What is hydrotherapy?
Veterinary Health Centre, Old Forge Court 17a Moor Street, Chepstow NP16 5DB
Hydrotherapy is a form of physiotherapy carried out in water. It strengthens muscles, joints, ligaments and tendons without feeling any of the shocks they would feel on land. The resistance of the water makes the muscles work harder and therefore become stronger.
We use an underwater treadmill – so your dog (or cat!) will be walking through water rather than swimming.
Would my pet benefit from hydrotherapy?
rehabilitation after spinal or orthopaedic surgery, but is also useful for joint conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia. We also recommend hydrotherapy for old and stiff dogs, and as an aid to weight loss when diet and land- based exercise are failing to show results.
What will happen in the sessions?
The initial one hour consultation will assess the pets mobility and strength, and set goals for treatment. The first step is getting your pet used to the water – we take our time in order to keep them as calm as possible. Most dogs soon get the hang
of it, and love coming to their sessions!
Our Hydrotherapists, Joanna and Clare are happy to talk with you, if you would like to find out more – contact us here.
VETERINARY CARE ASSISTANT- CHEPSTOW
Sunday Emergencies - From January 2025 *Update: After March 30th we will revert back to using Vetsnow for our out of hours cover on Sundays. Please call our Chepstow number 01291 625205 & you will be automatically redirected.
Many thanks to the Welsh Government Economy team, for making the following video:
So What's New?
In the past few years, local dog owners have become increasingly aware of the deadly disease - CRGV (or Alabama Rot) which has made an appearance in our area. There have been a total of 11 cases in a 20 mile radius around Chepstow - so whilst the risks are in fact very low; there is a high level of public concern about their beloved pets. Alabama Rot does show a seasonal pattern with most cases occurring between November and May. So far the research has not found the cause but studies suggest muddy woodlands may present a risk. CRGV causes inflammation and blood clots in the vessels of the skin and kidneys. This leads to swollen ulcers on the legs, belly and face and can progress within a few days to kidney failure.
Enjoying the benefits of the Underwater Treadmill
The rules on movement of pet dogs, cats and ferrets between Great Britain and the EU (including Northern Ireland) have changed now that GB is no longer an EU member state. We can no longer issue EU pet passports in the UK. An ANIMAL HEALTH CERTIFICATE is now required, issued up to 10 days before you travel. This AHC is valid for 4 months of onward travel within the EU and can be used to re-enter the UK during this 4 month period. A new AHC is required for each trip to the EU or NI. To return to the UK your pet requires either a valid AHC or an existing EU passport (issued either in the UK or the EU). A new health certificate can be issued in an EU country if necessary. TAPEWORM (Echinococcus multilocularis) treatment is required if travelling to a tapeworm-free country (Northern Ireland, Ireland, Malta and Finland), or on the return to the UK from elsewhere in the EU. This must be given by a vet between 1 and 5 days before arrival in the country. Other requirements for pet travel remain the same: Microchip Vaccinated for rabies, and up to date booster vaccinations Wait at least 21 days after primary rabies vaccination before travel Travel only through designated Travellers' Point of Entry (TPE), with AHC and proof of microchip and rabies vaccination Up to date information is available on the government website:
If you would rather avoid a trip to one of our accident and emergency clinics during autumn.
April is National Pet Month - when the charity of the same name reminds us of the joys and responsibilities of pet ownership. Owning a pet has physical and emotional benefits for the owner, but unfortunately not always for the pet! Their health is entirely dependent on the care-giver, and their understanding of the pet’s needs. In practice we see that even well-loved pets are sometimes missing out, and our job is to help identify when your pet may need some changes in their life! Listed below are National Pet Month’s top tips for Owners- we would love you to come to us for advice on any of these subjects- it’s what we know best! Top Ten Tips for Responsible Pet Ownership: 1. Think carefully before getting a pet and learn about its special requirements. 2. Ensure your pet is sociable and well trained. 3. Provide a nutritious and well balanced diet. 4. Provide suitable housing and bedding. 5. Clean up after your pet and worm it regularly. 6. Protect against disease. 7. Prevent unwanted litters and neuter your pet when appropriate. 8. Groom your pet regularly. 9. Control your pet and ensure it is properly identified. 10. Take out pet insurance for dogs, cats, rabbits and horses to cover against unexpected veterinary fees and third party liability
You can also use our telephone number 01291 625205 and press 1 to be transferred to VetsNow
