Meadow Farm Hydrotherapy - Skylar's story

Meadow Farm meets Skylar

When Skylar was just 13 months old she was diagnosed with severe hip dysplasia in both hips and due to her being a giant breed, a St Bernard, it wasnt possible for her to have hip replacement surgery. To try and ease her pain the vets removed the femoral head of the worst hip and it was decided that the best way to try and build the false joint was to use hydrotherapy. As I was waiting, at the vets, for a list of local hydro centres a lady in the reception area recommended Meadow Farm as she regularly swam her dog there, so I decided to give it a try.

On arrival at Meadow Farm I really didnt know what to expect, here I was with my rather large dog that was in a lot of pain, could barely walk and had never been swimming before, but I didnt need to worry! Rachel & Roger were great, they explained everything and knew exactly what Skylar would and wouldn't be able to do and from then on I was totally at ease, as was Skylar.

Skylar loved swimming from day one and began to make progress almost straight away, she just got stronger and stronger. Then about 8 months into her treatment there came a set back, Skylar developed epilepsy and missed a few swim sessions which caused muscle wastage and this is when I was introduced to Sarah Clemson the physiotherapist. Sarah has helped Skylar with treatments and exercises at Meadow Farm and has also given me simple exercises to do at home and alongside the swimming they have proved to be invaluable.

Rachel and Roger are a wonderful thoughtful couple and their approach to the hydrotherapy and each dog that they see is met with a visible passion, this is not just a livelihood to them they genuinely want the best for your dog and will do all they can to achieve this. Rachel's knowledge and experience is second to none she will answer any question you have, offers really good advice and where you haven't understood the veterinary jargon of your pets condition Rachel will soon explain it. I would personally recommend Meadow Farm to anyone that has a pet needing hydrotherapy they genuinely will do everything they can to help.
Skylar is now well on the road to recovery and the swimming has even improved her other hip so much that at present no further surgery is needed.

Thank you Meadow Farm!

Lisa Green & Skylar

Meadow Farm 2008