Chapel Farm

What Are the Benefits of Hydrotherapy for Dogs? Hydrotherapy has many benefits for dogs, but it may also prevent other medical conditions that come together with ageing and other health conditions. They include : 🐾Reduce inflammation and injuries 🐾Increase blood circulation 🐾Reduce and may even remove pressure from joints 🐾Improves motion 🐾Increase muscle mass 🐾Increase mental stimulation 🐾Increase stamina and strength 🐾Offer better cardiovascular fitness The use of the underwater treadmill may also offer many other benefits and suit needs of each dog different, such as allowing water level adjustment, controlled movements and altering speed, re-educating gait, and decreasing levels of anxiety by allowing them to reach the floor.

Our dog of the month for March is a staff dog…Elvis! Elvis is our physio Ellen’s dog who unfortunately got diagnosed with a osteosarcoma in his right shoulder last year. Ellen first noticed that he became increasingly anxious and reactive towards other dogs. He was then intermittently lame on his right fore. Due to the lameness and behaviour changes, Ellen requested a CT of the limb to identify the cause of his pain, it was then she had the devastating news. An osteosarcoma is an aggressive form of bone cancer so the only form of treatment was a forelimb amputation. Luckily it has not spread yet to his lungs or organs. Elvis was in the best hands with Ellen and did amazing post op and after a week of being a bit bruised, he was back up to his usual spaniel craziness. His behaviour issues improved as soon as he recovered from the surgery. The initial stages of his recovery were about making sure he was comfortable and building up his confidence moving around on three legs. He practiced day to day exercises including his transfers (e.g. sit to stand and lie to stand), Ellen adapted the home with rugs and raised bowls. He also got a fancy new harness with a handle to give him support if needed and his walks gradually increased over time until he was ready to run off lead with his sister! Much to Elvis’s delight, he was able to go back to his favourite place in the whole wide world…Chapel Farm. He started swimming three weeks post op, and loved it!! The girls struggled to hold him back! Swimming had been great for him to exercise non-weight bearing and build up his strength. He now swims independently whenever he joins Ellen at work! We don’t know how long we have left with him but we do know we will make sure he has the best time as possible 😍

A muscle spasm is a sudden, involuntary contraction of one or more muscles. These contractions can be brief or prolonged and may cause mild to severe pain. Muscle spasms can be caused by a variety of factors, including muscle overuse, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, muscle fatigue, stress, and poor circulation. They can also be associated with medical conditions such as muscle strains, nerve compression, and certain diseases. Treatment for muscle spasms often involves rest, gentle stretching, massage, and applying heat or cold to the affected area. It's important to determine the underlying cause in order to get the appropriate treatment.

Cavalettis are a common exercise prescribed to dogs for rehab. These exercises are great for dogs with orthopedic or neurologic conditions, or recovering from various injuries or surgeries, but also for athletes or working dogs to keep the body in functional condition.Have a look at the videos of them being demonstrated of a few options on how you can use them.You may have an incredible canine conditioning secret tucked away in your garage, closet, or kitchen that we've not thought of. We would love to see your videos of your homemade cavalettis.

Here we have Suzie demonstrating how to walk backwards. Backwards walking can be useful for improving : 🐾 Balance and proprioception 🐾 Active hip extension 🐾Glute and hamstring strength We may also use backwards walking to help shift their centre of gravity back if they have a forelimb issue. 💕Top tip: to teach walking backwards, hold a treat to the dogs chest and they will walk backwards to try and get it. If they go off to one side, use the sofa or wall to keep them straight. Like how Suzie is demonstrating here 😍 Send us videos of you dog walking backwards!!

