Choosing the Right Hydrotherapist for Your Animal Companion

In Singapore’s growing community of devoted pet owners, hydrotherapy is gaining recognition as a supplementary treatment for animals recovering from surgery, managing chronic conditions, or simply improving mobility and overall well-being. As demand increases, so does the importance of making informed choices about who is entrusted with your animal companion’s care.

While hydrotherapy may seem straightforward—a pool, a therapist, and a few laps—the reality is more nuanced. Selecting the right hydrotherapist requires a thoughtful assessment of qualifications, facilities, and your animal’s specific needs. This means tailoring sessions based on your animal’s medical history and current condition, but also breed-specific factors, temperament, and behavioural tendencies.

Here are several key considerations to guide that decision.

1. Training, Certification, and Experience Matter

When choosing a hydrotherapist, look for someone with formal training in animal hydrotherapy and a good understanding of animal anatomy. They should also know how hydrotherapy works, including its benefits and limits. A well-qualified therapist will be familiar with different conditions, injuries, and surgeries that can be safely treated with water-based therapy.

This is essential for developing tailored rehabilitation programmes that address your animal’s needs. More importantly, it ensures a results-driven approach, one focused on functional improvement, pain management, and restoring mobility. 

2. Visit the Facility

Visit the facility where the therapy sessions will be conducted to ensure it provides a safe, clean, and pet-friendly environment. The comfort and safety of your animal companion should be a top priority, and this includes ensuring that hydrotherapy equipment, such as underwater treadmills or pools, is well-maintained, hygienic, and appropriate for your animal’s specific needs.

Water quality is essential to maintain safe chlorine levels, reducing the risk of waterborne infections, including diseases such as Leptospirosis, which can be transmitted through contaminated water. 

Underwater treadmill - designed to fit small animals ranging from 1kg up to 75kg,

3. Observe Interaction with Animals

Pay attention to how the hydrotherapist interacts with your animal companion. The practitioner should demonstrate patience, compassion, and sensitivity to your animal’s comfort. A positive experience in the water can help build trust and promote better outcomes, particularly for animals experiencing pain or anxiety.

4. Understand the Techniques Used

Some facilities focus on free-swimming techniques, which can be effective for cardiovascular fitness and general conditioning. Others use equipment such as underwater treadmills, which provide a more controlled environment, ideal for animals recovering from orthopaedic injuries or managing neurological conditions. This can be especially important for breeds with specific vulnerabilities, such as French bulldogs, who are prone to spinal issues due to their compact skeletal structure. Understanding these distinctions allows you to choose a therapeutic approach that best suits your animal’s medical needs, temperament, and physical abilities. 

Milo undergoing his weekly hydrotherapy session in the underwater treadmill following a lumbosacral injury.

5. Tailored Treatments and Cost Clarity

Take the time to discuss both the treatment plan and the financial commitment involved. An experienced hydrotherapist will customise the programme to suit your animal’s individual needs and recovery goals. Open communication is essential, so don’t hesitate to ask about their approach and session structure. At the same time, clarify the cost, including session rates, packages, and any additional fees.

Chocolate having his shower after his Hydrotherapy session in Aura's custom-built pet shower area, designed to bring comfort to both the owner and their companion animals.

6. Communicate with Your Veterinarian

Your veterinarian can be an invaluable resource in this decision. They may have recommendations or insights into suitable hydrotherapists and facilities based on your pet’s health status.

Choosing the right hydrotherapist is about finding someone who not only provides effective therapy but also ensures your animal companion feels safe, supported, and cared for throughout their treatment journey. Whether your companion animal is recovering from surgery or managing a chronic condition, a well-informed hydrotherapist can play a pivotal role in supporting long-term health and quality of life.