Hydrotherapy for dogs now offered at BBVSH!
The doctors and staff at BBVSH are very excited to announce that our Animal Rehabilitation Services have expanded!
With the recent addition of our Water Treadmill, we are now able to offer on-site hydrotherapy sessions under the direct supervision of our Animal Rehabilitation Team.
During the recovery from surgery or traumatic injury, a full range of limb motion may not always be possible on land. The careful use of hydrotherapy after surgery or injury can be extremely beneficial for dogs and cats increasing their chance of a successful return to normal fitness.
Hydrotherapy acts by encouraging a full range of joint motion in reduced weight bearing conditions, thus improving muscle tone and promoting tissue repair. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on the joints and this creates a much safer environment for recovery after surgery/injury without imposing undue stress on damaged tissues.
Since the installation of the treadmill we have had a variety of patients experiencing the wonderful benefits of hydrotherapy. Patients that have had a cruciate ligament repair, spinal decompression surgery or even those that suffer from tendinitis have enjoyed not only the soothing effects of the warm water, but the ability to move without weight bearing heavily on hard ground.
Here are a few photographs of some of our lovely patients.
GuDong recently underwent spinal decompression surgery with BBVSH Neurologist Dr. Gordon and is now enjoying the non-weight bearing exercise offered with hydrotherapy.
GuDong being towelled off after his hydrotherapy session.
BBVSH Physiotherapist Glenn and his buddy GuDong
Nala, who suffers from tendinitis, enjoys the benefits of the water buoyancy during her session.
We couldn’t stop Trooper from smiling the whole time he was in the water treadmill. Such a happy boy!
Great job Nala!
Olive the Boston Terrier thought the peanut butter Kong was a fantastic motivational treat!
The design of the water treadmill allows our rehabilitation team to monitor the progress of patients from all angles.
Our rehabilitation team is able to adjust the height of the water specific to the needs of each patient.
Kali is a natural in the water!
Similar to regular treadmills, we can adjust the incline to offer a greater challenge for dogs like Kali when they’re ready.
