← All servicesHydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy for happier joints

Warm-water swims and underwater treadmill sessions that build strength without the strain — and usually end in a very waggy towel-off.

A happy spaniel swimming across a bright blue pool with a red ball in its mouth
Life vest included Underwater treadmill
What it helps

Water does the heavy lifting

Warm water supports up to 60% of your pet’s body weight, soothes sore muscles and adds gentle resistance — so they can build strength with far less pressure on their joints.

  • Arthritis

    Warmth eases stiffness while easy swimming keeps joints moving and muscles strong.

  • Post-surgery

    Safe, low-impact rebuilding after cruciate, hip or spinal surgery — always with your vet’s go-ahead.

  • Weight

    Burns more energy than a walk, without pounding already-tired legs.

  • Confidence

    Nervous or wobbly pets learn to trust their bodies again, one paddle at a time.

Your session

What a session looks like

  1. 1

    Hello & check-in

    A quick chat about the week, a sniff around and a gentle look at how they’re moving today.

  2. 2

    Vest on, slow entry

    A fitted life vest and a ramp into the warm pool — no jumping, no splashing in at the deep end.

  3. 3

    Swim or treadmill work

    20–25 minutes of guided exercise, with Priya in the water and plenty of rests (and treats).

  4. 4

    Rinse, towel & dry

    A warm rinse and a cosy blow-dry, so they leave fluffy instead of soggy.

  5. 5

    Notes to take home

    A short progress note and one or two easy exercises to do on your daily walks.

“Water takes the weight off sore joints, so dogs who struggle on land suddenly feel strong again. Seeing that moment never gets old.”

Priya NairHydrotherapist at Tailwise
Who it’s for

Made for paddlers of every kind

  • Dogs recovering from cruciate, hip or elbow surgery
  • Seniors with arthritis or stiff, achy mornings
  • Pets on a weight plan who need joint-friendly cardio
  • Sporty dogs building fitness or returning from injury
  • First-time swimmers — we go at their pace, always

Tip: Bring a favourite toy. A familiar ball turns the first swim into a game.

Tailwise

Every wag deserves a wellness plan.

Book a visit
Good questions

Things pet parents ask us

Everything you want to know before your first visit.

Not for behaviour coaching or fitness plans. For rehab after surgery we’ll ask your vet for notes — just give us their name and we handle the rest.

A relaxed 60-minute assessment: we watch how your pet moves, plays and reacts, talk through history and goals, then leave you with a written plan the same day.

Yes. Every pet wears a fitted life vest, a therapist is in the water with them, and first sessions are short, warm and full of treats.

Most policies cover rehab and physiotherapy. We send itemised invoices and can file the claim with your insurer for you.