Neurological

Dog Swimming for Degenerative Myelopathy

Supported swimming to help maintain condition in dogs with DM.

Enquire about a session 07359 881320

WHAT OWNERS NOTICE

How degenerative myelopathy tends to show up

scuffed nails on the hind feet

swaying back end

crossing back legs when turning

difficulty rising

no obvious pain

WHAT IT IS

Degenerative Myelopathy in plain English

A progressive, non-painful disease of the spinal cord seen most often in German Shepherds and other large breeds, causing gradual loss of hind-limb coordination and strength.

HOW IT WORKS

In the pool with degenerative myelopathy

Hind-limb movement in a medium that supports the body weight

Maintains upper-body and core condition as the back end weakens

Keeps a dog exercising when land walks become difficult or unsafe

Warm water is comfortable for dogs that are losing the ability to regulate posture

WHY THE POOL HELPS

Degenerative Myelopathy and warm water

The disease itself cannot be reversed, and we will not pretend otherwise. What swimming can do is maintain hind-limb muscle and general fitness for as long as possible, which affects how well a dog copes day to day.

YOUR FIRST VISIT

A first degenerative myelopathy swim

Assisted entry with two people if needed, jacket fitted, coach supporting the hindquarters. Short swim, long warm-up and careful drying.

RECOMMENDED SESSION

Swim Coach for degenerative myelopathy

Regular and gentle — often fortnightly, adjusted as the condition progresses.

Success here looks like a dog holding condition for longer, not a dog getting better.

£40 · 30 minutesCheck availability

Before you book

This is a progressive condition. Sessions are about maintaining quality of life and mobility, not slowing the disease. We will be honest with you about when swimming stops being kind.

Written vet clearance needed (degenerative myelopathy).

QUESTIONS WE GET ASKED

Degenerative Myelopathy: questions

Will swimming slow down DM?

There is no evidence that any exercise stops the disease. Maintaining muscle and fitness does help a dog cope with the weakness for longer, which is why many vets support continued controlled exercise.

My dog can barely stand — can they still come?

Talk to us and to your vet first. We can support a dog in the water, but there is a point where the handling on the way in and out is more stress than the swim is worth.