The Spa

The hot spa is the most current design on the market. Made of stainless steel with a state of the art heater and filtration unit, the variable floor level enables us to accommodate every size of dog in a comfortable and uncompromising position.

A session in the spa will stimulate blood flow due to the expansion of the blood vessels and therefore providing increased oxygen to the tissues. It will also warm and soothe painful joints. The vigorous water movement within the hot spa also provides dogs with muscle toning and relaxation.

The spa can be a stand alone treatment or used in conjunction with the pool.

The Pool

Measuring 3.3m x 1.7m x 1.2m deep, fitted with 2 anti-swim jets and a stainless steel non slip ramp and resting platform. The variable jets can be altered to suit the individual need and condition of the dog being treated. The ambient water temperature is kept between 27 and 30 degrees Celsius and kept clean by an extensive filtration system. The chemical balance of the pool is constantly monitored so that optimum levels are maintained. In addition to the entry/exit ramps, we have a fully automated hoist to assist less able dogs which is certified to 200kg.

A session in the pool will gently exercise every muscle of the dog's body, helping them to rebuild/maintain cardiovascular fitness. Exercise in water allows earlier active motion in the post operative period without compromising patient safety, thus providing a shorter injury-to-recovery period.

The Water Walker

Constructed of stainless steel with three glazed viewing panels, the rear entry door doubles as a non slip entry/exit ramp. A computer controlled treadmill allows easy speed adjustment from extremely slow up to 8mph. Powerful pumps transfer the required amount of water into the treadmill to the required depth, the depth determined by the treatment being provided. Again the water temperature and cleanliness is maintained through extensive filtration and monitoring.

Dog's recovering from surgery or suffering from arthritis benefit by exercising in high water levels as their weight is supported through buoyancy. By decreasing the water level, the dog takes on more weight bearing exercise until normal fitness levels return. Additional buoyancy aids can increase limb movement and joint and muscle strength. For healthy dogs the Water Walker can be used to increase fitness and stamina.

Treatment Programmes

The initial appointment of each programme will be up to 1 hour long. Subsequent sessions will be up to ½ hour long. The initial appointment will be spent familiarising your dog to the centre and acclimatising your dog to the Spa, Pool or Water Walker depending on the type of treatment. We will go through registration and the emergency procedures.

All swimming times will be dependant on your dog's condition, age and fitness level. You will have ample opportunity to ask any questions or air any concerns that you may have. Your dog will be showered off prior to commencing treatment and again once the session is complete using our warm high pressure shower.

The following programmes are available to you at Southfields Hydrotherapy & Grooming.

Rehabilitation

An intensive programme designed for dogs post-surgery or injury to rebuild and strengthen muscles. This course can also be used for dogs pre-surgery to increase muscle mass. Typically, a dog will begin with twice weekly sessions for around 5 weeks and may, depending on their progress, move onto a maintenance course.

Maintenance

For dogs that have completed the Rehabilitation programme and need further treatment. A programme designed to continue building muscle mass and increase stamina. The programme will evolve as the dog improves. These sessions are usually once a week.

Senior/Arthritic

A programme designed to maintain mobility, fitness levels and body weight. Suitable for older dogs or those suffering from arthritis. This course usually begins with twice weekly sessions progressing to weekly and even monthly appointments.

Weight Management

Zero impact exercise to assist with weight control, avoiding the damage land based exercise may cause - at least weekly sessions are required. In conjunction with hydrotherapy, weight reduction is best achieved using a diet recommended by your Veterinary Surgeon.

Basic Fitness

Pool or Water Walker based exercise for owners who wish to build their dog's level of fitness. Appropriate for dogs with no current injury/illness. The frequency of these sessions is dependant on the level of fitness required.

The above programmes are a guideline only. Each programme will be tailored specifically to each dogs needs.