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Dog Pools for canine hydrotherapy come in many forms
Well, brace yourself, there are so many types of hydrotherapy for dogs available than ever imagined! Everyone has different needs and styles, and while some work for others, some just don’t work at all. The type of hydrotherapy program for your dog will be determined by:
- the assessment
- the findings
- the size of the animal
- the equipment available
- and what your goals are
For very small animals, there are a number of different hydrotherapy methods which can be used. Some will be more effective than others, and some may not really work at all. The following is a list of what these might entail:
- sink
- bathtub
- whirlpool
- children’s wading pool
- beach
- dam
- lake
- river
- above-ground or in-ground human swimming pools
- purpose-built dog pools
- underwater treadmills
For larger animals there is a smaller selection to choose from:
- swimming in dog hydrotherapy pools
- beaches
- dams
- rivers
- underwater treadmills
Every dog will require a different form of hydrotherapy treatment. Heated dog pools are of course preferred. 
However you choose to swim your dog, make sure they are wearing a life preserver if they are swimming for the first time or are fearful of the water. If your dog has just undergone surgery, it is best to go through a certified hydro-therapist and veterinarian for their canine rehabilitation program. There is lots to explore in this world of water therapy…
How do I know if my dog is going to recover fully from the cruciate surgery or injury by doing exercises or hydrotherapy? It would be nice to know. I bought your book and love the information it gives but I am worried about my dog.
Jerry, if you follow the protocol and are very diligent with not allowing your dog off leash and jumping or running, you should be okay. A key factor is making sure you stick to a program to rehab your dog and get it in a pool if available. Keep the dog’s weight down as that will help with the recovery on the joints and prevent them from tearing the other cruciate. Most dogs recover fully but as with any injury to a joint, arthritis is a condition that will set in later on in life. There are many things you can do to help. I wish you all the best and please keep me informed as to your progress!