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Luna is a bright, bouncy, and determined two-year-old Belgian Malinois who’s turned personal challenge into public inspiration. Her story is one of incredible resilience, commitment to rehabilitation, and the powerful bond between a dog and her dedicated humans. From a life-altering injury at just 19 weeks old to becoming a confident swimmer and a shining example of hydrotherapy success—Luna’s journey is nothing short of remarkable.

A Challenging Start

While playing with another dog as a puppy, Luna sustained a severe break to the ball-and-socket joint in her right hind leg. Initial surgery to pin the break was unfortunately unsuccessful, and at just 7 months old, she was too young for a full hip replacement. Instead, her specialist team opted for a Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO)—a surgical procedure that removes the damaged part of the joint to reduce pain while maintaining mobility.

This decision came with a plan: commit to rehabilitation to give Luna the best possible outcome, while preserving the option of a total hip replacement in the future.

The Road to Recovery Begins

Luna began her rehabilitation at the Wickham Hydrotherapy Centre in October 2023. At first, she tried the underwater treadmill, but as a young pup, she found it overwhelming. Recognising her discomfort, the team transitioned her to pool hydrotherapy, where she flourished.

Each week, Luna grew more confident. Her sessions included a variety of exercises:

• Singles, doubles, and figure-of-eight swims
• Clockwise and anti-clockwise turning practice to strengthen her weaker right side
• Ramp weight-bearing work and rest intervals with massage

Despite early hesitation and a few cheeky panicked moments on the ramp, Luna soon began to bulldoze her way into sessions, tail wagging and eyes on the prize (usually a toy!).

Celebrating Progress

By July 2024, Luna’s specialist confirmed the best news: her recovery had been so successful that a hip replacement was no longer necessary. Her muscle tone, joint stability, and mobility had all dramatically improved—and much of that was thanks to her consistent hydrotherapy.

Even after a brief regression in late 2024 following a separate minor injury and spay recovery, Luna bounced back with determination. Her cheeky Malinois energy, paired with a supportive and knowledgeable rehab team, ensured every challenge was met with a solution.

Luna has even revisited the treadmill recently—this time with a gentle plan in place—and managed brilliantly. Her sessions now offer flexibility to switch between pool and treadmill based on her condition and confidence.

Luna’s story captures the essence of everything hydrotherapy can offer:

• Pain-free, active recovery after orthopaedic surgery
• Confidence building in nervous dogs
• Individualised care tailored to a dog’s emotional and physical needs
• A long-term management plan that evolves as the dog does

She now shares her journey through her Instagram account, @maligator_lunac, inspiring other owners and professionals to explore the benefits of canine hydrotherapy.

“Hydrotherapy has become a highlight of Luna’s week. We never imagined she would recover this well—and now, we want other dog owners to know what’s possible with the right care.”

Whether it’s building strength, overcoming fear, or chasing toys in figure-eights—Luna proves that with determination and support, anything is paw-sible.

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.”

Arnhem, a 9-year-old German Shepherd, has lived a full and adventurous life. He began competing in canicross at just 18 months old, and it was during this early period of high performance that his owner first discovered the Canine Fitness Centre through a leaflet at her local vet. Arnhem’s initial sessions in early 2020 focused on sports dog health and fitness, helping to support his active lifestyle.

In late 2020, following an energetic deer-chasing episode, Arnhem became suddenly reluctant to move the next morning—a stark contrast to his usual tail-wagging, joyful self. A swift veterinary referral and MRI confirmed the diagnosis of Degenerative Lumbosacral Stenosis (DLSS). Arnhem’s physiotherapy sessions shifted from sports conditioning to targeted rehabilitation.

Key Mobility Challenges

Arnhem’s main symptoms include:

• Hind limb stiffness and weakness, particularly on the right side
• Occasional offloading of his right hind limb
• Reduced hind limb engagement, making turning movements difficult
• Postural instability and weight shifts when standing
• Pelvic sway and mild forelimb compensation due to lack of hindlimb control
• Intermittent dragging/scuffing of hind paws, especially on uneven surfaces

Despite these challenges, Arnhem has continued to live life to the full. With the help of regular physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and at-home exercises, he’s been able to enjoy hiking adventures, wild camping, and even some low-key canicross events, right up until his retirement in 2024.

Treatment Plan: Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy

Arnhem’s rehabilitation includes a combination of physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, focusing on nerve stimulation, strength-building, and postural stability.

Physiotherapy Sessions

• Laser Therapy – Applied to lumbar spine, sacroiliac joints, and hips to reduce inflammation and pain
• Massage & Soft Tissue Therapy – Focused on lumbar paraspinals, hip flexors, and triceps to ease muscle tightness
• Balance & Proprioception Work – Using wobble cushions and controlled weight shifts to improve stability
• Range-of-Motion (ROM) Exercises – Encouraging flexibility in stiff joints while avoiding excessive strain
• Sensory Stimulation Techniques – Engaging hindlimbs with cavaletti poles and tactile stimulation to improve limb awareness

Arnhem is well-known at the centre for his enthusiastic (and noisy!) greetings and his unique interpretation of cavaletti exercises—often requiring gentle redirection and a sense of humour from his therapists. His owner jokes that he coined the physio motto: “Be less banana!”

