Aquus - for the benefit and wellbeing of the horse

The Aquus centre is based just 10 minutes from the M11, in rural farm surroundings and offers an ideal location for convalescing horses. The secure yard, with purpose built stables, is supervised 24 hours a day.

By improving circulation, hydrotherapy benefits all horses - not only those with injuries. Our staff work within a framework of veterinary advice to meet individual needs and provide controlled levels of exercise in conjunction with specific rehabilitation programmes.

Many clients find that their horses greatly benefit from maintenance spas before and after competition as it helps to prevent injury and fatigue.

Horses staying at our yard receive 5 star care whether on holiday or staying with us for rehabilitation. All vets are welcome to use and refer to our facilities.

Cold water therapy for working horses

Most insurance companies will offer cover for hydrotherapy treatment with veterinary referal making hydrotherapy an additional and beneficial treatment for many horses.

Recent clinical research by Professor Evan Hunt at the University of Sydney, has demonstrated effective treatment of a wide range of lower leg conditions amongst thoroughbred and standard-bred race horses.

Professor Hunt reported that the therapy enabled a number of leading horses to return to racing successfully, despite serious career-threatening injuries.

A wide range of horses and ponies have benefited from hydrotherapy therapy.

Active treatment for working horses

We have continued to develop and enhance our facilities enabling us to offer the highest standards of treatment and optimum conditions for rehabilitation. Active recovery is an integral part of our treatment programmes. We have a 5-horse walker for carefully-controlled exercise, plus, for longer term convalescence, horses can make use of our large outdoor school and post and rail paddocks. Our treatment combines the best of traditional and natural approaches with the latest scientific veterinary practice.

How does Hydrotherapy work?

Hydrotherapy works in a variety of ways by simulating the healing effects of sea-water. Lower water temperature provides greater relief from pain and inflammation, while higher salt concentration acts as a natural disinfectant, drawing out fluid and cleansing wounds. The design of our spa enables the lower legs to be treated in varying depths of water. Results indicate that the greater depth exerts higher pressure on the limbs, allowing deeper tissue penetration for improved healing. The spa aerates the water, providing a massage effect whilst significantly increasing the oxygen content of the water to accelerate the repair of tissue.

Hydrotherapy can be used to treat a wide variety of conditions:

• tendon and ligament injuries
• joint conditions
• fractures and splints
• infections of the lower limbs
• post-operative complications
• healing of wounds
• concussion and stress after competing
• tendon sheath injuries
• bone damage, such as shin soreness
• restricted hoof growth
• chronic arthritis