Aqua Treadmill Therapy

Aqua Treadmill Therapy can provide your pet with low impact exercises in a relatively weightless environment due to the buoyancy of water. Exercise done in the underwater treadmill can help dogs regain strength, improve range of motion, strengthen and build muscle, and reduce stiffness and swelling. With precise speed control, warm water temperatures and variable exercise intensity & water depth, we are able to provide a tailored program to suit each individual patient. We are able to progress your pet, as required, easily and gradually by increasing speed, duration or altering water depth. We have an underwater treadmill at both the Mosman Park and Willetton practices.

Benefits of Aqua Treadmill

• Weightless exercise - The buoyancy of water means your pet is able to exercise without having to carry their full body weight on stiff or painful joints, helping them to move more freely.

• Support for weak pets - If your pet is unable to stand for any length of time or for only a small period of time, the buoyancy of the water will support your pet in a more normal upright position, reducing pressure sores and applying gentle pressure all over their limbs to improve circulation.

• Muscle Building and Proprioception - The viscosity of water gives increased sensory feedback for pets with nerve problems and increases loading to improved muscle strength for post surgical patients

• Analgesia - if the water temperature is warm, it provides relaxation and mild analgesia, helping to reduce muscle spasm and improve range of movement.

• Custom programs for each individual patient - Water height and speed can be adjusted to the correct level for maximum benefit

• Normal walking pattern - allowing gait re-education, the use of each limb individually (rather than a swimming motion) and more controlled movements

• Safer - An even walking surface ensures no risk of injury from uneven surfaces below. Patients can be easily assisted when required.

• Less intimidating for dogs that are fearful of water

To increase the benefit of the Aqua Treadmill:

• Allow your pet to walk around for 5 minutes, or giving them a massage before they enter the water will help them ‘warm up’ the muscles they will be using.

• After your pet has been in the water, further walking and any stretching exercises advised should be performed. You may bring extra towels or rugs to keep your pet warm if there is a long journey home. Making sure they do not get cold once they get home will help them remain comfortable after their session.

• The evening of the hydrotherapy session, and the morning after initially, further massage and stretching can be performed to reduce any stiffness.

It is recommended that your pet has regular veterinary check ups whilst receiving hydrotherapy treatment to avoid any unforeseen problems.