Hydrotherapy: Underwater Treadmill (UWTM)

Although Arnhem struggles with hind limb coordination, hydrotherapy helps by:

• Providing resistance training while reducing joint stress
• Encouraging correct weight-bearing and movement patterns
• Strengthening core and hind limb muscles
• Improving balance and endurance

Session adjustments include:

• Water depth control to optimise support and muscle engagement
• Guidance to prevent hind limb “plaiting” and medial collapse
• Postural corrections during rest breaks to reinforce proper stance

Progress Over Time

Arnhem has made impressive strides throughout his rehabilitation. With consistent commitment to his sessions and home programme, his progress has included:

• Improved hind limb strength and muscle tone, especially in the glutes and hamstrings
• More balanced posture and reduced pelvic sway
• Better coordination and foot placement, particularly during hydrotherapy sessions
• Increased endurance, allowing longer walks and more sustained activity without fatigue
• Maintained flexibility and reduced muscle tension, thanks to massage and laser therapy

Even with a degenerative diagnosis, Arnhem has been able to participate in meaningful activities like wild camping and hiking, all while avoiding significant regression for years.

Recent Developments & Reassessment

In the past several months, Arnhem’s movement patterns began to shift in a way that didn’t align with typical LS progression. A referral to Lumbry Park Veterinary Specialists revealed moderate cervical spinal stenosis at C6-C7, raising the possibility of Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), now under investigation with genetic testing.

Despite these changes, specialists at Lumbry Park remarked on Arnhem’s excellent physical condition, especially considering his diagnosis four years prior—crediting much of this to the consistent physio and hydro regime he’s maintained.

“We’ve been able to maintain Arnhem to a point where he’s lived a full and active lifestyle despite his condition. Physio and hydro really have been life-changing for him.”

Ongoing Care & Future Outlook

Arnhem’s care plan remains focused on keeping him in peak condition, ensuring he’s strong enough to handle potential future interventions and to keep enjoying his daily adventures. His team is ready to adapt treatment based on the results of the genetic test and any emerging symptoms.

Having access to a diverse treatment toolkit and a dedicated rehab team has allowed for a high level of continuity and flexibility, which has been key in managing unexpected flare-ups and maintaining his quality of life.

Arnhem’s journey—from elite canicross competitor to rehab legend—highlights the value of early intervention, structured therapy, and patient-centred care. Thanks to a dedicated rehabilitation team and unwavering owner commitment, Arnhem continues to live life to the fullest, tail wagging and all.

Wesley is an elite agility competitor, having just won into Grade 7. Competing at this level demands top physical condition, so Wesley attends regular physiotherapy and hydrotherapy sessions at the Canine Fitness Centre to maintain peak performance and prevent injuries.

In addition to his agility training, Wesley has low-grade luxating patellas, a condition that can affect knee stability. His sessions not only focus on muscle strength and joint health but also ensure early detection of any changes to his knees.

Managing Performance & Joint Stability

Agility is a high-impact sport requiring:

• Explosive speed & jumping ability
• Quick turns & rapid acceleration/deceleration
• Strong core & hindlimb muscles for stability

Without proper conditioning, agility dogs risk muscle strains, joint injuries, and ligament damage. Wesley’s routine physiotherapy and hydrotherapy help keep him competition-ready and reduce injury risks.

Treatment Plan: Physiotherapy & Hydrotherapy

Wesley’s programme focuses on injury prevention, muscle conditioning, and knee stability.

Physiotherapy Sessions

• Joint Mobilisation & Soft Tissue Work – Relieves muscle tightness and improves flexibility
• Strength Training & Proprioception Drills – Enhances balance and coordination for agility
• Patellar Stability Exercises – Strengthens quadriceps and core muscles to support knee joints
• Stretching & Range-of-Motion Work – Maintains joint flexibility and prevents stiffness

Hydrotherapy: Underwater Treadmill

Despite not being a fan of water, Wesley thrives in hydrotherapy sessions, where the controlled resistance helps him build strength with minimal joint stress.

• Weight-bearing exercises – Encourages even weight distribution to prevent strain on his knees
• Muscle strengthening – Supports hindlimb stability and power
• Gait correction & endurance building – Helps Wesley maintain top form for competitions
• Patellar tracking monitoring – Ensures knees remain stable and functional

Progress & Key Improvements

Wesley’s dedicated treatment plan has led to notable improvements:

• Increased muscle strength – Better stability when landing jumps
• Improved flexibility & movement efficiency – More fluid, powerful strides
• Stronger hindlimb weight-bearing – Less stress on knees
• Reduced patellar instability episodes – Maintaining knee function in competition
• Sustained endurance – Handling agility courses with greater control and speed

His physiotherapists have observed fewer instances of patellar luxation, even after high-impact activities like weaving and sharp turns.

