There are various therapies available that can assist your dog’s movement and ease discomfort. You can obtain a referral via your vet or contact a practitioner directly via their professional association; you will need a letter from your vet to confirm that the treatment will be suitable.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy uses the properties of water to improve mobility in a purpose-built, heated hydrotherapy pool or underwater treadmill. It is important to use a Registered Canine Hydrotherapist who is required to abide by a professional code of practice and ethics and undertake a minimum of 20 hours of Continued Professional Development (CPD) annually. Registered Canine Hydrotherapists must also hold public liability and professional indemnity insurance. To find a registered practitioner and for further information, go to the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists website or ask for a referral from your vet.
Massage
Canine massage targets soft tissue injuries and orthopaedic problems as well as being useful for sporting dogs such as agility competitors, show exhibitors, cani-X competitors and gun dogs. The Canine Massage Guild is a network of professional therapeutic canine massage practitioners across the UK. It regulates practitioners and guarantees that members have trained in Swedish, sports, deep tissue and myofascial release techniques. Members are required to complete a minimum of 25 hours of Continued Professional Development (CPD) annually and to hold public liability and professional indemnity insurance.
Galen Canine Myotherapy
Often injuries or pain cause muscle groups to become tense and take on a compensatory role, causing discomfort and inbalance. Galen Canine Myotherapy is a manual technique that targets muscles to improve functionally and manage conditions caused by trauma, repetitive strain or conditions such as arthritis.
Tellington Touch (TTouch)
Tellington TTouch is a non-invasive technique that uses body work, ground work exercises and equipment to release tension and to promote a feeling of calm and well being in the dog. Practitioners note responses to stimuli, posture, balance, movement and muscle development, heart rate and respiration and the texture and appearance of the coat to indicate areas to target. It can be useful for dogs that are nervous or defensive.
Galen Myotherpay and TTouch run courses for owners so that you can use the techniques at home.