South Downs Veterinary Referrals

20/05/2026

Clyde may be starting to turn a little grey, but he’s still living life to the fullest 🐾

This handsome Labrador attends regular hydrotherapy maintenance sessions to help keep his joints moving comfortably, maintain muscle strength, and support mobility as he gets older.

Hydrotherapy isn’t just for recovery after surgery — it’s also a fantastic way to help our senior dogs stay active, comfortable, and happy for longer!

We think Clyde wears his silver face very well🐶

18/05/2026

Small changes around the home can make a big difference to your pet’s mobility, comfort, and long-term joint health 💙

🏡 Flooring
Slippery floors like laminate or vinyl can make dogs tense their muscles, shorten their stride, and increase the risk of slips, strains, and soreness. Rugs or runners can help improve confidence and stability.

🛋️ Jumping
Repeated jumping on and off sofas, beds, or in and out of the car increases impact through the joints — especially the front limbs. Steps or ramps can help reduce unnecessary strain.

🍽️ Feeding
Raised bowls can be beneficial for pets with neck pain, arthritis, or reduced mobility, making mealtimes more comfortable.

🛏️ Sleeping
Supportive bedding, away from draughts and cold floors, can help reduce stiffness and post-rest soreness — particularly in older pets.

Sometimes the best rehabilitation starts at home.

📩 If your dog is slowing down, slipping, or showing signs of stiffness, get in touch with our rehabilitation team for tailored home environment advice.

14/05/2026

This is Suki, a beautiful 1 year old Cavapoo who recently visited our Storrington hospital for her spay.

We’re pleased to say the procedure went really well, and Ski has since been back to see us for a couple of post-operative check ups and is recovering brilliantly 🤗

13/05/2026

Everyone meet baby Fletcher! 💙

At just 5 months old, Fletcher has recently been introduced to the underwater treadmill — not for rehabilitation, but simply to build confidence and create a positive experience around water from a young age 🌊

Early introductions like this can be so beneficial for puppies, helping them become comfortable in new environments, around handling, and with the sensation of water in a calm and controlled setting

And as you can see… Fletcher took it all in his stride like a little superstar ⭐

👉 Swipe for a surprise 👀

📩 Want to find out more about puppy hydrotherapy introductions? Get in touch with our rehabilitation team

11/05/2026

UK winter sea temperatures can drop to 6–10°C, while your dog’s normal body temperature sits around 38–39°C. That sudden temperature change can cause muscles to tighten rapidly, reduce flexibility, and increase the risk of strains, tears, and joint discomfort.

Cold water can also slow circulation, reduce movement efficiency, and contribute to conditions like Limber Tail — a painful tail muscle injury often linked to cold exposure. In severe cases, prolonged cold can lead to hypothermia.

We’re not saying dogs can’t enjoy the beach in winter 💙 But if it feels too cold for you, it may be too cold for them too. Keep dips brief, dry them thoroughly, and watch for stiffness or discomfort afterwards.

Prevention is always better than rehabilitation.

Worried your dog may be stiff or sore after cold-weather adventures? Get in touch with our rehabilitation team for advice and support.

10/05/2026

10/05/2026

Watch our hydrotherapy LIVE

10/05/2026

08/05/2026

Meet our star demo dogs for this Sunday's LIVE hydrotherapy demonstrations!

11:30am - ⭐️ Millie ⭐️
Millie is a 9 year old labradoodle, who loves nothing more than snacks and cuddles! This sweet girl loves trotting in the hydro tank, and has somehow mastered this while also eating and wagging her tail!

1:00pm - ⭐ Juno ⭐️
Juno is one handsome 2 year old working cocker spaniel. This handsome boy has bundles of energy, and is always showing off his special happy wiggles when he visits for hydrotherapy!

2:30pm - ⭐️ Ranger ⭐️
Ranger is our favourite 10 year old beagle. Ranger is an expressive and talkative boy, who even sings when he is extra happy! He's been a hydro regular for years, and loves it, especially when there are treats involved!

Join us at our Storrington hospital during the duck race this Sunday, in the library car park.

08/05/2026

You’d never guess her age… but Millie is nearly 10 years old!

Still trotting along beautifully 💙 — and that’s no accident.

As our dogs get older, regular maintenance sessions like physiotherapy and hydrotherapy become so important. They help to:
✨ Maintain strength and muscle mass
✨ Keep joints mobile and comfortable
✨ Reduce stiffness and slow the progression of arthritis
✨ Support overall quality of life

Millie is a perfect example that age is just a number when the right support is in place 🐶

📩 Want to keep your dog moving like Millie? Get in touch with our team to discuss a personalised maintenance plan.