Spreading Awareness of Physiotherapy for All Dogs

Wesley’s journey has made his owner a strong advocate for physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, not just for sporting dogs but for all dogs. By building muscle, maintaining joint health, and improving mobility, these therapies benefit pets of all activity levels.

With continued physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and agility training, Wesley is on track to continue competing at Grade 7 while remaining injury-free. His enthusiasm for his sessions—despite his dislike of water—shows that structured physiotherapy isn’t just essential, it’s enjoyable too!

Wesley’s story highlights the importance of preventative physiotherapy for agility dogs. With expert care from the Canine Fitness Centre, he is staying strong, stable, and ready for competition success. His commitment to conditioning and rehabilitation proves that peak performance comes from both training and proactive care.

Military Working Dog (MWD) Airoton, a German Shepherd, joined the Ministry of Defence (MOD) Guard Service in November 2022 after completing his training at the Defence Animal Training Regiment (DATR). Initially unsure of his new surroundings at Longmoor Training Camp, he quickly settled into his role, though he had to learn some manners along the way!

In December 2023, Airoton started showing signs of lameness in his back legs. A veterinary examination revealed that he had a poorly fitting ball-and-socket joint in his hips, leading to a referral to the Canine Fitness Centre near Petersfield for specialist physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. This case study outlines his journey and the positive impact of these therapies on his mobility and working life.

Diagnosis and Early Symptoms

Airoton’s handlers first noticed he was uncomfortable when walking on harder surfaces. He would shift his weight onto his front legs and show reluctance when extending his back legs. His veterinary assessment confirmed bilateral hip dysplasia, a common condition in larger breeds where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the socket. This can cause pain, stiffness, and long-term mobility issues if left untreated.

Key symptoms included:

• Stiffness and reduced flexibility in his back legs, particularly the left side
• Leaning onto his front legs when standing still
• Shortened stride length and occasional uneven movement
• Mild muscle tightness in his lower back and hips

His treatment plan was designed to help him build strength, improve mobility, and manage any discomfort, allowing him to continue his duties as a working dog.

Treatment Plan

Airoton’s rehabilitation included hydrotherapy sessions using an underwater treadmill and regular physiotherapy to ease muscle tension and build strength. His handlers were also given a home exercise plan to continue his progress between sessions.

Hydrotherapy – Underwater Treadmill Sessions

Water therapy is an excellent way to help dogs exercise without putting too much strain on their joints. The underwater treadmill provided controlled movement, helping Airoton build muscle while reducing the impact on his hips.

Key aspects of his sessions:

• Gradual warm-ups and speed adjustments (starting at 1.4m/s and increasing to 2.4m/s)
• Support to help balance his weight and prevent offloading onto one side
• Encouragement using his favourite Kong toy to keep him focused and engaged
• Careful monitoring of fatigue levels to ensure he wasn’t overworked

At first, Airoton was a little unsure about the treadmill, but he soon got used to it – especially when his Kong was involved! Over time, his coordination improved, and he became more confident in the water.

Physiotherapy & Massage

Alongside hydrotherapy, Airoton had regular physiotherapy sessions to relieve muscle tightness and improve his range of motion. His treatment included:

• Laser therapy to reduce inflammation and discomfort
• Massage to relax tense muscles and improve circulation
• Stretching and passive range-of-motion exercises to improve flexibility
• Strength-building exercises, including balance work and sit-to-stand exercises

His home exercise plan involved daily sessions with his handlers, ensuring his progress continued outside the clinic.

Progress and Improvements

Over the following months, Airoton showed steady improvement in his movement and overall strength. His handlers noticed the following positive changes:

• More fluid movement and better posture
• Increased endurance – he could train for longer without signs of discomfort
• Better weight distribution – no longer leaning forward excessively
• Improved flexibility – particularly in his left hip
• More confidence on different surfaces, including gravel and hard ground

Despite occasional stiffness in colder weather, Airoton remained enthusiastic about his therapy, especially when rewarded with his favourite Kong toy.

Where is Airoton Now?

As of 2025, Airoton continues to be a high-performing Military Working Dog, actively patrolling and taking part in obedience and agility training. His monthly hydrotherapy and physiotherapy sessions help maintain his mobility and prevent further deterioration. Thanks to the dedication of his handlers and the expert care at the Canine Fitness Centre, he has regained his strength and continues to enjoy his role.

His story is a testament to the power of early intervention, structured rehabilitation, and ongoing care in helping dogs with hip dysplasia lead active, fulfilling lives.