Here is our second instalment of advice when looking after your pet following surgery. Mental stimulation is crucial during crate rest to prevent boredom and anxiety. Why not try some of these activities to keep your dog entertained. 🐾 Puzzle toys: Use treat-dispensing puzzle toys or snuffle mat to engage your dog's mind. 🐾 Training sessions: Teach your dog new tricks or reinforce existing commands using positive reinforcement methods. 🐾 Interactive games: Play hide and seek with treats or toys to keep your dog mentally active. 🐾 Calming music or TV: Some dogs find comfort in soothing sounds or images, which can help reduce stress. 🐾 Quality time: Simply spending time with your dog, offering comfort and affection can reassure them during this challenging time. Gentle strokes and cuddles can go a long way in reducing anxiety. Throughout all this, remember to keep a close eye on your dog's overall condition. Look for any signs of infection, excessive swelling, bleeding, or behavioural changes. And stick to a consistent daily routine to help your dog feel secure. Patience is key, as recovery can be a slow process. Celebrate small improvements along the way. #dog #dogsofinstagram #dogsofIG #dogoftheday #lovedogs #germanshepherd #gsd #postop #healing #rehab #recovery #snuffle #mentalenrichment

Wondering what to expect when your dog is referred to us? 🐶 Every rehabilitation patient we treat first has an assessment with one of our ACPAT Physiotherapists. This is an hour-long appointment in which our physiotherapist will analyse your dog’s gait and movement pattern; assess their passive and active range of motion; check their muscle balance, strength and flexibility; and palpate soft tissues. Our physio will then talk you through a treatment plan for your dog’s injury or medical condition. Rehabilitation plans typically combine several treatment modalities, such as exercises, therapeutic massage, laser and hydrotherapy. The physio will also answer any questions you might have, and provide support and advice. In your dog’s initial assessment our physio may (if appropriate) provide laser therapy or massage. They will also walk you through your dog’s bespoke home exercise programme, and demonstrate how each exercise should be done. If you have concerns about how your dog will respond in their initial assessment, rest assured that every appointment is tailored to the needs of each patient. If your dog is worried, anxious or wary of handling, our physio will take this into consideration and run the appointment at a pace your dog is comfortable with. Join Reggie for his initial assessment with our physio, Ellen. #dogrehab #dogphysio #vetrehab #doggyrehab #rehab #physio #physiotherapy #dog #dogsofinstagram #dogsofIG #dogoftheday #lovedogs #goldenretriever

At Chapel Farm Rehab we have a wide range of services and equipment offering a multi-modal approach to canine rehabilitation. Join us as we take a video tour of what to expect at Chapel Farm Rehab. Rehabilitation Services: 🐾 Physiotherapy appointments with ACPAT Physiotherapists 🐾 Hydrotherapy in the underwater treadmill or our large 10x6m heated hydrotherapy pool with Registered Canine Hydrotherapists 🐾 Massage with a Clinical Canine Massage Therapist 🐾 Class 4 laser to help with healing and recovery 🐾 Therapeutic exercise sessions for owners that struggle with exercises at home 🐾 Stance Analyser to measure weight distribution 🐾 Scales for weight management Other services and facilities: 🐾 Puppy & Fitness Assessments with an ACPAT Physiotherapist 🐾 Fun & Fitness Swims with Registered Canine Hydrotherapists 🐾 On-site shop with dog treats and food 🐾 Shower and drying facilities Message to find out more about our services or to arrange a visit. #caninehydro #caninephysio #doghydro #dogphysio #dogrehab #caninerehab #vetrehab #vetphysio #vethydro #vet #physio #hydro #caninemassage #dogmassage #exercise #fitness #lasertherapy #hydrophysio #puppy #dog

Some people refer to the middle of the week as Hump Day, but we like to call it Waggy Tail Wednesday 🐶 #dogsofinstagram #dogsofbristol #dog #doglover #happytails #dogstagram #dogslife #happydogs #happy #humpday #waggytail #waggytailwednesday

