Swimming therapy for dogs is fast becoming a prescribed protocol for canine rehabilitation and strength building. Being in a pool provides an arena for non weight bearing exercise -where resistance in water is up to 20 X that of being in air.
Being in a pool benefits the body in these ways:
- Loosening tight muscles
- Increasing circulation, endurance, flexibility, range of motion, balance, coordination and muscle strength
- Decrease swelling
- Relaxation
- Confidence Building
These are some questions to ask about the therapist
- What training has therapist had
- Are they licensed or certified
- How many hours do they spend in the pool? Be sure the person who handles your dog has experience
- Are they trained in first aid, specifically first aid in the water
Some questions to ask about the pool
- What is the pool temperature(Pool temperature should be between 80 and 94 degrees)
- How often is the pool cleaned
- Is the business insured
Questions to ask yourself
- Do I feel comfortable letting my dog work with this therapist
- Do I feel comfortable asking questions-were they answered to my satisfaction
Finally , don’t be shy about asking that your dog be removed from the pool if you feel he or you is uncomfortable.