A NEW dog hydrotherapy centre in Carlton is set to become the first local centre to gain recognition by the national association for hydrotherapists.
Aquapaws canine hydrotherapy centre has already had a ‘few dogs through the doors’ according to owner Kellie-Jo Bennion.
Kellie, 38, said: “We’ve had a nice steady stream in.
“Some big dogs, small dogs, dogs with medical problems and ones just for fun and fitness.”
Kellie is now in the process of applying for official approval by the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (NARCH).
She said the centre work ‘really closely’ with vets and insurance companies, and as part of the registration process new dogs must have a health check and a form signed by their vet.
Kellie initially trained as a physiotherapist and worked as a nurse for the NHS for 18 years, before making the switch to working with dogs.
She said: “It’s just a slight change from dealing with people to dealing with dogs.
“I’ve always been involved with dogs so it’s not like it was new territory.
“I already knew about anatomy and medical conditions, and dogs aren’t that different to humans.”
The idea came about in February when the premises next door to Carlton Pet Supplies became available.
Kellie said: “My mum goes in there all the time and he just mentioned it to her one day.
“It just seemed like a good opportunity, as it’s all animal related.”
