Baloo is a gentle and affectionate Bernedoodle who began his journey at the Canine Fitness Centre after being diagnosed with bilateral hip dysplasia at just 7 months old. His owner noticed signs such as a “clicking” sound when he got up from rest, along with a tendency to sit with his hind legs stretched behind him. While he wasn’t showing lameness or discomfort initially, a proactive decision was made to start conservative management early—with a focus on physiotherapy and hydrotherapy.
Baloo, now over a year old, has made fantastic progress in both strength and confidence thanks to his weekly underwater treadmill sessions followed by fortnightly pool swims. His transformation has been physical—and emotional—as he’s gone from a shy, nervous pup to a dog who bounds into the centre excitedly, greeting everyone with joy.
Clinical Presentation & Challenges
Initial assessments revealed:
- Mild lumbosacral sway with slightly reduced right hip extension
- Moderate muscle tightness in the back and shoulders
- Atrophy in the gluteals and hamstrings
- Mild fasciculations (muscle twitching) in the spinal muscles
- Reluctance on tight turns and non-square sitting posture
His goals were clear: to build strength, reduce compensatory muscle strain, and maintain mobility so he could enjoy long walks and playtime as a young, growing dog.
Treatment Plan
Baloo’s structured treatment included:
Underwater Treadmill Therapy
- Focused on hindlimb engagement and weight-bearing
- Used toys, treats, and frequent rest breaks to encourage participation
- Aided in improving muscle mass, stride length, and posture
- Incorporated massage and weight shifting exercises between reps
Pool Hydrotherapy Sessions
- Started once confidence had improved in treadmill sessions
- Used for low-impact full-body conditioning
- Included 10+ swim lengths per session, adjusting support as needed
- Ear floats were added when Baloo showed sensitivity to water in ears
- Monitored carefully to prevent overexcitement or leaping over the pool edge!
Home Exercise Programme
- Daily cavaletti pole work and slalom exercises to develop control and coordination
- Sit-to-stand reps to build gluteal strength
- Massage techniques taught to owner to relax tight spinal muscles
- Walk routine adjusted to shorter, more frequent walks to reduce joint stress
Behavioural Journey
Initially nervous, Baloo would try to hide or even run away from unfamiliar therapists. Thanks to the gentle, consistent approach from his hydrotherapist Becca, Baloo gradually built trust and began to relax. Over time, his progress was incredible:
- Less anxious and more engaged each session
- Began greeting staff confidently, even those he hadn’t met before
- Now bounds into the centre, tail wagging, looking for cuddles
- Becomes visibly excited for his post-swim warm shower—a part of the routine he thoroughly enjoys. His ability to keep up with daily walks and enjoy being an active young dog has improved dramatically. Most importantly, he now associates therapy with fun and reward, making ongoing treatment a positive part of his routine.
Baloo’s case is a shining example of how early intervention and a holistic, gentle approach to physiotherapy can support a young dog through a lifelong condition like hip dysplasia. With the expert guidance of the Canine Fitness Centre team, Baloo hasn’t just gained strength—he’s gained confidence, happiness, and freedom.
“Baloo now bounces into his sessions with a smile and cuddles to spare. His hydrotherapy has helped him enjoy life like any young dog should.”
