RA Canine Therapist is a new purpose-built canine hydrotherapy centre in Rettendon Common, Essex. For small to medium sized dogs.
Our Hydrotherapists are degree level qualified, insured and IRVAP/ICH and NARCH members. We complete 25 hours of continual professional development per year.
We work alongside veterinarians, physiotherapists and other rehabilitation professionals to ensure your dog gets the most effective treatment programme that is tailored to their specific needs.
Providing best quality services for your pets
Rebecca has been around dogs and horses from a very young age. In 2017 she opened her successful dog training business. Then in 2019 she decided to train as a hydrotherapist and enrolled onto a degree at Writtle University College. She has since graduated with a first class in BSc (Hons) Canine Therapy, completed a level 3 certificate in small animal hydrotherapy, become IRVAP and ICH registered and completes a minimum of 20 hours continual professional development. Rebecca has a particular interest in dog arthritis.
What if my dog does not like water?
We are used to helping nervous dogs into the water. Initial sessions are taken slowly at the dogs pace and we use treats and toys to help them be at ease. We can also have buoyancy jackets that can help nervous dogs become more confident in the water. However, if a dog gets too stressed at any point the hydrotherapist has the right to stop the session.
Is the water warm?
The water is heated to between 28 and 30 degrees, which is the optimum temperature for the dog to gain therapeutic benefits.
Why do you need vet consent?
As per the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, all therapists must work under veterinary referral. This ensures the dog is suitable for hydrotherapy and the hydrotherapist is aware of any relevant medical history. We can organise the consent with your vet.
Prices
Initial Assessment
All dogs for hydrotherapy and massage therapy will need to undergo an initial assessment. Roughly 90 mins.
- Gait Analysis
- Palpation analysis
- Range of motion analysis
- Introduction to therapy (massage or hydrotherapy)
- Therapy program will be developed for your dog
Hydrotherapy
30 min session in pool
- Small to medium dogs only
- Reassessment of gait, palpation and range of motion
- Pool swim with qualified hydrotherapist following your dogs therapy plan
- Rinse and rough dry after swim
Massage Therapy
30 min massage therapy session
- Reassessment of gait, palpation and range of motion
- Massage therapy session following your dogs therapy plan with a qualified massage therapist
Complete Rehabilitation
1 hour total session of both hydrotherapy and massage therapy
- Reassessment of gait, palpation and range of motion
- Massage therapy session followed by a hydrotherapy session in the pool with qualified therapist
- Rinse and rough dry after swim
Arthritic Clinic Initial Consultation
All dogs that are new to the arthritis clinic will have an initial consultation which is a one to one session. Please allow 90 mins.
- Welcome Pack – includes lots of information on supporting your arthritic dog
- Pain Assessment
- Body Condition Score
- Nutritional Guidance
- Exercise Guidance
- Musculoskeletal Assessment
- Individual Support and Advice
Gait Analysis
The Gait Analysis done either online or at our clinic with a full report of findings.
- Gait analysis online or in the clinic
- Full report of findings
- Individual support and advice
