Do I need to make an appointment?
Yes you do, please call 01344 222299. or email enquiries@therapaws.co.uk. A signed vet referral form will be required before swimming on any of the programmes, but we will obtain this from your vet on your behalf.
How long will each session last?
The Initial appointment is 1 hour, which consists of a 15 minute Initial call prior to a 45 minute Initial Assessment at the centre. Initially, your dog may not swim for the whole session until fitness levels increase. Sessions thereafter will be 30 minutes with 20 minutes swimming time. Remember that 15 mins of swimming is the equivalent to 1 hour of running but without the impact on joints.
Sessions in the water treadmill are either 30 or 45 minutes, dependent on the rehabilitation that your dog requires.
What happens if I arrive late for my appointment?
If there is a scheduled booking directly following your dog's booking, your dog’s session will be shortened to meet the completion time.
How many sessions will my dog need?
Please give us a call if you are running late or unable to make your appointment.
If you are more than 15 minutes late we are unable to go ahead with the appointment, as there may be a scheduled booking directly following yours, and there would not be enough time to complete the treatment effectively.
There will still be a charge for that session, if the appointment is missed or that you are more than 15 minutes late. Charges may be considered for exceptional circumstances so please do let us know.
Please see our terms and conditions for more details.
Will there be other dogs in the pool with my dog?
No, you and your dog have exclusive use of the pool enclosure for the duration of your session. This makes Therapaws a great place exercise and rehabilitate dogs that may be uncomfortable around other dogs.
Can I bring more than one dog to my appointment?
We allow only one dog in the pool at a time for safety reasons and to abide by the CHA regulations. A hydrotherapist will always be in the pool with your dog. We may allow you to bring other dogs to the appointment, but not be in the pool.
Is swimming in a hydrotherapy pool the same as taking my dog to the river or beach?
No, Therapaws provides safe, controlled swimming in warm, clean water. Our pool is heating to an ideal temperature for rehabilitation and conditioning swimming which 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 non-slip ramp. We do not employ the use of a hoist system. We use canine float jackets or harnesses to aid in confidence and to support your dog in the water.
My dog is not confident in the water and does not like swimming, how can you help?
From past experience, dogs that are not 'water dogs' can take a few sessions before they find their confidence and start to enjoy their swims. Many of the same 'non water dogs' soon learn to enjoy it. Your dog will be gently introduced to the water and we take our time to gain your dogs trust and confidence and try to make swimming at Therapaws a positive experience.
Does my dog need to vaccinated?
All dogs must have current vaccinations (subject to referring vet contra-indication). Homeopathic vaccinations are accepted.
Can I feed my dog prior to swimming?
Please do not feed your dog for at least 2 hours prior to swimming and at least 1 hour after swimming.
Are there any circumstances where you would not be able to swim?
Yes, open wounds, bitches in season, infectious or contagious conditions such as gastric upsets, kennel cough, ear, eye or skin infections, some heart conditions or neurological & spinal conditions.