In 2023, a dream became reality when Ashley (Hill) Lansbergen

(Owner, Certified K9 Hydrotherapist & Massage Therapist), opened

Pawtherapy K9 Aquatic & Massage Centre. Located in Hanover Ontario,

the 1100 sq ft. indoor facility offers an above ground, heated Splash Pool,

specifically fabricated for canine use.

Pawtherapy K9 Aquatic & Massage Centre offers a variety of services for our canine clients,

which include:

• Hydrotherapy Swim sessions with a certified Canine Hydrotherapist, whether it be for a dog who is

  recovering from an injury and/or surgery (i.e. cruciate ligament tear), or one who has a chronic

  condition (i.e. hip/elbow dysplasia, arthritis). Hydrotherapy provides a safe, low impact way to

  exercise, which can strengthen/build muscle, reduce inflammation and pain, help with weight loss,

  improve flexibility/range of motion, as well as mentally stimulate and improve the overall

  well-being and longevity of your dog.

• Massage Therapy sessions with a certified Canine Massage Therapist, whether it be for dogs

  recovering from an injury, surgery or a chronic medical condition, rescue dogs or dogs that may

  have anxiety and are overwhelmed by the environment around them, agility dogs or extremely

  active working dogs that may be more prone to injuries, or ones that just simply love

  the touching techniques used to calm and relax the body. Massage therapy is a

  holistic/complimentary modality, which offers many beneficial effects including: improved

  circulation of blood and lymph fluid, reduction of inflammation and can provide pain relief through

  endorphin release, improved trust, mood and body awareness, improved flexibility/range of

  motion, improved muscle efficiency increased athletic performance, shortened recovery from

  illness, injury or surgery, emotional calming and injury prevention.

• Kinesiology Taping sessions for dogs that may require an additional therapeutic aid. These taping

  techniques can be used on their own or as an additional aid to the hydrotherapy and massage

  recovery plans. Benefits of kinesiology tape include: decrease in pain, increased muscle strength,

  improved blood and lymph circulation, can assist with joint stability, stimulate proper

  proprioception and in turn promote proper movement. Dogs experiencing neck/back/shoulder

  pain, hind end weakness or leg pain, disc bulges, lymphedema/post surgical swelling, contusions or

  proprioception issues can all greatly benefit from kinesiology tape.

• Weight Loss/Muscle Maintenance Swim sessions with a certified Canine Hydrotherapist, whether

  it be for weight loss, whereby the dog requires a low impact exercise for their joints but could

  benefit from a full cardio workout, or one that is experiencing muscle atrophy due to an

  injury/surgery, extensive recovery period, lack of exercise or an unbalanced feeding regime.

  *The therapeutic services offered by Pawtherapy K9 Aquatic & Massage Centre are never

  in place of veterinary medicine and only act as cooperative/complimentary modalities to the

  treatment plan outlined by your Veterinarian. As such, a veterinary assessment and referral

  must be completed and submitted, before we can assist in the care of your dog.*

• Recreational Swim sessions for a dog who simply enjoys the water or could benefit from an

  activity that is both mentally and physically stimulating, and allows for excess energy to be

  expelled.

• Learn to Swim Programs for dogs of all ages (16 weeks+), that may have never had exposure to

  swimming or might not have had a great introduction, but might greatly benefit from this type of

  activity. Our facility offers a safe and warm place, where at their own pace dogs can become

  accustomed to swim gear (i.e. life jackets/swim vests), learn to safely enter and exit a body of

  water, learn to swim, and have fun playing while getting a great workout!