Rehabilitation

K9 Rehabilitation and Fitness Center features the Ferno AquaPaws underwater treadmill system. This cutting edge equipment utilizes the properties of water to optimize rehab and conditioning sessions based on the individual needs of the dog. Variables can be adjusted to emphasize protected weight bearing and use of a limb after surgery, or to focus on strengthening, range of motion, or cardiovascular endurance.

Bouyancy of the water effectively diminishes the amount of weight borne on the limbs of the animal while exercising in water.  This allows dogs with painful joints to exercise longer and more safely, and allows earlier use of a limb in dogs that have had orthopedic surgery. 

Resistance of the water provides strengthening benefits and cardiovascular conditioning to the dog utilizing the underwater treadmill. 

Conditioning and fitness programs

Hunting and competition dogs and family companion dogs can utilize the underwater treadmill and other therapeutic exercises for a comprehensive, individualized conditioning program. Exercise in the underwater treadmill is an excellent cross training activity to increase the overall fitness of your canine athlete while decreasing the risk of overuse injury by separating fitness training from skill training.

Weight Loss

It’s estimated that 40 to 50 percent of dogs in the US are overweight.   Obesity is associated with shorter lifespan, diabetes, arthritis and diseases of the heart, liver and kidneys.  K9 Rehab & Fitness Center can work with your dog’s veterinarian to develop an individualized program for safe and healthy weight loss.