This course is brought to you by NC State

This course offers a comprehensive deep dive into leveraging this therapeutic modality. The course begins with a review of the properties of water and their physiological effects, followed by a focus on the anatomy, physiology, and common conditions benefiting from underwater treadmill therapy. Attendees will gain valuable insights into equipment and water management, alongside essential knowledge of canine psychology and handling techniques for effective and stress-free sessions. The curriculum is rounded out with instruction on bodywork and relaxation techniques, culminating in a practical workshop where participants can immediately apply learned concepts in a hands-on setting. This course is designed to provide practitioners with the actionable skills and confidence needed to effectively integrate underwater treadmill therapy into their rehabilitation practice.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

Demonstrate advanced understanding of underwater treadmill hydrotherapy principles as they apply to orthopedic and neurologic rehabilitation.
Design and implement progressive, evidence-based hydrotherapy protocols tailored to specific orthopedic conditions and post-operative recovery.
Apply hands-on techniques to improve joint mobility, muscle strength, gait quality, and functional outcomes in orthopedic patients.
Utilize targeted hydrotherapy strategies to support neuroplasticity, proprioceptive feedback, and motor control in neurologic patients.
Modify treadmill parameters and session variables to achieve therapeutic goals and respond to patient presentation in real time.
Confidently integrate advanced hydrotherapy techniques into comprehensive rehabilitation plans for complex cases.

Course Outline

I. Introduction & Foundations of Advanced Hydrotherapy

Brief review of hydrotherapy principles as they apply to advanced cases
Biomechanics, tissue healing timelines, and progressive loading considerations
Optimizing patient selection, safety, and outcomes in the underwater treadmill

II. Advanced Techniques for Orthopedic Cases

Developing progressive protocols for post-operative and conservative orthopedic management
Case-based strategies for CCL repairs, hip and elbow dysplasia, TPLO/TTA, osteoarthritis, and other common conditions
Progression principles: resistance, incline, turbulence, and gait patterning
Troubleshooting limitations and compensations in orthopedic patients

III. Hands-On Lab: Orthopedic Applications

Live demonstration and participant practice with orthopedic patients
Adjusting treadmill parameters to target specific gait patterns and muscle groups
Incorporating manual techniques, functional exercises, and neuromuscular re-education in water

IV. Advanced Techniques for Neurologic Cases

Understanding neuroplasticity and how water properties enhance neurologic recovery
Treatment planning for IVDD, FCE, degenerative myelopathy, and other neurologic conditions
Strategies for improving proprioception, coordination, balance, and strength in neurologic patients
Integrating hydrotherapy into a comprehensive neuro-rehab plan

V. Hands-On Lab: Neurologic Applications

Live demonstration and guided participant practice with neurologic case scenarios
Real-time assessment and adjustment of protocols based on patient response
Incorporating sensory input, task-specific training, and progressive challenge techniques

VI. Q & A / Case Discussions

Open discussion on complex cases, treatment decision-making, and clinical troubleshooting
Participant questions and collaborative solution-building

Kirsty Oliver

VN, RVT, VTS (phys. rehab), CCRP, CCAT, CCMT, CVPP.
Veterinary Surgical Centers, Vienna, Virginia, US Kirsty Oliver is presenting on behalf of NC State/NES and in cooperation with STAAR Conference.

Kirsty Oliver is an English trained Veterinary Nurse who holds an Advanced Diploma in Veterinary Nursing (surgical). Having dedicated the first half of her career to nursing surgical and orthopaedic patients, Kirsty qualified in veterinary rehabilitation (CCRP) in 2005. In 2010, she added CVPP (Certified Veterinary Pain Practitioner) through the IVAPM. Kirsty joined VSC/VSCR in 2016 after spending 14 years at a large veterinary hospital in New Jersey.

In 2018, she obtained her VTS in Physical Rehabilitation with the APRVT (Academy of Physical Rehabilitation Veterinary Technicians). In 2022, Kirsty was invited to become an instructor for the new CCAT Rehabilitation Program through NE Seminars and NC State.

Kirsty has a passion for manual therapy and myofascial treatment to help patients move better after injury. When she isn’t working, Kirsty lives with her hubby, 3 cats, 4 chickens, and 2 bee hives in the mountains of West Virgina.

Anthony Schena

CCaAT, CSCC, CCHT
Owner, DOO, Alpha Animal Rehabilitation and Fitness.
Underdog Business Solutions

Anthony Schena is an expert in both the clinical and business aspects of canine rehabilitation. As a Certified Companion Animal Rehabilitation Therapist (CCAT), Canine Strength and Conditioning Coach (CSCC), and Certified Canine Hydrotherapist (CCHT), Anthony brings a wealth of experience to the table. He began his professional journey in 2015 in the field of human physical therapy, where he specialized in outpatient orthopedics, manual therapy, aquatic therapy, and sports medicine. His love of dogs and a life-changing experience with his now 15-year-old Cockapoo, Miles, inspired him to transition into canine rehabilitation. When Miles suffered a serious injury, Anthony realized he could apply his physical therapy expertise to help dogs, leading him to dive deep into the field of canine rehab. This also led him on a mission to raise awareness and increase access to canine rehabilitation, which was then few and far between.

After completing the Northeast Seminar’s canine rehab program and building his skillset, Anthony founded his first canine rehab practice. He successfully grew his first business, eventually selling it and starting another, continuing his commitment to both the welfare of dogs and the growth of the industry.

Sessions:: Thurs. Apr. 30th, 8:30am - 12:45pm
Credits:: 4.0 RACE approval pending; 4.0 NYSED-approved
Course Rating:: Basic: CCRP, CCRT, CCAT
Intermediate: DVM/VMD, PT, VT, CCRA, CCRVN
Policies:: To request a refund, please complete and postmark this Workshop Cancellation Form by March 28, 2026. Refunds exclude a $25 processing fee.