Do I need to be referred by a vet?
If your dog is coming for rehabilitation, senior, mobility or weight loss swims, yes, we will require a vet referral. These forms can be printed out and taken in to your vet to fill out. We recommend veterinarian approval for all other swim programmes.
Click here to download the Vet Referral Form as a Word document
Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes, you do need to call to make a booking. Please bear in mind that weekends are popular so it pays to book these times well in advance. You can call us on 045 899590 or email us at info@caninehydrotherapy.ie
How long is each session?
Each session is ½ hour long. Initially your dog may not swim for the whole session until fitness levels increase. Remember that 15 minutes of swimming is the equivalent of 1 hour running, but without the impact on joints!
What will happen if I arrive late or miss my appointment?
Up to 15 minutes late - we will start the swim but your dog(s) will be required to leave the pool area on time to enable the next client's appointment to start punctually.
Over 15 minutes late - we may let the next client start their dogs swimming and try to fit you in at the end of their appointment. This will not always be possible to do. In either case the full charge will apply.
Missed appointments - The full charge will apply.
Cancellations - We require a minimum of 24 hours notice otherwise the full charge will apply.
How many sessions does my dog need?
This depends on the condition of your dog and the rehabilitation that is required. For post-operative swims your dog may visit The Canine Hydrotherapy and Rehabilitation Centre twice weekly for a few weeks then come once a week when their fitness improves. Some dogs visit us once a week for mobility and senior swimming or just for fun!
Will there be other dogs in the pool with my dog?
No, you and your dog have exclusive use of the pool enclosure for up to ½ hour (you may book a longer session if you wish). This makes our Hydrotherapy centre a great place to exercise dogs that may be uncomfortable around other dogs.
Can I bring more than one dog to my appointment?
For rehabilitation or introductory swims we only allow one dog in the pool at a time. For other swim programs there may be a possibility of swimming more than one dog at a time, after each dog’s initial introductory swim.
Is swimming in a hydrotherapy pool the same as taking my dog to the beach, creek or river?
No, we provide safe, controlled swimming in warm, clean water. Our pool is heated to an ideal temperature for rehabilitation and conditioning swimming. Swimming in warm water allows the muscles to work more efficiently. Cold water swimming constricts blood vessels close to the skin restricting blood flow to the muscles.How does my dog enter the pool?
Your dog walks into the water via a wide non-slip ramp. We do not employ the use of a harness or hoist system. Canine life jackets are provided to aid in confidence and to support your dog in the water if needed.
My dog is not confident in the water and does not like swimming, how can you help?
Many dogs that visit our hydrotherapy centre are not “water dogs”. Some can take a few sessions before they find their confidence and start to enjoy their swims. We have found that many of these same ‘non water dogs’ soon turning into real water babies! Your dog will be gently guided into the water wearing a life jacket. We take our time to gain your dogs trust and confidence and try and make swimming with us a positive experience.
Does my dog need to be vaccinated?
Yes, please bring your vaccination certificate on your first appointment. If you and your vet have your dog on an alternative vaccination protocol, please ring us to discuss.
Can I feed my dog prior to swimming?
Please do not feed your dog for at least 3 hours prior to swimming and 1 hour after swimming.
Are there any conditions you would not recommend hydrotherapy for?
Yes, open wounds, bitches in season, infectious or contagious conditions such as gastric upsets, kennel cough, ear, eye or skin infections, heart conditions, epilepsy, or bleeding.
Can I swim with my dog?
There may be an option to move toward owner assisted swims. One person per dog only. This will be discussed with you during your dog’s first appointment. If your dog is not comfortable with being handled by others, please ring to discuss your options for being included in our swimming programs.
No persons under the age of 18 are allowed in the pool. Please do not ask us if children can swim in the pool as refusal may offend.
Does my dog require rinsing after their swim?
Yes, shower facilities are provided in the pool enclosure for rinsing off only. We also offer a combination swim/bath package if you would like to shampoo your dog and use our DIY dog wash facilities (although it is not necessary to shampoo your dog after every swim).
What do I need to bring?
- Your dog!
- Your dogs leash
- Your dogs vaccination certificate for their initial swim
- Towels (we do have towels for hire)
- Your dog’s favourite toy (we provide a good selection of pool toys onsite)
What should I do when we first arrive?
Please toilet your dog! Even if your dog went at home it is a good idea to toilet them on arrival as car journeys can be very exciting! Please pick up after your dog, there is a rubbish bin for waste outside the main door.
If your dog defecates in the pool there will be a fouling fee as it means we will have to shut the pool down in order to sanitise it.
Please do not allow your dog to toilet inside our hydrotherapy and rehabilitation centre.
Bring your dog in on a leash and under control. We have an on-leash policy and no dogs are allowed off leash until otherwise directed by a staff member. Your dog may be friendly but, not all dogs are comfortable with other dogs approaching them.
Giving your dog a good brush to remove loose hair before their swim will be greatly appreciated.
What if I have to cancel?
We understand that sometimes appointments may need to be rescheduled. We would appreciate at least 24 hours notice.
