Based in Port Kembla, near Wollongong, Water Walkies boasts the region’s first designated dog hydrotherapy pool in a purpose-built facility where we offer treatments for injury rehabilitation, pain management, and weight loss. Our certified canine hydrotherapists can develop a customised treatment plan that is appropriate for your dog’s specific condition and stage of recovery. We also welcome clients to attend for fun and general fitness. Swimming is great for general strength, cardiovascular conditioning and weight management.
As members of a multi-modality team, we will liaise closely with clients Vets and other specialists. Veterinary Consent is required for all hydrotherapy treatments, even for a fun swim. This ensures your hydrotherapist has a complete picture of your companion’s condition, behaviour, clinical history and any contraindications for hydrotherapy. The centre also features an underwater treadmill with 360-degree cameras for assessing gait and prescribing individualised therapy programs. Moreover, we have DIY dog wash facilities where you can give your four-legged best friend a good wash after a hydrotherapy session.
→ What is Hydrotherapy? Hydrotherapy is used to relieve pain and promote physical well-being, it is a controlled exercise using the therapeutic properties of water which is maintained at the optimum temperature of 28-30⁰c. The thermal effect promotes the circulation of blood flow which relaxes tight muscles and eases pain and inflammation. Hydrotherapy can be used for rehabilitation for both pre and post-surgery, weight management, fitness, conditioning, water confidence or just outright fun! Exercising in water helps dogs regain strength, reduces swelling and stiffness, improves range of motion, and strengthens and improves muscle tone. A five minute swim is equal to a 5 km run on land due to the resistance of the water. The heated water and the buoyancy can help achieve exercises in water that would not be possible on land
→ More About Our Hydrotherapist
Our hydrotherapists are trained and qualified in every aspect of hydrotherapy, and have completed Certificates in Canine Hydrotherapy and hold Practitioner Membership with the Australian Canine Rehab Association - ACRA. They’ve also completed an internship with world-renowned Greyfriars Veterinary Rehabilitation & Hydrotherapy Referrals in Guildford United Kingdom. In addition, our hydrotherapists hold certificates in Canine Massage and Animal First Aid.
