Dog Hydrotherapy in Singapore
What Is Animal Hydrotherapy?
Animal hydrotherapy is a safe, low-impact treatment for orthopaedic recovery. Warm, temperature-controlled water uses buoyancy, resistance and hydrostatic pressure to stimulate blood flow, engage the cardiovascular system, and improve muscle function, which ultimately increases mobility.
Which Dogs Are Suitable for Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a safe, low-impact therapy that benefits dogs across many life stages and health conditions. It supports recovery, mobility and overall well-being, especially for dogs who struggle with traditional exercise. Hydrotherapy may be suitable for:
Dogs Recovering from Injury or Surgery
Hydrotherapy helps dogs regain mobility after surgery or injury by encouraging early, gentle movement. It reduces pain, prevents muscle loss and supports faster recovery.
Dogs with Medical or Mobility Conditions
For dogs with arthritis, hip dysplasia or neurological issues, hydrotherapy promotes movement without placing additional stress on the joints, improving comfort and mobility.
Senior & Overweight Dogs
Older and overweight dogs benefit from hydrotherapy as it provides a safe, low-impact way to stay active. It helps maintain muscle tone and cardiovascular health while protecting vulnerable joints from stress.
Active, Working or High-Energy Dogs
Hydrotherapy also helps athletic and working dogs by conditioning muscles and aiding recovery from intense activity, all while reducing the risk of injury from high-impact exercise.
How Canine Hydrotherapy Supports Rehabilitation
Whether your dog is healing from surgery, managing arthritis, or simply struggling with mobility, hydrotherapy provides a safe and effective way to restore strength and comfort. Key benefits include:
Reduced Pain and Inflammation
Hydrotherapy leverages the warm water’s buoyancy to relieve joint pressure and ease pain from arthritis or surgery, while also reducing muscle spasms and preventing secondary injuries.
Improved Mobility and Flexibility
The warm water supports smoother joint movement and a greater range of motion, aiding dogs recovering from injury or managing age-related stiffness.
Stronger Muscles & Improved Endurance
The water’s resistance engages muscles safely, preventing atrophy and rebuilding strength after injury or surgery without overloading limbs.
Enhanced Cardiovascular Fitness
Gentle aquatic exercise improves heart and lung health while protecting the joints, making it suitable for structured conditioning.
Effective Weight Management
Hydrotherapy helps overweight or senior dogs burn calories safely, promoting weight loss without added strain on joints.
Quicker Recovery Post-Surgery
Water therapy enhances circulation and tissue healing, encouraging safe limb use and reducing immobility complications early in recovery.
Improved Mood and Mental Well-being
The calming environment of water therapy eases anxiety, lifts mood, and enhances the quality of life for dogs with chronic pain or mobility challenges.
Types of Hydrotherapy for Dogs
Our rehab vet clinic uses different techniques tailored to suit each dog’s condition, age and activity level, ensuring that therapy is safe, effective, and targeted to their recovery or fitness needs. Hydrotherapy services for dogs include:
Underwater Treadmill Therapy
Underwater treadmill therapy uses a submerged treadmill with adjustable water levels and speeds, allowing dogs to walk with minimal stress on their joints. This method is particularly helpful for overweight dogs, pets recovering from surgery, or those with arthritis, promoting safe mobility, muscle engagement, and weight management without straining healing limbs.
Aqua & Swim Therapy
Unlike casual swimming, Aqua & Swim Therapy involves controlled movements, including swimming, high-stepping and resistance against gentle currents. It is especially beneficial for athletic or working dogs, as well as those recovering from neuromuscular injuries, by helping build strength, coordination and endurance in a low-impact environment.
Passive Range of Motion (PROM), Massage & Resistance Exercises
Gentle joint stretching, massage and targeted resistance work help maintain flexibility, circulation and muscle tone in dogs with limited mobility. This approach is often used for senior pets, post-operative recovery or dogs with neurological impairments, helping to prevent stiffness, muscle loss and discomfort.
What to Expect
Hydrotherapy sessions are carefully structured to ensure your dog’s safety, comfort and recovery. From the first evaluation to tracking progress over time, each step is designed to provide targeted care and measurable results:
Initial Evaluation and Treatment Plan
Your dog’s consultation begins with a thorough assessment of their medical history, mobility, and current condition. This helps determine if hydrotherapy is suitable and allows the therapist to create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
The Hydrotherapy Session
During the session, your dog will be gently introduced to the water in a calm, supportive environment. The therapist will help your dog perform controlled movements that reduce joint strain while strengthening muscles. Each session is supervised to ensure correct technique and a positive, stress-free experience.
Monitoring Progress & Adjusting Therapy
As your pet's therapy progresses, we will closely monitor their strength, flexibility, and endurance. We regularly adjust the sessions to ensure steady improvement while keeping your pet comfortable throughout their recovery. Many dogs show positive changes within a few sessions, though the speed of improvement varies based on the condition and therapy frequency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How soon can hydrotherapy begin after surgery?
Hydrotherapy usually starts once your vet confirms the surgical site has healed sufficiently, often within 7 to 14 days. Beginning too early could risk injury, so it’s important to consult your vet or rehabilitation therapist to determine the best timing for your dog.
Can cats undergo hydrotherapy, too?
Hydrotherapy for cats is less common but may be used selectively under close supervision. Each cat’s suitability should be assessed individually to ensure safety and comfort.
Is hydrotherapy painful for dogs?
Hydrotherapy is gentle by design, often providing relief and comfort. Dogs are also closely monitored throughout each session to help them remain relaxed and safe.
How frequently should dogs undergo hydrotherapy sessions?
Sessions typically occur one to three times per week, depending on your dog’s condition and response to treatment. We regularly review progress to determine the appropriate duration and frequency of sessions.
Who performs the hydrotherapy rehabilitation programmes?
Hydrotherapy sessions are performed by certified canine rehabilitation therapists and veterinary professionals, ensuring each treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your pet’s needs.
Are there any risks associated with hydrotherapy for dogs?
Hydrotherapy is safe for most dogs. However, some pets may develop minor issues such as ear infections or balance difficulties due to water exposure. Always consult your vet or rehab therapist before starting therapy.
Can I do hydrotherapy for my dog at home?
It is not recommended to perform hydrotherapy for your dog at home. Professional supervision is crucial, as clinics provide specialised equipment and trained therapists to maintain safety and prevent injury.
Personalised Care
Holistic Approach
Safe & Clean Environment
