CAM’s Video Series and K9HS Poster for an owners’ guide to current clinical hydrotherapy practice

Welcome

K9HS Courses has designed this Q&A information poster resource especially with you in mind.

Canine physiotherapy and clinical hydrotherapy is the fastest growing sector in the animal care industry. It’s vital to differentiate clinical hydrotherapy from dog water parks and fun swims, overseen by owners and well intentioned lifeguards.

Therapeutic canine clinical hydrotherapy is safe and effective, delivered by qualified professionals.

Many canine therapists hold multiple qualifications and will offer an individual canine service, specific to their current professional status. Your canine hydrotherapist is a professional and is legally obligated in the UK to ensure a Duty of Care to your dog and you, the owner client.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8d8Gh8n_Qos

Episode 1: CAM Questions

How to Find a Therapist?

Recommendation by;

Friends
Clients
Vets

Professional Associations searches

**Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (ICH)** is part of the Institute of Registered Veterinary and Animal Physiotherapists (IRVAP)
Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA)
National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (NARCH)

Other search sources

Search websites for local services
Local dog training clubs

Voluntary Regulatory Bodies

Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners (RAMP)
Animal Health Professions Register (AHPR)

How to Get a Referral?

Your Registered Veterinary Surgeon (RVS) is the referring agent, providing consent / delegation
Owners choose which centre or therapist they want
Referral Form is usually downloaded from the website of the chosen therapist

What To Look for in a Centre?

The therapists professional qualifications, experience and up to date Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Portfolio
Friendly, caring and interested plus know their practice ethos
Options for a meet and greet to view centre and meet therapist / video of practice
Good communication opportunities for owners by phone / video call / in person

Are the sessions linked to physiotherapy treatment?
Is a home advice / home programme provided?
Does the therapist have hands on contact with your dog in the water (See Episode 3)
Review their video of typical practice (K9HS YouTube Channel)
Find out what equipment is available (See Episode 3)
Find out if they use buoyancy aids / harnesses (See Episode 4)

Water management and water quality is consistently good
Good standards of cleanliness and hygiene
Access to their centre's water records / Terms and Conditions (T&Cs)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWu_yK1dybk