Benefits
Benefits of this type of conditioning include muscle strengthening, improved flexibility, improved cardiovascular fitness, weight loss, early return to exercise post surgically and it is fun!

It is frequently observed that an animal not using a limb on land will use it in the water.  When the patient walks on the hydro-treadmill, they tend to move their limbs using an exaggerated range of motion, providing additional therapeutic benefits.  An important additional benefit of this treatment method versus swimming is that the variables (speed, resistance, and depth) can be controlled which allows for a consistently progressive therapy plan.  It also allows the therapists to introduce the patient to the water in a slow, controlled manner.   This alleviates fear which helps the patient relax, and consequently improves the results of the therapy session.

Finally, the hydro-treadmill allows us to combine other rehabilitation therapies (ie passive range of motion, massage, chiropractic) with the therapeutic benefits of the water.   Our hydro-treadmill is a freestanding tank that draws water from our salt water pool.  The water is heated to 88 degrees Fahrenheit.

Hydrotherapy and Weight Management
A recent study showed that dogs kept lean lived longer and had fewer medical problems.  Similar studies in people and lab animals have similar findings.  It seems so simple however love for our pets sometimes leads to excessive treats, table food and uncontrolled feeding. 

Weight control diets are of benefit, however, when used as the sole means of weight control, results often are often not rewarding.  Controlled exercise along with diet are a much more promising and proven way of weight management.  Unfortunately for some of our obese pets, exercise is not possible due to the effects of deconditioning and/or other medical issues. Controlled exercise programs in water using the underwater treadmill and or swimming pool can be the solution in these situations.

The natural buoyancy of water decreases the weight bearing demand (unloading) on the obese patient's bones and joints making movement easier.  Exercise in this type of controlled environment will aide in weight loss, muscle strengthening and improved cardiovascular conditioning. 

Weight Management Program

• Weight management begins with a physical exam to rule out any metabolic causes for obesity. 
• Assign the Body Condition Score, weigh and perform body measurements.
• Veterinary recommended Weight Loss Diet
• Scheduled monthy weight checks, every other month this weight check will be scheduled with the doctor to reevaluatate the program and assess progress.
• Exercise in a safe and moderate environment to increase metabolism, strengthen muscles and improve the cardiovascular system. The underwater treadmill is the perfect environment for many dogs to begin their exercise program.