at the Springfield Therapy Barn we offer:

Fun Swims

Controlled swimming helps to improve cardiovascular fitness, stamina and overall general health. We aim to create a fun and relaxed environment, with our fully trained Hydrotherapist’s.

Confidence Swims

It is true most dogs can swim but not all dogs are natural swimmers. We’ll teach your dog correct form and confidence in a controlled environment. If your dog has never been in the water or is fearful, we will patiently introduce them to the pool with the emphasis on feeling safe and secure.

Therapy Sessions

Therapy sessions are designed to target specific problem areas such as: Arthritis, spinal stenosis, degenerative disease, dysplasia, and many more. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints while the movement, massage and gentle stretching relieves pain and increases mobility. We will closely monitor your dog’s progress, rebuilding muscle tone and stamina. Therapy sessions require a veterinary referral.