Barney enjoying the new hydrotherapy facility.

The world-famous charity now offers hydrotherapy for dogs of all kinds.

A brand-new hydrotherapy centre has been opened by Battersea at their London site. It will be available for both the dogs at Battersea, and open for bookings from members of the public for their own dogs.

Hydrotherapy can be particularly useful for dogs with orthopaedic conditions, and can help them rehabilitate and manage these conditions, as well as alleviating common pains and ailments that these dogs face. The hydrotherapy and veterinary physiotherapist team at Battersea will support the post-operative rehabilitation and recovery of dogs, and time spent in the hydrotherapy pool will support the dogs' emotional and physical needs via exercise.

Not only is the hydrotherapy centre hugely beneficial for dogs that require rehabilitation, but it can also be beneficial to all kinds of dogs with different circumstances. As such, Battersea is opening up the facility for bookings, and will provide public hydrotherapy sessions which will be tailored to the individual needs of each dog.

These bookable sessions include water familiarising for puppies, puppy swimming courses, fun swims for dogs who do not have specific medical needs, weight management, and veterinary referral cases. The sessions aim to provide both fun and much-needed care.

The canine behaviour and training manager at Battersea, Nathalie Ingham, said: “Battersea has always focused on providing the highest standards of animal care and now we look forward to helping many more dogs with our hydrotherapy facilities. Several dogs in our care have been having regular sessions already and it’s clear to see what a positive impact it’s had on the dogs, not just physically, but mentally too.

“It’s great to be able to open up the facilities to members of the public, and help even more dogs beyond our gates.”

Able to be opened due to the support of Battersea's donors, the hydrotherapy facility includes a 6x3m pool, resistance jets, and an underwater treadmill, all of which are greatly useful for alleviating pain and rehabilitating dogs.

For more information, booking details, and a virtual 360 tour of the facility, visit battersea.org.uk/about-us

Images (c) Battersea Dogs & Cats Home