Post-surgical
Dog Swimming for Post-Operative Rehabilitation
Weeks of restricted exercise cost a dog an enormous amount of muscle. Private 30-minute sessions in a heated indoor pool at Bretherton, Lancashire.
WHAT IT IS
Post-Operative Rehabilitation in plain English
The conditioning phase after orthopaedic or soft-tissue surgery, once the wound has healed and the surgeon is happy for controlled exercise to increase.
We are a canine swimming and hydro pool, not a veterinary practice — this page explains how our sessions fit alongside the care your vet provides.
WHY THE POOL HELPS
Why warm water suits this problem
Weeks of restricted exercise cost a dog an enormous amount of muscle. Swimming lets you put that muscle back at a rate the repair can tolerate, because the water — not the leg — is taking the weight.
RECOMMENDED SESSION
We'd start with the Swim Coach session
Usually weekly through the rebuilding block, tapering as the dog returns to normal exercise.
We build by minutes and lengths, and we go at the surgeon's pace. Nothing about the pool shortens a healing timeline.
WHAT OWNERS NOTICE
Signs owners mention when they call us
HOW IT WORKS
What the water is actually doing
YOUR FIRST VISIT
What the first session looks like
Very short — often only a handful of supported lengths. We would far rather you leave thinking that was easy than have a sore dog the next day.
30 minutes
Arrive 10 minutes early
28–32°C water
Indoor, private pool
Towel & dryer
Included every visit
Before you book
We do not swim dogs with unhealed wounds, stitches or drains, and we need written clearance from the treating vet or surgeon before the first session.
For post-operative rehabilitation we need written clearance from your vet or surgeon before the first session.
QUESTIONS WE GET ASKED
Post-Operative Rehabilitation: your questions
What clearance do you need?
Written confirmation from your vet or surgeon that your dog is cleared for hydrotherapy or swimming, plus any restrictions they want us to work within.
When is it too early?
While there are stitches, a drain, an open or weeping wound, or any active infection. Pool water and healing incisions do not mix.
Do you provide veterinary rehabilitation?
We are a canine swimming and hydro pool, not a veterinary practice. We provide the exercise; your vet or physio directs the clinical plan.
Tell us about your dog's post-operative rehabilitation
Send us the details and your vet's advice and we'll tell you honestly whether swimming is the right fit — or call 07359 881320.
What Happens Next?
- 1. We review your enquiry
- 2. We call or text to confirm
- 3. Bring your dog and a towel!
Open 7 days · Pompian Brow Farm, Bretherton, PR26 9AQ