In this episode of Tuesday Talks with Ruby Reese, Killian is joined by Claire O'Donnell, veterinary physiotherapist and owner of the Canine Clinic in Cork, for a deep dive into clinical hydrotherapy for dogs.

Claire explains how hydrotherapy differs from ordinary swimming, breaking down the properties of water - buoyancy, resistance, hydrostatic pressure and warmth - that make it such a powerful rehabilitation environment. She covers the most common conditions she treats, from cruciate repairs and hip dysplasia to spinal conditions, soft tissue injuries, weight management and age-related mobility issues, and walks through what a typical session looks like from start to finish.

The conversation also explores the growing case for preventative care, the parallels between human and canine rehabilitation, and how hydrotherapy can sometimes help dogs avoid surgery altogether - as it did for Killian's own dog, Ruby.

A practical and eye-opening episode for any dog guardian curious about what hydrotherapy really involves.

Websites & Social Media

The Canine Clinic

Website: thecanineclinic.com

Instagram: @thecanineclinicandspa

Ruby Reese

Website: ruby-reese.ie

Instagram: @rubyreeseofficial

dognutrition.ie

Website: dognutrition.ie

Instagram: @dognutrition.ie

Please Note: In the interest of keeping episodes conversational and entertaining we will make broad generalisations that may not reflect you, your situation or your pet. If you have any concerns please consult a certified professional who will assess your individual needs.

Chapter List

00:00 Introduction and summer update

03:55 Welcome back to Claire O'Donnell of the Canine Clinic

04:11 Guest introduction - physiotherapy, hydrotherapy and the therapeutic dog spa

05:03 What is clinical hydrotherapy and how does it differ from swimming?

08:14 The properties of water that make it an effective rehabilitation environment

11:02 Growing awareness of canine physiotherapy and hydrotherapy

12:14 The parallels between human and canine rehabilitation

14:24 The most common conditions treated with hydrotherapy

18:12 Hydrotherapy for senior dogs and weight management cases

18:50 The value of pre-operative hydrotherapy

19:45 Ruby's story - avoiding knee surgery through hydrotherapy

23:07 What a typical hydrotherapy session looks like from start to finish

30:21 Electrotherapies - laser and pulsed electromagnetic therapy

32:34 Common misconceptions about hydrotherapy

34:50 Hydrotherapy as strength and conditioning, not just rehabilitation

35:20 Closing thoughts and thank you