Technology allows us to live longer and happier lives, and that applies to our pets too! At Pawsitive Strides Veterinary Rehabilitation and Therapy, our veterinarian in Des Moines uses a variety of technologies to keep your pets healthy. One such service is the underwater treadmill or hydrotherapy. But how can it help your pet?
How the Underwater Treadmill Helps Pets
The underwater treadmill is sometimes described as hydrotherapy. It is a low impact way to administer rehabilitation after an injury, orthopedic surgery, or other conditions that may impact the muscles or skeleton. You can think of it as similar to swimming to rebuild your muscle strength after surgery or injury.
The underwater treadmill can help pets lose weight by increasing their activity level and burning more calories. It is especially effective when paired with a nutritious diet and portion control. The water provides additional resistance to burn more calories, contributing to a healthier weight. The buoyancy of the water also reduces the stress placed on the joints while the animal is using the device, making it a safe and effective way to aid in increasing muscle mass and mobility.
Is the Underwater Treadmill Right For Your Pet?
The underwater treadmill can be beneficial for every pet, though it may not be appropriate for every condition. Pets experiencing difficulty breathing, frequent dermatitis, or other underlying conditions may not be good candidates. Each patient is initially evaluated to ensure the underwater treadmill is a safe option prior to the first appointment. Every session is custom to fit your pet, set with certain standards for your pets health and safety. You might be surprised to learn that even cats undergo hydrotherapy, and sometimes dogs enjoy their sessions even if they’re resistant to water or swimming. For those pets that can be convinced to give it a try, an underwater treadmill can aid in rehabilitation or weight loss.
Learn More about Underwater Treadmills for Pet Health
If you live in or around Des Moines and would like more information about the benefits of underwater treadmill for your pets, contact Pawsitive Strides Veterinary Rehabilitation and Therapy. Call us today at (515) 575-9655.