Swim Therapy for Dogs

Swim Therapy is a very useful tool to help dogs overcome physical problems such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, surgery for such things as knee replacement, TPLOs, hip replacement etc. I am not acting as a veterinarian in these cases, merely a physical therapist for the dog's best and quickest recovery. Please check out www.dogtherapy.com for more information about the physical therapy benefits to swim therapy. However, what I have also found is that all dogs benefit from swim therapy and especially those dogs that are fearful or fear aggressive to other dogs. (Aggression with people is another matter and needs to be discussed on an individual basis.)

During a therapy session dogs learn to trust me as I guide them through the water and the therapy. I concentrate on building their confidence so they do not have to resort to the fear aggression when they are unsure. The relaxation of the therapy in water lets the mind adjust to the new sensations quickly which builds even more confidence. I have taught many dogs who were fearful of getting into a pool how to enter with confidence after only three days.

Swim therapy is always done in three sessions on three consecutive days. The dog is learning new patterns of behavior along with the dog's body, muscles and nerves. It takes three days to "re-pattern" the brain and let go of old habits. In cases of hip dysplasia, it may be a good idea to "tune-up" your dog every other month.

Here are some comments from a satisfied client:

Hi Leslie!

Just wanted to say a "huge thanks," Tala loves the pool. She is going in on her own to catch the ball, swims to the opposite end, gets out and waits for me to throw the ball again. She's getting great exercise! I've enclosed a photo I took while you were working with Tala - thought you might enjoy. I've also included a picture of Theo - he prefers to use the pool strictly for sunbathing!

THANKS AGAIN!
-Lisa

Private Sessions are available in your home if your swimming pool maintains a minimum temperature of 89° F. or above. If your pool is not at that temperature or above or if you do not have access to a pool, you may need to wait for a clinic sponsored by a pool owner. If you are a pool owner, interested in sponsoring a clinic please contact me directly. All clinics are a minimum of five dogs (not necessarily counting the pool owner's dogs). For the pool sponsor only the cost for the first dog is free. Ask me for a custom quote on working extra dogs in the household.

Please call for information on when the next clinic will be held!