Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (RCHs) are required to obtain either a letter of referral, or a signed form giving permission to treat with hydrotherapy, from the animal's veterinary surgeon. No dog will receive hydrotherapy treatment without this.

Clients may contact hydrotherapy centres direct but in every case, even for a 'fitness' swim, they will be informed that their vet will be contacted for background information and to obtain permission for hydrotherapy treatment.

In cases where there are first opinion and referral vet(s) and/or physiotherapists involved in the animal's care, all parties will be contacted for clinical histories and reports. This is to ensure that the hydrotherapist has a complete picture of the animal's condition, behaviour, clinical history and any cautions or contraindications for hydrotherapy.

For Veterinary Practitioners

To make a referral use our online application form.

For paper-based referrals, please download the form to complete with the owner's, patient's and veterinary practitioner's information, and pass to Aqua Canis with the referral:

Before any therapy packages are paid for, we want to ensure the patient is familiar and comfortable with the environment and treatment. This may mean 1 to 3 introduction visits. It is always best practice to introduce the patient to the environment and staff even if very confident.

Please do call and discuss any concerns or questions you may have.