Hydrotherapy can be used in the treatment of many commonly occurring problems in dogs. It is particularly useful for arthritis, orthopaedic conditions and muscle and ligament problems. It is also very helpful for overweight dogs, and for general fitness training. How does it work? Hydrotherapy uses the buoyancy of water to reduce load on weight bearing joints, which allows easier movement and exercise. With our warm water this effect is increased, because heat initiates an expansion of surface blood vessels and increases skin temperature, which promotes relaxation of muscles, and reduction in pain and muscle spasm. This eases stiffness allowing a greater range of movement.
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