For some dogs, especially those that may be reactive to handling due to pain or discomfort, traditional physiotherapy assessments can be challenging - especially when it comes to testing range of motion. However, in the pool dogs are often more relaxed or distracted which enables a canine hydrotherapist to effectively assess their range of motion underwater. By doing this, the hydrotherapist can pinpoint areas of discomfort or limitation and report back to the physiotherapist to ensure the best possible treatment plan going forward. As a puppy Scooby would snarl or snap at anyone who touched his hind legs. Worried that he may be in pain, his owners took him to the vet and he was soon after diagnosed with bilateral hip dysplasia. Despite being an otherwise sweet and cuddly pup, our physio found it difficult to physically assess his hips as he would become reactive at any attempt. But in the pool Scooby was quite happy for the hydrotherapist to have a feel of his muscles and test his range of motion. Scooby now has a treatment plan that alternates between the pool and underwater treadmill to ensure he gets the most out of his appointments. #caninehydro #doghydro #dogswim #dogswimming #dogrehab #dogphysio #vetrehab #bordercollie #hipdysplasia #instadog #dogoftheday

Meet Beau, a 7-year-old Doberman who was referred to us in June this year for osteoarthritis in her hips. Beau began physiotherapy and hydrotherapy in the underwater treadmill, but soon transitioned to the pool to help ease stiffness and promote strengthening. Beau’s owner says she now appears much less stiff and no longer paces when she walks. Her owner has also noticed that Beau seems to struggle more if she misses a swim. In this video, Beau is enjoying a float and relaxing massage from Clair, which helps to relieve tension in her muscles while at rest between laps of the pool. #caninemassage #dogmassage #caninehydrotherapy #caninehydro #dogswim #dogswimming#dogrehab #caninerehab #vetrehab #vethydro #vetphysio #rehab #floatingdog #dog #dogsofinstagram #dogoftheday#relax #relaxation #therapy #watertherapy #feelgood #doberman #dogsofinstagram #doglife

Sometimes what our patients need most is a nice, relaxing float in our hydrotherapy pool. Here 17-year old Togo is enjoying the therapeutic benefits of buoyancy, which primarily for him includes reducing the stress of weight-bearing on his achy joints, and pain relief. Our Registered Canine Hydrotherapists ensure he is fully supported throughout his session and the controlled water temperature guarantees comfort. Additionally, floating in water can offer psychological benefits in helping to reduce stress and anxiety. #caninehydrotherapy #caninehydro #dogswim #dogswimming #dogrehab #caninerehab #vetrehab #vethydro #vetphysio #rehab #floatingdog #dog #dogsofinstagram #dogoftheday #relax #relaxation #therapy #watertherapy

Step up exercise 🐶 Elvis is back in the building, this time showing us how to do a step up exercise. This physio exercise is perfect for strengthening the quadriceps muscles. We tend to use this exercise in the later stages of rehab as it can be quite challenging. It is also a functional exercise as it can help prepare dogs to go up and down stairs. How to do it: 🐾 Have the dog approach a firm block square on. 🐾 Ask the dog to put his front legs on the step and pause for a second to let them get their balance. 🐾 Then slowly lure the dog forward ensuring that they step up on the block one leg at a time. 🐾 Next slowly keep the dog walking forward so they slowly step down from the block. Repeat 5-10 times Caution: If your dog is bunny hopping up or skipping down the step then it is probably too difficult currently so speak to your physiotherapist about an alternate exercise. This exercise is perfect for dogs with patella luxation, advanced post operative stifle surgery and hip flexor weakness associated with conditions like hip dysplasia. #dogphysiotherapy #dogphysio #caninerehab #dogmobility #dogphysicaltherapy #canineconditioning #petphysio #dogrehab #exercise #physioexercise #stepup #strengthening #rehab #patellaluxation #hipdysplasia #exercisemotivation #exercisetips #dog #spaniel #healthypups #goodboy

Maisie is an 8-year-old Vizsla who came to us in March following a total left hip replacement. In her initial assessment she presented with muscle wastage and reduced weight-bearing in her left hind. Over the past few months Maisie has undergone a course of hydrotherapy in the underwater treadmill and swims in the pool, coupled with physiotherapy and home exercises. We have noted great improvement in Maisie’s gait, range of motion, muscle mass and overall strength. Here is a video of Maisie’s transformation in the underwater treadmill, from her first session in March through to her most recent last week. Keep up the amazing work Maisie! #doghydro #dogphysio #vetrehab #dogtreadmill #underwatertreadmill #hydrophysio #totalhipreplacement #vizsla

