This depends on the type of session your dog is attending.

Learn to Swim / Fun & Fitness Sessions
If your dog has no known health concerns, you’ll simply need to complete and sign our New Client Learn to Swim / Fun & Fitness Waiver, available on our website under Forms or at the centre prior to your first session.

Rehabilitation & Clinical Hydrotherapy
For rehabilitation, a signed Vet Health Clearance Form is required before your dog can commence hydrotherapy.
This ensures your dog is medically suitable for water-based therapy and allows us to provide safe, effective, and appropriate treatment.

Hydrotherapy is not suitable for every dog or every condition. Your veterinarian understands your dog’s medical history and will consider any cautions or contraindications before approving hydrotherapy.

This process protects you, your companion, our staff, and other animals, and provides peace of mind knowing your dog is being supported by both your vet and a qualified hydrotherapist.

Before coming to Water Walkies Hydrotherapy Centre;

• Give your dog a good brush to remove loose hair

• Do not feed your dog 2 - 3 hours before swimming and 1 - 2 hour after swimming

• Toilet your dog before swimming/treadmill session

• Have a vet complete and sign the Vet Referral Form is this is your first visit

• Leave on time so you can arrive at Water Walkies Hydrotherapy 5 – 10 minutes early to avoid delays. As it will be your dog’s swim that will be cut short if your dog is not ready to swim at their designated time

Timing depends on why your dog is attending hydrotherapy.

• For rehabilitation or medical conditions, your veterinarian will advise when hydrotherapy is appropriate based on your dog’s individual condition and recovery stage.

• Dogs attending Learn to Swim or Fun & Fitness sessions (with no health concerns) can commence once the waiver has been completed.

After surgery or fractures
Depending on the procedure, hydrotherapy may begin anywhere from a few days after stitches or staples are removed (once the skin has healed), to 4–8 weeks post-surgery.

Vaccinations
Puppies can begin hydrotherapy once their vaccinations are complete and they are cleared to mix safely with other dogs.

That’s completely okay — many dogs are unsure at first.

Our therapists work gently, patiently, and at your dog’s pace. Some dogs take a little time to build confidence, and not all dogs are natural swimmers.

Certain breeds require extra care and close supervision in the water, including:

• Brachycephalic breeds (short-muzzled dogs)

• Boxers

• English Bulldogs

• French Bulldogs

• Pugs

A positive first experience is essential. With encouragement, reassurance, and professional support, most dogs grow in confidence and comfort over time.

Beach Swimming

• Movement cannot be controlled — waves, uneven sand, and unstable footing can aggravate injuries.

• Cold water causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing circulation to muscles.

• Blood is redirected to protect vital organs, increasing the risk of muscle cramping, stiffness, or further injury.

Hydrotherapy

• Water temperature is thermally controlled at 28–30°C.

• Water quality is monitored and tested at least twice daily.

• Warm water improves circulation, helping muscles relax and increasing oxygen and nutrient delivery.

• This reduces pain, stiffness, and swelling — particularly beneficial for dogs with arthritis or recovering from injury.

• Sessions are fully supervised by a qualified therapist, allowing controlled, purposeful movement.

Hydrotherapy is about quality, not duration.

Each session is tailored based on factors such as:

• Injury or condition

• Breed and body type

• Age

• Fitness level

Dogs regulate body temperature differently from humans. They cool down primarily through panting, which can be less effective in warm water. This means dogs can overheat or fatigue quickly, even during short swim intervals.

Thick coats can also trap heat, making recovery slower.

Our therapists remain in the water to closely monitor:

• Behaviour

• Breathing and exertion

• Body temperature

Rest periods are built into every session to ensure safety and maximise therapeutic benefit. We always prioritise your dog’s comfort, enjoyment, and long-term progress.

All dogs initially wear a float coat for buoyancy, safety, and assessment.

This allows the hydrotherapist to:

• Evaluate swimming technique and endurance

• Support proper body alignment

• Build confidence in the water

Depending on your dog’s condition and progress, they may transition to:

• A harness only, or

• Bare swimming

This decision is always made at the discretion of the hydrotherapist, based on what is safest and most beneficial for your dog.

Please do not feed your dog for at least 3 hours before their session.
We also recommend waiting 1–2 hours after exercise before feeding.

Please ensure your dog has toileted before entering the centre. Waste bags are available at the front counter.

This is essential to prevent toileting or vomiting accidents in the pool or treadmill. If an accident occurs, equipment must be shut down to be hygienically cleaned, refilled, rebalanced, and reheated, resulting in cancelled sessions for other clients.

If this occurs, a $100 cleaning fee will apply in addition to your session fee.

Yes. Owners are welcome to remain with their dog during sessions. Some dogs find this reassuring, while others focus better with the therapist — we’ll always advise what works best for your dog.

This varies depending on your dog’s condition, goals, and response to therapy. Some dogs benefit from short-term support, while others attend ongoing wellness or maintenance sessions. Your therapist will discuss recommendations with you after assessment.

Mild fatigue or stiffness can occur, especially in early sessions — similar to starting a new exercise routine. This usually settles within 24–48 hours. If you notice anything concerning, please contact us.

Yes. Hydrotherapy is particularly beneficial for senior dogs as it allows low-impact exercise that supports mobility, joint health, and muscle strength while minimising strain.

• Collar and lead

• Towel (optional — we provide drying facilities)

• Any relevant vet documentation

• A calm mindset — we’ll take care of the rest