Bearhugs Canine Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy literally means water healing its particular value is in the warmth and pressure of the water and the buoyancy it provide. Some of the main benefits offered by hydrotherapy are:

• Relief from pain, swelling and stiffness
• Joint mobilisation
• Promotion of relaxation
• Muscle restoration and maintenance
• An increased range of movement
• Zero impact stress-free gentle exercise
• Improving circulation and cardiovascular function and a dogs physical and mental wellbeing
• More intensive than in air

The warm water relaxes muscles and causes the blood capillaries to expand which increases muscle heat and improves circulation which in turn reduces pain, swelling and stiffness.

Hydrostatic pressure of the water assists in reducing swelling by causing the build up of tissue fluids to move away from the affected area toward the heart, and for the body to more easily dispose of this waste product.

Buoyancy creates a weightless environment which greatly reduces pain by relieving the body structure of its weight and takes pressure of affected areas.

Qualified therapists

We are delighted to be members of the Institute of Registered Veterinary & Animal Physiotherapists.

Meet the team

Jacqui Woodhall

Founder

Jacqui has been involved in Newfoundland dogs for more than twenty years and is a member of all three Newfoundland breed clubs in the UK. She started with one dog and a love of showing and working activities has seen her numbers increase over the years to 8 dogs, almost all home bred. Active as a committee member of the Northern Newfoundland Club she is involved with water and draught work training, health and welfare matters and judging.

Jacqui's particular interest has always been in canine health matters. She first joined a health and longevity committee and is now a member of an independent health group dedicated to large giant breeds particularly Newfoundland. During her time training dogs in water work she was shocked by the number of 'disabled' dogs she saw either from hip dysplasia, cruciate damage or similar. This prompted a desire to do something more and she is a vocal advocate in educating prospective puppy buyers on the importance of only purchasing puppies breed from dogs and bitches free from all crippling diseases. Her canine hydrotherapy business is helping those that are suffering and provides Jacqui with a opportunity to give something back to the world of dogs from which she takes so much pleasure.