A comparison of apparent neck and back angles before, during and after canine hydrotherapy

Abstract

Research examining canine hydrotherapy is distinctly lacking despite the increasing use of hydrotherapy as a rehabilitation tool and as part of a fitness programme. Due to this paucity of research, the aim of this study was to examine differences in apparent neck and back angles of dogs both before, during and after hydrotherapy sessions. Anecdotally, these are the anatomical locations where concern of injury risk lies. Thirty-one dogs were filmed trotting both prior to and post participation in hydrotherapy as well as during the hydrotherapy session. Data were then analysed using Dartfish software. There was no significant difference in the neck angle of the dogs between swimming and trotting (P=0.859) however, dogs had a significantly greater back angle when swimming compared to trotting (P=0.05). The use of buoyancy aids during hydrotherapy, showed no significant difference in neck or back angles compared with no buoyancy aids. This study begins to provide evidence on the effect of hydrotherapy on canine kinematics. It can be used to inform rehabilitation and fitness regimes for dogs with the aim to improve the long-term health and welfare of dogs.