Hydrotherapy for dog expensive, but it might help
Q: My dog just had surgery to correct a cruciate ligament tear in her right knee. The surgeon recommended I go to another specialist for rehabilitation on an underwater treadmill. How does that work? Is it worth it?
A: Hydrotherapy is a form of canine physical therapy used in the rehabilitation of dogs with neuromuscular or orthopedic issues. This increasingly common form of therapy is now considered the gold standard for dogs after undergoing orthopedic surgery or when other musculoskeletal issues arise.
Hydrotherapy is a general term for any physical therapy that involves exercising in water. Swimming in the ocean, for example, can be considered a form of hydrotherapy. In veterinary terms, however, hydrotherapy typically involves the use of underwater treadmills, employing the natural resistance and buoyancy of water to build strength and functionality.
These large, rectangular, elevated pools are like the typical treadmill you might find at the gym. They’re usually encased in a giant transparent tank so that dogs’ underwater movements can be observed. The level of water can be adjusted, as can the speed of the treadmill. Finally, jets of water can be directed towards the patient to increase and decrease resistance to meet the needs of each patient.
Most of these treadmills are available only at specialty centers, where they can be utilized for the more severely compromised patients who come their way (always under a specialist’s supervision).
Dogs who require underwater treadmill hydrotherapy will typically be exercised on the equipment more than once a week for a number of weeks. The regimen prescribed depends on the patient’s specific issue and varies according to the individual’s progress.
Hydrotherapy offers dogs a wide variety of benefits. Generally speaking, these include an increased range of motion of the joints, strengthening of muscles, reduction of pain and improvement of stamina. Plus, the temperature controlled water feels good to them and, of course, water itself has healing properties.
So is it worth it?
It all depends on what you can afford. But if you’ve spent big bucks on a specialized surgery, you might just be able to spend a little more to ensure the success of the procedure and a swift return to normal function.
Luckily, pet health insurance plans typically cover the cost of rehabilitation services. I certainly hope you’ve invested in one! If not, perhaps now is the time to consider insurance to help pay for any future healthcare crises.