In a rehabilitation program for one's dog, aquatic therapy which provides the buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, resistance and viscosity as well as the surface tension, are all important. This all falls under basic principles of properties of water and how it impacts the body. When a body is immersed in water, it creates an upward thrusting on it, thus decreasing the apparent weight of it when immersed in it. The rehabilitation of the dog is aided by the buoyancy which minimizes the amount of weight placed on the muscles and joints, and decreases the amount of pain.

For dogs with arthritis, aquatic therapy is most beneficial in treating them because the buoyancy factors of water unload the joints.  For sore and swollen joints, hydrostatic pressure offers an enhanced environment to work in. This constant pressure to the body or limbs aids in reducing the swelling and alleviating the gathering of blood and bodily fluids.

Pain is greatly reduced during exercise from hydrostatic pressure. This pressure creates stimuli to the sensory receptors of the skin, causing a decrease in hypersensitivity. This allows the dog to perform more movements with less pain, by reducing their perception of pain.

Fluid flow resistance or viscosity, is greater in water than in air. Canine muscles and cardiovascular fitness is increased and strengthened from the resistance that water provides. Sensory awareness is increased from viscosity and unstable joints are supported and stabilized. A paraparesis canine that is supported from the buoyancy and viscosity of water, may choose to walk in water although they won't on land.

Movement and exercise are performed with more ease with surface tension, just beneath the water surface than at or on the surface, if a dog is extremely weak.

While canine hydrotherapy is known for its benefits, the dog's psychological well-being and reduction in pain is profound. Their muscle strength and endurance, cardio respiratory endurance and agility is vastly improved. All of this in addition to increasing their range of motion.

In hydrotherapy for dogs the water provides a direct effect on the heart rate and oxygen uptake. The temperature of the water and leg exercise further increases the heart rate. The heart rate and oxygen uptake were greater performing the exercises in water than performing the same exercises on land. When aerobic exercise is utilized in the canine rehabilitation process, it also aids in weight reduction and toning.

Dog water therapy is by far the best in minimizing joint effusion and obtaining superior functional improvement. Dogs exercising on land will achieve greater maximum muscle performance. To allow the muscles to operate in a more functional fashion, walking in water is highly rated. To ensure there is no damage or inflammation to the soft tissues, performing these exercises in dog hydrotherapy pools or dog underwater treadmills where forces are decreased, is best.

Dog pools and dog underwater treadmills aid in reducing knee pain and joint effusion. This is helpful in facilitating the recovery of lower-extremity function in dogs. Canine rehabilitation through aquatic exercises may be used as a transition to land based exercises in post surgery or post injury rehabilitation.

The heated water provides many physiological benefits in aquatic therapy for dogs. There is increased joint flexibility along with decreased joint pain. Dogs get improved circulation to their muscles and become more functional on a daily basis. Dogs with thicker coats can tolerate cooler temperatures in water; however, the normal temperature range is between 26 degrees C and 28 degrees C.

There are a variety of methods of hydrotherapy for dogs. Some of the following can be found in most places: whirlpools, underwater treadmills, and dog pools. If one is going to venture into a lake or river for aquatic therapy, caution should be adhered to. Underwater currents can be hazardous and so can harmful bacteria if there is a recent incision. A dog life jacket should be worn for safety.

The following dog health issues have been helped with hydrotherapy:

Knee Operations

Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy and Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair

Hip replacements

Hip Dysplasia

Joint inflammation

Fractures or Weakened Spine

Deteriorating joints

Malfunctioning of the Nervous System

Cognitive Impairment

Amputation of a limb

Amongst all of the benefits from hydrotherapy for dogs, it also includes improving the dog's balance, confidence, energy level and co-ordination. When considering hydrotherapy for dogs the potential benefits are vast. Any dog that has undergone surgery, their recovery time is significantly reduced. To have minimal discomfort and to restore the physical condition aquatic therapy is the choice.

Hydrotherapy is very calming for dogs. A dog's stress level is greatly reduced and it helps to stimulate numerous metabolic functions. The lymphatic system is drained more efficiently and the immune system is supported. Hydrotherapy for dogs regulates their whole system, including the electrolytes. It removes toxins and waste material while improving their skin and coat.

Veterinarians all over the world are utilizing and noticing the huge benefits of canine hydrotherapy.  The massive amount of benefits make it undeniable.

Helga Schmitt, this article's author,  has been fervently studying and researching dog health, physiotherapy and rehabilitation hands on for 20 years. She is a Chartered Herbalist, Holistic Nutritionist, and holds a Certificate in Homeopathy. She offers startling informationabout healthy choices. For your Free Dog Health Report and to read more on Hydrotherapy for Dogs, go to www.treatment-for-dogs.com.

Debbie Foster is the owner of Pet Beds Unlimited and an avid animal lover. You’ll find a wide selection of quality pet beds, dog crates, dog carriers, dog pens, cat beds, cat carriers, small dog beds, large dog beds, pet strollers and more at http://petbedsunlimited.com.