When a human has a knee or hip injury or is recovering from surgery, it's common for their doctor to call for a program of rehabilitation. Now the same is true for our pets. Today we'll learn more about hydro physical therapy for dogs in this edition of Pet Pointers.

Rehabilitation for pets is a growing trend and is often used as an alternative to costly painful surgery or medication that can have damaging side effects. CCRP certified canine rehabilitation practitioner, Lis Conarton says hydrotherapy treatment can have amazing results.

The Veterinary Medical Center in Syracuse offers their patients use of the underwater treadmill as part of the rehabilitation program. An underwater treadmill helps improve muscle strength and endurance, as well as the additional buoyancy and resistance of water. The water is heated and provides a soothing, healing environment for your pet's sore muscles.

Dexter, a senior Rottweiler mix, has seen significant improvement. His human mommy Kim Thomas tells us at first Dexter needed a little convincing but now he seems to enjoy his hydrotherapy.

Before your pet starts a regime of therapy, you will likely need a referral from your vet or surgeon giving your pet the green light on the road to recovery.