Hydrotherapy
We are delighted to announce that our new hydrotherapy pool is now open at our Heywood branch, offering a safe, supportive and effective form of rehabilitation and exercise for dogs. Hydrotherapy is a complimentary therapy, used alongside veterinary care to help improve mobility, build strength, aid recovery and support long term wellbeing.
Our purpose-built facility includes a heated, filtered pool, designed specifically for canine hydrotherapy. All sessions are run by trained hydrotherapists working closely with the veterinary team to ensure every dog receives tailored care.
What is canine hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy uses the natural properties of warm water – buoyancy, resistance and hydrostatic pressure – to allow dogs to exercise in a low impact environment. The water supports their body weight, reducing strain on joints and enabling controlled, pain reduced movement that may not be possible on land. It is a gentle but effective therapy, helping dogs gain confidence, rebuild muscle and move more comfortably during recovery or long-term management of chronic conditions.
Benefits of hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy can help to:
- Improve mobility and joint flexibility
- Build and maintain muscle mass
- Reduce pain and stiffness
- Improve circulation and tissue healing
- Aid recovery after surgery or injury
- Support weight management
- Increase cardiovascular fitness
- Improve quality of life
Because sessions are individually tailored, we can work gently with elderly, nervous or mobility restricted dogs while also providing more active programs for young, athletic or working dogs.
Conditions that may benefit from hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is commonly recommended for a range of orthopaedic, neurological and age-related conditions, including:
- Arthritis and degenerative joint disease
- Hip or elbow dysplasia
- Cruciate ligament injuries (pre and post surgery)
- Patella luxation
- Muscle weakness or loss of fitness
- Obesity
- General stiffness or reduced mobility in elderly dogs
What to expect
A referral must be made by a vet before hydrotherapy can begin. Clients from external practices are accepted. At the first session, we will conduct a thorough assessment of your dog and discuss an initial treatment plan. Collars and leads will be removed, and your dog will be fitted with a harness or jacket before a short acclimatisation swim in the pool. This session may take up to an hour, subsequent sessions will last 30 minutes. There will be at least one trained hydrotherapist in the pool with your dog at all times (excluding fun swims). Hydrotherapy will be the main form of exercise for your dog on the day of their session so please do not exercise them before their session but allow them the opportunity to go to the toilet before the session. Do not feed your dog for 2-3 hours before their hydrotherapy session.
At the end of the session, the hydrotherapist will discuss progress and any amendments to your dog’s individual plan. You will then have the opportunity to shower your dog, assistance can be provided if required. Please bring a towel to dry them afterwards.
Hydrotherapy is often covered by insurance as a complimentary therapy. However, please do check your policy with your insurance provider.
Wendy Lane Hydrotherapy Centre is located at:
OL10 4QQ
01706 643617 option 3.