Conditions & Treatments
Our therapies support dogs with a wide range of conditions.
Conditions we treat
- Orthopaedic issues (e.g. dysplasia, arthritis): improve joint mobility and muscle support
- Lameness: restore balanced movement through improved muscle patterning
- Degenerative conditions (e.g. DJD): slow progression and maintain quality of life
- Surgical recovery: quicker return to daily function with structured rehab
- Obesity: gentle cardio supports weight loss while protecting joints
- Neurological conditions: stimulate nerve pathways and prevent muscle loss during inactivity
General benefits
- Increased muscle strength and mass
- Reduced pain and inflammation
- Improved range of motion and flexibility
- Relaxation of muscle tension or spasms
- Decreased swelling
How we approach common conditions
| Condition | Approach | Frequency | Guidance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hip dysplasia | We use either the pool or UWT depending on the severity and if the dog likes swimming. Pool typically makes dogs more tired than LWT. | Once a week, every 1–2 weeks in winter, 2–4 weeks in summer | Lifelong condition, will need ongoing therapy to maintain muscle mass and slow down secondary osteoarthritis |
| Hip surgery | Pre-op, we use the UWT to build hind limbs and muscle to support weight post-op | Once a week | We aim to fully discharge after 6 months; this usually depends on the muscle gain and lifestyle |
| Post-op, we still use the UWT to continue building muscle but also to improve gait | Once / twice a week | ||
| FHNE surgery | Post-op we would use the UWT to build muscle and improve gait, but would also use the pool to improve extension | Once / twice a week | |
| Elbow dysplasia | We use either the pool or UWT depending on the severity and if the dog likes swimming | Once a week | Lifelong condition, will need ongoing therapy to maintain muscle mass and slow down secondary osteoarthritis |
| Shoulder conditions / injuries | Tendon or ligament conditions benefit from the UWT as we can reduce the risk of lateral rotation. Orthopaedic conditions like OCD respond well to controlled sessions in the pool | Initially once a week, then every 2 weeks. We continue to decrease frequency as we see improvement | Most shoulder injuries are caused by repetitive strain, and the right home exercise routines are key to successfully managing this condition |
| Cruciate (CCL) repairs / tears / ruptures
Luxating patella |
Pre-op (and conservative management): we use the treadmill to give a safe and stable treatment where we can improve hind limb muscle, gait and ultimately reduce discomfort | Initially once a week, then every 2 weeks. We continue to decrease frequency as we see improvement | Lifelong condition, will need ongoing therapy to maintain muscle mass and slow down secondary osteoarthritis |
| Spinal injuries | We use UWT to help proprioception and neuro stimulation
Some dogs benefit from managed controlled swims, with 2 therapists, to see how they use their limbs in a non-weight-bearing environment, especially tetraparetic / tetraplegic patients |
From 2 days after surgery, up to 3 times per week (wound is kept above water / dry)
Frequency reduces as we see improvement |
If proper gait and proprioception return we discharge. If this is a lifetime condition, some dogs require ongoing therapy to maintain movement and avoid muscle deficiencies |
| Limb fractures | We use either the pool or UWT with very high water levels to provide a partial weight-bearing environment to increase bone repair and to build muscle / improve gait | Initially once a week and building to 2 / 3 / 4-weekly intervals | Fractures are typically repaired in approx. 12 weeks. OA is likely in the future |
| Osteoarthritis (OA) | Older dogs in advanced stages: we use the pool to provide non-weight-bearing exercise and reduce pain
Younger dogs: we can use the treadmill because we have the opportunity to improve muscle and movement |
Weekly | Lifelong condition, will need ongoing therapy to maintain muscle mass and slow down secondary osteoarthritis |
UWT = underwater treadmill
Not sure whether therapy could help your dog?