A Game-Changer for Pets in Pain
When Bailey, a 12-year-old Labrador, first came to see me, his back legs were so stiff he could barely manage the three steps up to my clinic’s front door. His family was heartbroken to see their once-active companion struggling just to get around the house.
“We’ve tried medications,” his mom told me, “but they only help so much, and the side effects are tough on his stomach.”
This is when I often suggest an option that surprises many pet parents: hydrotherapy using an underwater treadmill. The transformation it can bring to arthritic pets like Bailey is sometimes nothing short of remarkable.
What is an Underwater Treadmill?
Think of it as a physical therapy pool specifically designed for pets. It’s a glass-enclosed treadmill that fills with warm water to a level appropriate for your pet’s size. The water provides buoyancy, taking pressure off painful joints while providing gentle resistance that strengthens muscles.
For a dog with arthritis, this means they can exercise, build strength, and improve mobility without the pain that would come from the same activity on land.
The Science Behind Water Healing
There’s real science behind why hydrotherapy works so well for arthritis:
- Buoyancy: When water reaches shoulder height, a dog bears only about 38% of their normal body weight. This dramatic reduction means much less pressure on painful joints.
- Warmth: The warm water (usually about 85-90°F) increases blood flow to stiff joints and relaxes tight muscles.
- Resistance: Water provides all-around resistance that helps build muscle without stressing joints.
- Controlled movement: The treadmill’s consistent pace encourages proper gait patterns.
After just four sessions, Bailey’s family noticed he was getting up more easily from his bed. After eight sessions, he was voluntarily going on longer walks. The joy in his eyes when he realized he could move with less pain was unmistakable.
Success Stories: Pets Moving Better
Bailey (Lab, 12): From struggling with stairs to walking around the block again
Sophie (Dachshund, 10): Regained ability to jump on furniture after 6 sessions
Max (German Shepherd, 8): Reduced pain medication by 50% after regular hydrotherapy
If you have a pet who’s struggling with arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other mobility issues, I’d love to discuss whether hydrotherapy might help. We can arrange for you to visit and see our underwater treadmill in action. Together, we can help your faithful friend enjoy movement with less pain.