Cheryl Burke, DVM, CCRP
Christine Rico, VT, CCRP
Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioners

Therapeutic swimming is a valuable tool to help post-operative patients regain muscle strength and normal joint function. Dogs suffering from degenerative joint disease (arthritis) will similarly benefit from increased strength and flexibility. We offer supervised swimming for well, non-surgical patients, and aquatic therapy for post-operative patients referred by their veterinarians. Our heated 18' X 6' pool is 4' deep and equipped with a large filtration system as well as an ionizer for bacterial control. The pool pH, filters and chemicals are maintained vigilantly to provide a safe environment for your pet and the therapy staff. We offer a temperature controlled drying cage that will ensure that a dry pet leaves our facility. A large viewing window allows the pet owner to observe their pet's therapy session.
 

We have installed the first underwater treadmill for dogs in Maryland. Animal therapy experts agree that the underwater treadmill is the very best way to rehabilitate many orthopedic and neurologic injuries. The patient receives all of the benefits of warm water swimming plus the added benefit of controlled weight bearing. With our uniquely designed facility, we are able to provide support and therapy for even large breed quadriplegic patients. We suggest that dogs scheduled for elective orthopedic procedures such as femoral head osteoectomy, total hip replacements, repairs of patella luxations, and surgeries to correct medial coronoid disease, would benefit from one or two therapy sessions prior to their surgical procedure. We staff our aquatic therapy facility to absolutely protect the health and well being of the patient. We have a therapist in the pool with the pet and one or two assistants as necessary to safely mange a post-operative patient in and out of the pool without injury.
 

At the initial consultation, post surgical aquatic therapy patients will have a therapy plan designed for them. For many routine surgical procedures, we can recommend a fixed number of sessions. For non-routine procedures or for patients with multiple orthopedic or neurologic issues, we will set goals and a timeline then adjust homework and therapy work accordingly.

In cooperation with the referring veterinarian, we may suggest Medications to control discomfort in the therapy patient, especially if that discomfort is preventing good use of the affected limbs.

Before Aquatic Therapy we require:

• Proof of current vaccination for Rabies and Bordetella
• Proof of current vaccination or titer for distemper, parvo, and adenovirus
• Approval from your veterinarian and a statement attesting to your pet's overall health including all known medical condition
• A physical examination by the veterinarian on duty prior to the first swim
• A signed Release Form