Frequently Asked Questions

Hydrotherapy is beneficial for a wide range of orthopaedic, neurological, and muscular conditions, as well as for general fitness and weight management. Common conditions hydrotherapy can help with:

• Arthritis and joint problems – Reduces stiffness, improves mobility, and relieves pain.
• Hip and elbow dysplasia – Supports joint function and muscle strength.
• Cruciate ligament injuries – Aids recovery pre- and post-surgery.
• Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) – Helps with spinal rehabilitation and mobility.
• Post-surgical recovery – Aids rehabilitation after orthopaedic or soft tissue surgery.
• Neurological conditions – Supports movement and coordination in conditions like degenerative myelopathy.
• Obesity and weight management – Provides a safe, low-impact way to burn calories.
• Muscle wastage and weakness – Builds strength and endurance in a controlled environment.

Hydrotherapy is tailored to each dog’s specific needs, ensuring they receive the right support at their own pace.

No, not all dogs have the ability to swim and this can to be a learning process. Confidence in the water is so important and we work very closely with you to achieve this. Certain medical conditions or injuries can be worsened by hydrotherapy. Your dog’s medical history will be taken from you and your vet before hydrotherapy sessions can commence.

Your vet will advise when hydrotherapy can commence. If your dog has had surgery you will usually need to wait until the stitches/staples have been removed. Following some surgeries you will need to wait until your 6-8 week check up to ensure everything is ok before veterinary consent is given.

Our pool is big enough to cope with larger breed dogs, with an extra wide ramp and big flat resting platform it offers plenty of space. There is also the option of an extra Hydrotherapists to help handle your dog safely.

Our pool is heated at a constant 30 degrees and sanitised with chlorine. We are trained in Pool Water Management and test our pool water three times a day to ensure sufficient disinfectant properties. There is always the possibility of hair from the previous dog especially if it was quite a hairy breed but this is soon filtered from the pool water.

Hydrotherapy is a low-impact exercise that helps dogs recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and improve mobility. The buoyancy of water reduces stress on joints, allowing dogs to move more freely without pain. It is particularly beneficial for:

• Post-surgical recovery – Aids rehabilitation and strengthens muscles.
• Arthritis and joint conditions – Reduces stiffness and improves mobility.
• Weight management – Provides exercise without excessive strain.
• Muscle building and strength – Ideal for fitness and conditioning.
• Pain relief and circulation – Warm water improves blood flow and eases discomfort.

Each hydrotherapy session is tailored to your dog’s individual needs, ensuring a safe, effective, and enjoyable experience.

Hydrotherapy is beneficial for many dogs, but it may not be suitable for every case. It is commonly used for rehabilitation, fitness, and pain relief, but some health conditions may require caution or veterinary approval before starting. Hydrotherapy is ideal for dogs who:

• Are recovering from injury or surgery.
• Have arthritis, joint issues, or mobility problems.
• Need low-impact exercise due to obesity or fitness concerns.
• Have neurological conditions affecting coordination and movement.
• Are athletic or working dogs needing muscle conditioning.
• Lack confidence in water and need a gentle introduction to swimming.

When hydrotherapy may not be suitable:

• Dogs with unhealed wounds or skin infections.
• Those with serious heart or respiratory conditions.
• Dogs with uncontrolled epilepsy.
• If a dog has a fear of water that causes extreme stress.

If you’re unsure whether hydrotherapy is right for your dog, we recommend consulting your vet or contacting us for advice. Each session is tailored to your dog’s needs, ensuring a safe and positive experience.

We believe the best place to help motivate your dog is from the outside the pool where you can be involved every step of the way. Our Hydrotherapists are there to ensure your dog receives the most from each and every session. How ever we do run regular workshops on ‘How to swim safely with you dog’. Your dog must be a competent swimmer. If you would like further information on our forthcoming workshops please contact us.

When treating any dog with hydrotherapy we are bound by the veterinary surgeons act 1966 and must seek veterinary consent for every dog we treat. Your vet will need to confirm that your dog is fit and healthy and provide any relevant medical history. This is important to ensure that the treatment plan is appropriate for your dog. We can contact your veterinary surgeon on your behalf or your vet can make a direct referral.

The number of hydrotherapy sessions your dog needs depends on their condition, fitness level, and treatment goals. Every dog is different, so we tailor our approach to their individual needs.

Typical session recommendations:

• Post-surgery rehabilitation – Usually 6–12 sessions, depending on recovery progress.
• Arthritis and joint issues – Ongoing sessions may be needed for pain management and mobility support.
• Fitness and weight management – Can vary, but weekly or bi-weekly sessions often work well.
• Confidence building and pleasure swims – Some dogs need only a few sessions to gain confidence, while others benefit from regular swims.

We regularly assess progress and adjust the plan as needed. Some dogs recover quickly, while others benefit from long-term hydrotherapy for continued strength and mobility. If you’re unsure how many sessions your dog will need, get in touch, and we’ll be happy to advise based on their condition and goals.

Simply contact us and we'll go over everything with you to get you started.

Your first appointment will be for 60 minutes. This allows time for you to arrive, have a chat and a cuppa and let your dog relax. We will talk you through everything before we do it and discuss what other options there are if you think there is something your dog might not be comfortable with.

