There's Nothing Run-of-the-Mill about Our Underwater Treadmill!
Underwater treadmill therapy is frequently recommended as part of canine fitness, physical therapy/rehabilitation, and weight loss programs. Although recreational swimming gets a lot more attention as a popular activity for dogs, underwater treadmill sessions can be both beneficial and fun!
According to Joanne Parisi, AVA, CSCC, 4 Paws Adrift Certified Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach & Swim/Hydrotherapy Coach, a fitness program that incorporates regular underwater treadmill (UWTM) sessions can improve health for all types and breeds of dog with a wide variety of challenges and goals.
Whether for injury recovery, maintaining peak fitness for the canine athlete, preserving health and mobility for aging dogs, or as part of a larger weight-loss effort, once- or twice-a-week UWTM sessions are effective because
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water’s buoyancy reduces impact to help protect joints;
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working against water's resistance builds muscle faster;
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controlled exercise is a great option for injury recovery;
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gentle exercise is perfect for weight loss programs;
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it’s a practical form of therapy that is non-invasive
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UWTM can achieve a high-intensity cardiovascular workout to keep athletic dogs in peak heart and lung condition without the stress on the skeletal system;
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UWTM helps restore freedom of movement and improve mobility with less risk of further wear and tear;
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UWTM preserves and helps increase muscle resulting from lack of activity.
The July-August 2026 issue of the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine includes an article exploring the effectiveness of postoperative underwater treadmill therapy on dogs that have undergone intervertebral disc surgery. The study looked at 17 dogs that received UWTM treatment and found that “dogs receiving underwater treadmill recovered significantly faster….”
A study published in the November 1, 2025 issue of Animal magazine reviewed the records of 50 dogs that received ten UWTM sessions over 5 weeks. The results showed an increase in overall joint mobility, leading to the conclusion that UWTM “may therefore play an important role in helping dogs regain mobility and improve daily functioning.”
Underwater treadmill appointments at 4 Paws Adrift typically last 20-25 minutes. New clients start with an evaluation that includes reviewing the dog’s history, discussing the client’s goals, taking measurements, and finally an introduction to the treadmill. Package discounts are available, with additional discounts for senior dogs eight years old and older.
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References
July-August 2026; Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
November 1, 2025; Animals
