Wellsprings-K9 licensed dog massage

Providing massage and hydrotherapy since 1995

Wellsprings-K9 Spa, the Very First Licensed Massage Therapy and Swim Therapy Pool for Dogs in the U.S. and Canada, provides massage and hydrotherapy to dogs of all breeds, sizes, and ages. Veterinarians are enthusiastic about the services Wellsprings-K9 provides, see their comments on the testimonials page.

Why?

Swimming allows animals to increase strength and regain lost range of motion without the pain experienced on land. Earlier return to activity after surgery can be initiated since there is little/no stress on the joints while in the water. Deep water swimming facilitates full use of the hind legs-vs-partial use as seen with underwater treadmills. Since they are weight bearing on a treadmill they will use their legs only as they do when walking, using very little of their full range of motion. Specifically, our swimming therapy...

• Encourages neuromuscular reeducation

• Keeps elderly dogs active and prevents weight bearing injuries

• Improves cardiovascular fitness and overall conditioning

• Encourages physical activities and use of the whole body

• Helps control weight

• Increases range of motion

• Eases stiff and achy joints

• Develops and maintains muscle tone

• Develops strength and flexibility

Although most dogs can benefit from some form of body work and swimming, not all take to the water immediately (even some of the water breeds) and need to be slowly and gradually introduced to the indoor pool. The water in our pool is kept at a therapeutic range of 90 to 92 degrees Fahrenheit. This helps relax the dog and his muscles. The dog slowly steps down the steps in the pool and acclimates. For water fearful dogs we cradle them and walk slowly into the pool, or sit on the steps with them until they are ready to go further. For dogs that are too heavy to carry they are placed in a specially designed lift that lowers them into the water. For some of the very fearful or physically challenged dogs flotation life vests are used.

A positive, fun experience is important while in the pool. We are in the water with your dog the whole time, and balls, toys and treats are provided.

Swim therapy and Wellness Massage is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis and treatment from your Veterinarian.

There is far more hip and knee flexion (bending) and extension (straightening) when they have no contact with a surface. Swimming strokes are much faster than walking/trotting and ROM is better; therefore we see a much more dramatic increase in muscle mass and strength with swimming. The rapid rate of recovery we see with deep water swimming makes it the treatment choice for our clients. We are also able to do various manual techniques during the workout since we are in the water with the dog.

Video clips

The first clip below shows Sheila working in her pool with two of her dog patients, demonstrating how canine hydrotherapy and massage helps dogs walk again after paralysis, and regain quality of life.

The second clip shows Sheila working with one of the many Police K9 Officers she has helped get back to work chasing and catching the bad guys. This clip is copyright King5 TV’s Evening Magazine program and is used with permission.