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How to prepare for the first hydrotherapy session

Published on Monday, 12 October 2026

Meal, walk, towel, health record: what to plan before the first walk in the water.

Before you leave

• No large meal in the two hours before the session.
• A short walk so your dog relieves itself before coming in.
• Its towel and its health record.
• If your vet has given you a referral or a surgical report, bring it along.

During the session

The first session (45 minutes, assessment included) is mainly about getting used to it: the tank is empty and then only slightly filled, with rewards. The dog keeps its paws on the floor, the water rises gradually and there is never any forced swimming. You are welcome in the room: you see the progress and learn the exercises to repeat at home.

After the session

After drying, a dog remains a little damp: keep a blanket in the car. You leave with two or three simple instructions for home.