All About Dog Hydrotherapy with Sandy from Dogworx
The Happy Hounds team is impressed by the transformative potential of hydrotherapy in aiding dogs' recovery from injuries, enhancing their conditions amid joint-related challenges, and serving as an enriching experience. We consider ourselves fortunate to collaborate with Sandy from Dogworx Hydrotherapy, located in Upper Coomera, Gold Coast, who graciously shares her extensive experience and expertise in the realm of canine hydrotherapy.
Please tell us a little about yourself, and your background in the industry.
I originally started Dogworx in 2011 to provide behaviour coaching for pet dogs & their owners. This was predominantly behaviour consultations to help clients understand why their dogs behave in certain ways and give them the skills to resolve any issues.
What lead you to establish Dogworx Hydrotherapy and what do you love about what you do?
Over the years, I consistently saw dogs displaying signs of discomfort & pain that I thought may have been contributing to their behavioural issues. These were often very subtle, so their owners didn’t even realise that pain could be a factor! Recent research has shown that approximately 35% of young dogs and up to 80% of older dogs are living with pain from arthritis.
Having rescued several dogs with hip dysplasia and seeing the benefit they got from hydrotherapy, I was compelled to take the plunge and complete the canine hydrotherapy course through Canine Health Academy, then purchase my own underwater treadmill and set up Dogworx Hydrotherapy in early 2023!
I’m still in awe of what can be achieved by exercising dogs in the underwater treadmill and I love using my behaviour coaching skills & experience to help dogs have a positive experience and enjoy coming for their hydro sessions – especially the ones with issues that may preclude them from activities such as going to the beach.
What is hydrotherapy for dogs, and how does it work?
Hydrotherapy simply means ‘water therapy’. There are many benefits to exercising in water, but primarily it utilises the buoyancy of water to reduce the load on painful or healing joints.
The underwater treadmill enables us to precisely control the speed, exercise intensity, water depth and temperature, meaning exercise can be tailored to suit each individual dog.
Activity can be progressed from extremely gentle for older or frail dogs to a challenging workout, making it suitable for dogs of all shapes, sizes and ages.
What are the benefits of hydrotherapy for dogs?
The benefits of hydrotherapy include:
Earlier commencement of rehabilitation
Accelerated strengthening and growth of muscle
Improved weight bearing
Re-education of normal gait
Shorter rehabilitation time and faster return to function
Improved fitness while exercise is restricted
Prolonged mobility in weak or frail patients
What types of conditions or situations might lead to someone pursuing hydrotherapy for their dog?
Recovery from injury or surgery
‘Pre-hab’ to prepare for surgery
Relief from arthritis pain
Maintaining muscle mass & mobility
Weight loss
Fitness & conditioning
Enrichment & mental stimulation
What are some of your favourite success stories?
One of my recent favourites is Neville, a 14 year old Labrador who’s had a stroke. He was very weak and unsteady when he started coming for hydrotherapy, but is getting stronger every week and really enjoys his sessions.
I love seeing older, arthritic dogs become more mobile and active – it gives them a new lease on life!
Hydrotherapy isn’t only for dogs with injury or mobility issues, it also benefits dog’s who are extremely curious and active and who would benefit from a new enrichment activity. In particular, I see great benefits with dogs who are anxious or reactive. They learn to relax and enjoy a new experience in a safe and controlled environment, as well as getting all the other benefits of hydrotherapy.
Thanks to Sandy for sharing her knowledge and skills relating to Hydroptherapy! If you think your furry friend would benefit from Hydrotherapy, we encourage you to visit the Dogworx Website or contact Sandy directly on 0405774901 or by email at sandy@dogworx.com.au to find out more!
