Hydrotherapy - Underwater Treadmill

While the benefits of utilizing the bouyancy and resistance of water for rehabilitation and strength training are well-known, the concept has only recently become an integral part of veterinary medicine.  At Angel Veterinary Center our underwater treadmill has been designed specifically for animals and provides a reduced gravity environment for low impact exercise.  By adjusting the water level, hydrotherapy jets and the incline, pets are able to progress at their own speed.  Dr Lane explains, "It is important to understand that the underwater treadmill is not just for pets recovering from surgery - it has so many more applications!  We highly recommend it for weight loss, arthritis and general stiffness that comes with age, agility dog training, exercise when the weather is too hot or cold, and emotional well being.  Plus, after the initial adjustment, most of them think it's really fun and seem quite proud of themselves when they get out! Below are the stories of just three of the many amazing dogs we have been priviliged to help:

Sadie is a 31/2 year old German Shepherd/Corgi mix whose story is truly amazing.  On November 10th, 2008 Saidie underwent spinal cord surgery to remove massive blood clots and ruptured disc material; her owners chose to do surgery even though her chances for survival were questionable due to the inflammatory fluid that had damaged her spinal cord.  Fortunately Sadie made it through surgery, but the doctors informed her owners tht it would be a miracle if she ever walked again.

Not to be deterred, Sadie's parents had her fitted for a cart in December (see picture on right).  When they learned about our rehabilitation program, they then contacted Dr. Lane for a consultation.  He recommended Laser Therapy and Hydrotherapy, and Sadie began coming in for regular appointments.  With lots of hard work on her part, and dedication on the part of her parents, Sadie now walks on her own!!  Her mom reports, "In January I came home and Sadie was standing on her own, and she has not used her cart since March!" Dr. Lane explains, "The laser therapy reduced Sadie's inflammation, while the treadmill sessions have patterned her rear legs so that she can walk with them even though she cannot feel them. Sadie continues to come in for regular hydrotherapy sessions to maintain her muscle tone; she is one of the sweetest dogs I have met, and she is truly a miracle!"

Andy is a 12-year-old Australian Shepherd who had bilateral knee (TPLO) surgery, and as a result he struggled to walk just 15 minutes per day.  Andy's dad was disappointed that they could no longer enjoy getting out and taking long walks together.  Dr. Lane explained that the safest way for Andy to rebuild his strength was to use the underwater treadmill, because he could adjust the water level to control the amount of weight bearing without placing stress on his joints.  Andy's dad was determined to help and made a committment to bring him in for ten sessions.  While initially Andy was only able to do 10 minutes, he rapidly built up to 25 minutes without fatigue.  Due to his increased stamina, flexibility and muscle mass, Andy and his dad now enjoy 45 minute walks (weather permitting) without a hitch!