Testing range of motion is an important part of any patients’ initial assessment as it allows our physiotherapists to assess joint flexibility, mobility, and any potential issues or limitations. Here our physio, Ellen, starts with a passive range of motion test on Robbie’s hip, stifle and hock joints. She moves his hind limbs through various joint motions - including flexion and extension. Ellen follows this with an active range of motion test, whereby she encourages him to use his muscles and joints actively. Throughout these tests she will note any restrictions or pain felt during these movements. #dogphysio #dogrehab #physio #rangeofmotion #vetrehab #jackrussel #healthypups #goodboy

We utilise a range of hands-on techniques in the treadmill in order to achieve our rehabilitation goals, which can include hind limb placing. This technique can be applied when a dog is unable to achieve a good hind limb gait, either due to a neurological issue or hindlimb weakness. Hind limb placing involves a hydrotherapist kneeling or standing behind the dog in the treadmill and as the dog walks, moving the hind limbs in a bicycling motion with the paws planted firmly on the treadmill belt during stance phase. When utilised correctly, hind limb placing can help a patient achieve increased range of motion, flight arch and stride length. The aim is that this gait pattern carries through without support in the treadmill, and eventually onto land. If the paw makes solid contact with the belt on stance phase this can also help with increasing the dog's proprioceptive awareness. Hind limb placing can be useful for dogs with neurological conditions such as paralysis, degenerative myelopathy or spondylosis; as well as orthopaedic conditions causing hind limb weakness such as osteoarthritis or hip dysplasia. #doghydro #watertreadmill #watertreadmillfordogs #dogrehab #vetrehab #justkeepwalking #cavapoo

Sit to stand 🐶. This exercise teaches control through the core musculature and hind limbs. Aim: Strengthening of hindlimb musculature – mainly quadriceps and gluteals. Good for improving joint range of movement. How to do it correctly: 🐾 Start with your dog in a square stand -Forelimbs directly under the shoulders and the hind legs angled straight down. -A straight line should be drawn between the head and the tail 🐾 Ask your dog to sit, ensuring that they are sitting square 🐾 Then slowly encourage them up into a standing position again without stepping forward. 🐾 Repeat with the manoeuvre Caution: No dogs are perfect and they all have their unique problems as does Elvis so this may alter how they choose to sit. The aim is for slow controlled movement with equal weight-bearing through each hindlimb. You may find that the dog preferentially uses one side more than the other. Or you may find that they collapse into the sit position rather than control it. All of which we are trying to avoid! If you are struggling to get a square sit try performing against a wall or onto a slightly higher surface initially to help the movement. Let us know how you get on in the comments below.

Underwater treadmill sessions can benefit dogs suffering from a variety of conditions including arthritis, those recovering from orthopaedic surgery or a neurological condition, as well as improving the fitness of a competition or working dog. An underwater treadmill uses the properties of water to aid the rehabilitation process by: * Resistance to help restore muscle strength, endurance and cardiovascular health, which is variable by speed * Buoyancy helps by reducing the impact on degenerative joints and supporting sore or weak dogs, which is variable by water height * Controlled temperature around 29 degrees , warmth improves circulation and aids relaxation, reducing muscle and joint pain * Hydrostatic pressure helps by improving circulation and reducing swelling, in turn aiding the healing process Underwater treadmill sessions should be used in addition to land-based therapies, which is why when your pet is referred to us for hydrotherapy, they are initially examined by one of our Physiotherapists. Once assessed a targeted treatment plan will be recommended, this also includes a home management programme, which is designed to complement your dogs underwater treadmill sessions. The lovely Mabel is 17 years young and loves her weekly sessions!

Even in our rehab sessions, we like to challenge the dogs (if case appropriate) and incorporate fun tricks to help their mental well-being as well as building on their strength and fitness. Here are Katie and Rio doing just that.....

Sherpa had her physiotherapy review today, and it was great news, she is now allowed back to short periods of the lead and has been moved down to maintenance swims! 💦