Why Choose Jarvis Veterinary Physiotherapy for Your Dog?

 

At Jarvis Vet Physio and Canine Hydro, we understand that every dog is unique. With different lifestyles, environments, and personalities, each dog deserves care that is tailored to their individual needs. Whether your dog is a competitive athlete, a hardworking working dog, a loyal pet in need of some extra attention, or in the process of recovering from injury or surgery, we provide physiotherapy that fits their specific circumstances.

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We believe that no two dogs are the same, and that’s why our approach to canine physiotherapy is completely personalised. We take the time to get to know your dog, considering their breed, age, activity level, and overall health to create a treatment plan that works best for them.

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Canine Hydrotherapy, what is it?

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Canine hydrotherapy is rehabilitation that uses controlled exercise in water to support recovery, manage long‑term conditions, improve fitness, and enhance overall wellbeing. Hydrotherapy is a low‑impact, partially weight‑bearing therapy, delivered either in a heated swimming pool or via an underwater treadmill (UWTM). At Jarvis Veterinary Physiotherapy and Canine Hydrotherapy, we use an underwater treadmill to provide safe, controlled and effective rehabilitation tailored to each dog’s individual needs.

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Hydrotherapy utilises the unique properties of water - buoyancy, resistance, hydrostatic pressure and warmth - to reduce stress on joints, encourage a greater range of movement, and allow dogs to move more comfortably than they often can on land. All sessions are carried out under the supervision of a level 4 qualified canine hydrotherapist and are adapted to the individual dog.

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Why is Hydrotherapy Important for Your Dog?

 

The primary aim of hydrotherapy is to reduce pain, ease discomfort, and improve both physical and mental wellbeing. It plays a valuable role in rehabilitation following surgery or injury, as well as in the long‑term management of chronic and neurological conditions.

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Hydrotherapy can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions, including:

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• Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease

• Hip Dysplasia

• Elbow Dysplasia

• Cruciate Ligament Injury

• Luxating Patella

• Shoulder OCD

• Forelimb and Hindlimb Lameness

• Musculoskeletal Disorders

• IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease)

• Wobblers Disease

• Spinal Conditions and Paralysis

• Post‑Operative Rehabilitation

• Weight Management

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However, this list is not exhaustive. We work with all dogs, from those recovering from surgeries or managing chronic pain to healthy dogs, who need preventive care to maintain their mobility and strength.

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Physiological Benefits

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Improved Cardiovascular Fitness
Underwater treadmill work are highly cardiovascular. Just one minute on the treadmill belt can be equivalent to walking one mile, making hydrotherapy an efficient way to improve heart and lung fitness.

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Increased Muscle Strength, Tone and Endurance
Water resistance strengthens muscles without placing excessive strain on joints. This is particularly beneficial for post‑operative patients and neurological dogs who may lack muscle tone.

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Enhanced Circulation
Warm water and active movement increase blood flow, delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles and tissues that need support and promoting healing.

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Increased Range of Motion
Water allows joints to move more freely. Skilled handling and specific techniques encourage correct limb placement and extension, which is especially helpful in conditions such as hip dysplasia where dogs may resist movement on land.

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Improved Proprioception (body awareness)
Hydrostatic pressure combined with tactile stimulation from the therapist enhances neurological feedback, helping dogs relearn coordinated movement.

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