Pre and Post Treatment Information

Prior to Hydrotherapy, Myotherapy and Physiotherapy Treatment

Feeding and Hydration

Ensure your dog has not eaten within two hours before their session. This precaution reduces the risk of nausea or discomfort during physical activity in the water - It’s fine for your dog to drink fresh water leading up to their appointment.

Physical Activity Before the Session

Refrain from taking your dog on a long walk or engaging them in any vigorous exercise before the session. Light activity, such as a brief walk to the toilet area, is sufficient to prepare your dog without tiring them out.

Toileting Needs

Ensure your dog has relieved themselves before the session. The centre provides a designated paddock for toileting purposes - arrive early to allow time for this step and help your dog feel comfortable before their appointment.

Keeping Warm and Comfortable

In colder weather, bring a towelling coat or fleece for your dog to wear after their session. If you don’t have a suitable coat, the centre offers various options for you to view, and we also offer made to measure services.

Personalising the Session

If your dog has dietary restrictions or favourite treats, as well as any specific floating toys or items, bring them along. These can be used to encourage or reward your dog during the session. The centre also has a selection of toys and treats to choose from.

Important Health and Safety Considerations

Your dog will not be allowed to participate in treatment under the following circumstances:

  • Open wounds or infections: Any untreated skin conditions or visible injuries must heal before treatment.
  • External fixators: Dogs with external fixation devices cannot enter the pool or treadmill due to safety concerns.
  • Respiratory or advanced cardiac issues: Dogs experiencing breathing difficulties or severe heart conditions are not permitted for hydrotherapy.
  • Diarrhoea or vomiting: Any gastrointestinal distress should be fully resolved before attending.
  • Contagious skin conditions: These include fungal infections like ringworm or other transmissible issues.
  • Recent flea or worm treatments: A minimum of 72 hours must pass after applying topical flea or worm treatments before your dog can participate. The chemicals may compromise water quality or irritate your dog’s skin during the session.

Additional Tips for a Smooth Session

  • Arrival time: Arrive 10–15 minutes early to allow your dog to acclimate to the environment and use the toilet facilities.
  • Communicate special needs: Inform the therapists of any specific preferences, health concerns, or behavioural quirks your dog may have.
  • Post-treatment care: Prepare for your dog to rest after the session, as hydrotherapy can be physically tiring even if enjoyable.

After the Hydrotherapy Session

Toileting

Use the enclosed paddock provided by the centre to toilet your dog before heading home. This ensures comfort for the journey.

Exercise Recommendations

Avoid long walks or vigorous exercise for at least 24 hours post-session. Short, gentle walks for toileting purposes are fine and can help your dog stretch their muscles and prevent stiffness.

Feeding Guidelines

Wait at least 2 hours after the session before offering your dog food.
Fresh water should always be available, but avoid allowing them to drink excessively, as this may lead to discomfort.

Keeping Your Dog Comfortable

Ensure your dog is kept warm and away from draughts. If you used a towelling coat or fleece post-session, keep it on until your dog is fully dry and warm.

Normal Post-Treatment Behaviour

Each dog responds differently to hydrotherapy. Here’s what to expect:

  • Sleep: It’s normal for your dog to sleep deeply for an extended period after a session. If your dog hasn’t moved for a few hours, gently wake them to encourage a stretch and light movement to prevent stiffness.
  • Increased Energy: Some dogs may seem very lively or playful after treatment, especially if the therapy relieved soreness or pain. This is a positive sign but ensure they don’t overexert themselves.
  • Thirst and Urination: Dogs often drink more water post-session due to the physical effort and temperature regulation, but this is normal. Increased urination is also common as hydrostatic pressure encourages fluid movement in the body.
  • Digestive Upset (Uncommon): About 1 in 10 dogs may experience mild vomiting or loose stools after hydrotherapy. To reduce this risk, avoid feeding your dog too soon after their session. Monitor them and ensure they stay hydrated.
  • Changes in Behaviour: Post-treatment behaviours can vary - Your dog may seem more interactive, playful, or less anxious if they feel better after the session, or they may appear grumpy or withdrawn.

Additional Tips for Monitoring Recovery

Allow your dog to rest in a quiet, comfortable area after the session.

Pay attention to their body language. Stiffness or discomfort should ease within 24–48 hours.

Maintain a log of any unusual behaviours, hydration levels, or digestion issues to discuss with the therapists or your vet if needed.


General Post-Treatment Care Instructions

Follow Veterinary and Therapist Instructions

Always prioritise the recommendations provided by your vet regarding your dog’s post-treatment care. Snowy’s therapists’ advice complements your vet’s instructions, especially regarding rest days, exercise limitations, and monitoring for improvement.

Exercise Guidelines

Try to keep your dog on a lead for at least 4 days post-treatment. This restriction minimises strain and controls any inflammatory response caused by the therapy.
Allow your dog to walk slowly and scent during outings. This activity supports muscle rehabilitation, stimulates the nervous system, and promotes healing.

Rest and Recovery

Adhere to the number of rest days suggested by your vet or Snowy’s therapists. These are tailored to your dog’s specific condition or surgery.
Avoid crate rest: Crate confinement can interfere with the new biomechanical movement patterns developed during therapy. Instead, allow your dog free but controlled movement in a safe, quiet space.
Exception: Follow your vet’s advice if crate rest is explicitly required for certain post-surgical recoveries or conditions.

Sporting Activities

If your dog participates in sporting activities, consult with Snowy’s therapists before resuming. They can guide you on how to safely reintroduce activity based on your dog’s recovery progress.

Observing and Reporting Changes

Regularly observe your dog’s movement patterns, energy levels, and any signs of discomfort or improvement. Lameness may persist longer than other symptoms, but gradual changes are important indicators of the therapy’s success.
Share your observations with Snowy’s therapists or your vet to adjust the treatment plan as needed.