Caroline, what type of injury or conditions benefit most from hydrotherapy? Are there any cases where it is not recommended?

Hydrotherapy is one of the most adaptable therapy in canine rehabilitation and is based on the individual case.

We have different approaches dependent on the condition and whether it is pre-rehabilitation, post-operative or conservative management.

Pre-rehabilitation includes building muscle before an orthopaedic surgery to reduce recovery time.

For orthopaedic conditions and post-surgical recovery, hydrotherapy is very effective because buoyancy reduces load on healing tissues.

Most common conditions include cruciate ligaments injuries, hip and elbow dysplasia, patella relaxation, fracture recovery once the bone is stabilised and is confirmed, and osteoarthritis management.

For these cases, low impact movement restores strength, improves joint mobility and reduces compensatory gait patterns.

Caroline, how would you manage pain or anxiety in dogs who may be nervous about going into the