Performance Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy
Physiotherapy for Active & Competitive Dogs
Veterinary physiotherapy for performance focuses on improving strength, movement, and overall physical condition. It supports active dogs and cats in maintaining peak performance while reducing the risk of injury.
Through a combination of hands-on therapy and targeted exercises, each programme is tailored to your pet’s activity level and goals.
Who This Service Is For?
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Physiotherapy plays an important role in keeping active animals performing at their best.
It is ideal for:
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Agility and competition dogs
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Working dogs
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Sporting and active pets
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Young dogs in training
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Pets returning to activity after injury
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Focus areas include:
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Injury prevention
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Performance optimisation
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Improving movement quality
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Maintaining long-term soundness
How Physiotherapy Works
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Physiotherapy supports efficient, balanced movement and physical resilience.
Treatment may include:
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Muscle conditioning and strengthening
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Flexibility and range of motion work
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Movement and gait assessment
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Targeted exercise programmes
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Hands-on therapy to support recovery and performance
Each session is tailored to your pet’s individual needs and workload.
Who it helps
Performance physiotherapy is suitable for:
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Active and sporting dogs
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Working dogs in regular physical roles
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Pets preparing for or returning to competition
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Animals needing structured conditioning
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Pets at risk of injury due to activity levels
What to Expect
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Initial Appointment
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Assessment of movement, strength, and posture
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Discussion of activity level and goals
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Personalised conditioning or rehabilitation plan
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Follow-Up Sessions
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Progressive exercise programmes
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Hands-on treatment where needed
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Ongoing monitoring and performance support
Sessions are designed to be engaging, progressive, and tailored to help your pet perform safely and effectively.
What is Performance Hydrotherapy?
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Hydrotherapy is a low-impact conditioning method using a water treadmill to build strength, improve fitness, and support recovery.
For sporting, working, and active dogs, it provides a safe and controlled way to train the body without excessive strain on joints.
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Supporting Performance & Conditioning
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Hydrotherapy is an excellent addition to a performance programme, helping dogs stay strong, balanced, and resilient.
It is particularly beneficial for:
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Agility and competition dogs
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Working dogs (e.g. gundogs, herding, service dogs)
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Dogs in regular training or competition
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Dogs returning to activity after injury
Focus areas include:
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Strength and muscle development
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Cardiovascular fitness
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Controlled return to work
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Injury prevention and management
​How it Works
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Hydrotherapy uses the natural properties of water to support effective conditioning:
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Buoyancy reduces pressure on joints, allowing safe movement
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Resistance helps build strength and endurance
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Controlled speed and water levels encourage correct movement patterns
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Warm water supports muscle relaxation and recovery
Each session is tailored to your dog’s fitness level, workload, and performance goals.
Working Alongside Physiotherapy
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Hydrotherapy works alongside physiotherapy to provide a well-rounded approach to performance and rehabilitation.
While physiotherapy focuses on hands-on treatment and movement quality, hydrotherapy allows for:
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Controlled strengthening
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Low-impact conditioning
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Progressive return to activity
Combining both approaches often leads to improved performance and reduced risk of injury.
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What to Expect
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Initial Session
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Assessment of movement and fitness
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Introduction to the water treadmill
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Individualised conditioning plan
Ongoing Sessions
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Progressive hydrotherapy training
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Adjustments based on strength and performance
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Monitoring of movement and endurance
Sessions are designed to be structured, controlled, and adapted to support your dog’s performance safely.
Why Include Hydrotherapy?
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Builds strength without overloading joints
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Supports recovery between training sessions
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Improves overall fitness and endurance
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Helps maintain long-term musculoskeletal health
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Reduces risk of injury in active dogs
Physiotherapy, is not a substitute for veterinary intervention. In accordance to the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons ​
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We require veterinary consent for all patients.
Any animal displaying undiagnosed lameness or significant abnormalities will not be treated and veterinary intervention recommended. ​
Your veterinarian must be your first point of contact for any major concerns. ​
We are happy to contact your veterinary practice to obtain consent, however if you would like to get consent yourself click the button below to download our consent form.