Reason for Hydrotherapy

Post Surgery Cruciate Ligament Disease

Smudge started canine hydrotherapy sessions following cruciate surgery. The cranial cruciate ligament is a band of tough fibrous tissue that attaches the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone), preventing the tibia from shifting forward relative to the femur. It also helps to prevent the stifle (knee) joint from over-extending or rotating. West Highland White Terriers are a breed predisposed to cruciate ligament rupture and unfortunately for Smudge this happened to him. He had a successful operation however due to rest time his muscle had wasted and his vet suggested hydrotherapy to build his muscle and fitness levels. Smudge has been having underwater treadmill sessions which have worked brilliantly. His owner is happy that he can run, jump and play like he could before the ligament rupture.