Swim your dog back to full fitness
Barbara Levitt
Dog: Pippa
Area: Hartlepool
Pippa is a six year old West Highland terrier. When she was six months old she broke her left hind leg whilst having a boisterous playing session with her sister in the garden. The break was on the growth plates of the bone, which has slightly effected the growth of her hind leg.
Over time Pippa developed the occasional limp, which got progressively worse and resulted in a constant limp and wasted muscle on the leg. She was also put on a daily dose of medication to relieve the pain. Of course this had other effects on Pippa; she could not go for her beloved walks or play chase in the garden with anyone who would play with her. She became very lethargic and just lost interest in most things. The vet suggested surgery to try and correct the damaged leg, but this was not a guaranteed remedy. The other alternative was to try hydrotherapy. We looked around for the best and found Butterwick. Mark was very welcoming and showed us around the facilities, not only the pool but the kennels as well. He was very understanding of our concerns and explained the program he would put Pippa on, which was a gradual build up of time starting with one minute in the pool and then one minute rest. This time would gradually be increased as and when Mark felt that Pippa was ready to take on the extra time. At first Pippa was apprehensive of the pool, but put on a brave front and with Marks help overcame her fears. She goes every week and the apprehension is now replaced with excitement in going to see Mark and going for her swim. Pippa is no longer limping or on any medication. The muscles in her hind leg are now recovered and she has regained the energy and playfulness that was missing, but most importantly she is not in pain. Pippa is now back to her happy playful, healthy self and thoroughly enjoys her sessions in the pool.
We are very grateful to Mark for the help he has given us and we highly recommend not only the hydro-pool but the kennels and the cattery to everyone. The facilities are kept and maintained to a high level and everyone is friendly and helpful.