Canine Hydrotherapy
What is Canine Hydrotherapy?
Canine hydrotherapy is a specialised form of therapeutic exercise carried out in warm water, either in a purpose-built pool or on an underwater treadmill. It is used to support recovery, improve mobility, relieve pain, and promote overall well-being in dogs of all ages and conditions.
The water’s natural buoyancy reduces pressure on joints and allows dogs to move freely without the strain they might experience on land, making it ideal for rehabilitation and low-impact fitness.
What Conditions can Hydrotherapy help?
Orthopaedic Conditions
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Hip and elbow dysplasia
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Cruciate ligament injuries
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Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease
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Fracture recovery
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Post-surgical rehabilitation (e.g. TPLO, THR)
Mental Health & Emotional Well-being
Hydrotherapy isn't just for physical conditions — it's also incredibly beneficial for dogs suffering from:
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Depression or anxiety
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Low confidence
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Canine cognitive dysfunction (doggy dementia)
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Stress or behavioural challenges
The calm, warm-water environment, one-on-one attention, and tailored sessions offer positive mental stimulation, increase endorphin levels, and often help dogs feel more relaxed, confident, and engaged.
Neurological Conditions
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Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
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Degenerative myelopathy
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Nerve injuries
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Vestibular disease
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Stroke recovery
Hydrotherapy helps these dogs re-learn or improve movement patterns in a safe, supportive environment.
Encrichment & Fitness
For healthy dogs, hydrotherapy can be a fun and enriching activity that supports:
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Overall fitness and stamina
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Balance and coordination
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Mental stimulation through new experiences
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A safe outlet for high-energy dogs or working breeds
Whether your dog needs post-surgical rehab, support with a long-term condition, or simply a new way to stay active and happy, hydrotherapy at York Canine Hydro can make a life-changing difference.
Obesity/Weight Management
Excess weight puts additional stress on joints and organs. Hydrotherapy provides a low-impact exercise option to help burn calories and build muscle without overloading the body.
Pricing
Initial assessment with first hydro session £48
Successive Hydrotherapy session (pool or treadmill) £38
Pet Insurance
Most pet insurance policies cover Hydrotherapy and as a member of the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists treatment at York Canine Hydro should be covered, but please check with your insurance provider first.
What to Expect at York Canine Hydro
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All dogs are showered before and after their hydrotherapy session to maintain pool hygiene.
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They are fitted with a correctly sized flotation jacket or harness, providing extra support and building their confidence in the water.
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Dogs are gently encouraged in their session using toys, food and positive verbal reinforcement. Favourite toys are quickly discovered, and we regularly refresh our toy selection. Owners are encouraged to bring their dog’s favorite treats.
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After swimming, each dog is gently towel dried, and a specialist dryer is available for those who tolerate it, ensuring they leave the centre as dry and comfortable as possible.
Our Hydrotherapy Facilities
At York Canine Hydro, we operate a larger-than-average, bespoke hydrotherapy pool, measuring 5.5m long, 3m wide, and 1.2m deep. The pool features:
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An easy-access entry and exit ramp
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A resting ramp within the pool for breaks during the session
The water is maintained at a comfortable 30°C, ideal for canine hydrotherapy. It is continuously filtered and sanitised with chlorine, ensuring a sterile and safe environment for your dog.
Water quality is scientifically tested throughout the day using a photometer, allowing us to carefully monitor and control sanitisation levels at all times.
Underwater Treadmill Therapy at
York Canine Hydro
At York Canine Hydro, we’re proud to offer one of the most advanced underwater treadmills available. Located in our dedicated treatment room, the treadmill features a spacious 2.1m tank, making it suitable for dogs of all breeds, shapes, and sizes.
Our facility is designed with your dog’s comfort in mind, offering easy-access entrance and exit ramps, as well as shower and drying stations to ensure a clean and stress-free experience after every session.
What is Underwater Treadmill Therapy?
Underwater treadmill therapy involves controlled exercise in a tank filled with warm water. The natural resistance and buoyancy of the water create a low-impact environment, which reduces stress on the joints while encouraging muscle use and proper movement.
Our experienced hydrotherapists work closely with each dog, providing hands-on support to improve gait patterning, balance, and mobility. This makes it a powerful and effective tool in both rehabilitation and fitness maintenance.