The length of time in the pool will depend on many things such as fitness, ability, health issues and confidence so please don’t be disappointed if your dog’s first session in the pool is only for a few minutes.

Following your first session the Hydrotherapists will be able to advise you on a proposed treatment plan and how often you will need to attend. Your following appointments will be for 30 minutes and time spent in the pool will increase as your dog’s fitness and ability improve. We will never over swim a dog to fatigue and an average time spent in the pool will be approximately 20 minutes.

We allow plenty of time for your dog to investigate and adjust to their new surroundings at the pool. We will work with them and encourage them but it may take a few sessions for your dog to relax. Many dogs that don’t like water go on to be very confident swimmers much to the surprise of their owners.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable session for your dog, please bring the following:

Essentials

• A towel or two – Your dog will be wet after the session, so a towel is needed for drying off.
• Your dog’s harness or collar and lead – For safe handling before and after the session.
• Vet referral (if required) – If your vet has provided a referral, bring any relevant paperwork.

Optional but recommended

• Favourite treats or a toy – Helps to motivate and reassure your dog.
• A coat or blanket – Useful in colder months to keep your dog warm after drying.
• Any medication or medical history – If your dog is on medication, it’s helpful for our team to be aware.

We provide buoyancy aids and all necessary hydrotherapy equipment, so there’s no need to bring anything extra. If you have any questions before your session, feel free to contact us.

Yes! Owners are welcome to stay and watch their dog’s hydrotherapy session. Being nearby can provide comfort and reassurance, especially for dogs new to water. What to expect:

• You can observe from a designated area to see how your dog progresses.
• Our trained hydrotherapists handle all in-water support and guidance.
• If your dog is nervous, your presence can help them feel more at ease.

For safety reasons, owners aren’t permitted to enter the water, but you’re encouraged to cheer on and encourage your dog throughout the session.

If you have any concerns or questions, our team will be happy to discuss how we can make the experience as positive and stress-free as possible for both you and your dog.

Palliative treatment with hydrotherapy can assist with pain relief, relaxation and well- being. Time spent in a warm water environment can be beneficial for you and your dog. However there are times when hydrotherapy is not permitted during chemotherapy treatment. We will work with you and your vet to schedule appointments to fit in with your dog’s treatment.

If your dog has open wounds, stitches, or an active skin condition, hydrotherapy is not recommended until they have fully healed. Water can introduce bacteria into wounds, delaying healing and increasing the risk of infection.

Conditions that may require waiting before hydrotherapy:

• Recent surgery with unhealed incisions or stitches.
• Cuts, abrasions, or sores.
• Hot spots or skin infections.
• Allergic reactions or dermatitis.

Once your vet confirms your dog’s skin has fully healed, they can safely return to hydrotherapy. If you’re unsure whether your dog is ready, feel free to contact us for advice.

Yes, hydrotherapy is one of the safest and most effective treatments for dogs with arthritis and mobility issues. The buoyancy of water reduces pressure on joints, allowing dogs to move more freely without the impact of land-based exercise.

Benefits of hydrotherapy for arthritis and mobility issues:

• Reduces pain & stiffness – Warm water helps ease joint discomfort.
• Supports joint mobility – Improves flexibility and range of motion.
• Strengthens muscles – Helps maintain muscle mass to support weak or arthritic joints.
• Low-impact exercise – Allows movement without strain, making it ideal for senior dogs.

Each session is tailored to your dog’s needs, ensuring gentle, controlled movements that provide relief and long-term benefits. If you’re unsure whether hydrotherapy is right for your dog, we recommend consulting your vet or contacting us for advice.

Hydrotherapy is a low-risk, non-invasive treatment, but like any form of exercise, it may not be suitable for every dog. Our trained hydrotherapists carefully assess each dog’s needs to ensure sessions are safe, effective, and beneficial.

Possible side effects or considerations:

• Muscle fatigue – Some dogs may experience mild soreness after their first few sessions, similar to starting a new exercise routine.
• Increased thirst – Swimming is a workout! Your dog may drink more water after a session.
• Ear infections (rare) – If a dog is prone to ear infections, keeping ears dry and clean after sessions can help prevent issues.
• Skin irritation (very rare) – Some dogs with sensitive skin may experience mild irritation from chlorinated or treated water.

When hydrotherapy may not be suitable:

• Dogs with open wounds, stitches, or skin infections.
• Serious heart or respiratory conditions that affect breathing.
• Uncontrolled epilepsy, as sudden movements in water can be risky.

Our team assesses every dog individually to ensure hydrotherapy is a safe and positive experience. If you have any concerns, feel free to speak to us before booking a session.

You can find use at:
Gap Farm
Moorhouse Lane
Moorhouse
Doncaster
DN6 7HA

Visit our contact page for more information.

Not all insurance policies cover hydrotherapy so you will need to call your insurer and ask for clarification of your policy. All our hydrotherapy sessions must be paid for at the time and we do not make any direct claims with any insurance companies.

Yes! If you book a course of XX sessions, you'll get the Xth free.

A standard session is £36. An initial cosultation costs £XX.