Your first visit to the centre will be a land-based assessment by one of our physiotherapists. They will carry out a full assessment of your pet. They will carry out both a static and dynamic assessment looking at posture, muscle mass and strength and also their overall movement. At Aqua Dog we can utilize our stance analysis mat to further give us insight into your pet’s overall condition.

There will also be a discussion with you about your animal’s health, history and daily routine. Following on from this assessment, our therapist will give you some exercises to carry out at home if applicable and also outline a treatment plan for you that may include hydrotherapy.

There may be some physiotherapy treatment given on the initial consult.

Veterinary Physiotherapy intervention has become a key tool in the rehabilitation of the canine species. It involves the use of static and dynamic assessments and treatment techniques such as: massage, stretching, ROM, electro therapy application (Class 3B laser, PEMFT and TENs) and rehabilitative exercise programme planning in order to prevent/manage a range of conditions. Veterinary Physiotherapy aims to promote healing after surgery/injury and ease pre-existing conditions which may present signs of pain, muscle imbalance and altered movement.

Laser is a coherent and monochromatic light source which penetrates the skin. It is absorbed by cells in order to increase cell metabolism further causing an up regulation of cell function which stimulates a natural phase of repair resorting normal cellular function. Laser increases levels of endorphins which are neurotransmitters that increase feelings of pleasure and well being. They have also been found to reduce pain and discomfort levels.

Laser can be beneficial for conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis
• Muscle pain and spasm
• Inflammation
• Wound healing
• Improving circulation
• Maintenance of joint health

Our physiotherapists use a Class 3B laser. The therapy is non-invasive and is particularly useful for older dogs struggling with flare ups or painful episodes. When used in conjunction with hydrotherapy, results tend to be very positive and lead to a happier overall patient.

Aqua Dog has Ireland’s only Companion Health Stance Analysis mat. This piece of equipment can be utilised to assess where a patient is placing their weight. This is particularly useful for post-operative cases where we can measure exactly how much pressure is going through an operated limb to assess its strength post-surgery. We record this so we can assess this as they progress along their treatment plan.

We often use this in conjunction with water treadmill therapy to measure the effectiveness of our treatment plans and make adjustments accordingly. The mat may also be used to discover early on-set lameness and pin point specific weaknesses in patients. Fitness clients will use the mat to ensure their pet is in good condition for either sporting or showing activities.

All members of the team are trained in how to carry out both gait and stance assessments.

Our puppy physiotherapy checks are suitable for dogs up to 6 months. This check is similar to our initial assessment where our therapist can help give you some conditioning exercises and discuss the vital aspects of puppyhood with you to ensure they develop correctly.

All aspects of your puppy are considered from breed, history and exercise levels. Our therapist is more than happy to assist you with advice on how to get the best out of your young dog.