 At the age of 10 ½ years in July 2005 Emily a German shepherd developed a condition known as C.D.R.M (Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy) which means the nerves at the base of the spine start to die. Emily  was only able to walk six paces before she fell over, this caused her a lot of distress. We visited our vet feeling this was the end and I was going to have had to put Emily to sleep. My vet said there was one more thing we could try which was Hydrotherapy. This was our last hope so we went to Butterwick on our vets recommendation where we met Mark. After hearing Emily’s story and having a good look at her Mark agreed to help. Emily had never swam in her life before and was very naughty on her session’s at the pool, but Mark was very kind and soon had Emily swimming. After only two sessions there was a big change in Emily, it was like a miracle as she could walk again and was not falling over. We visited the hydrotherapy pool every week and each time we saw an improvement, Emily was once again a happy dog who enjoyed her walks and even started playing again. Mark and the hydrotherapy sessions had given Emily her life back. This continued until April 2006 and Emily was naearing her 12th birthday. Then due to an urgent admission into hospital for three weeks Emily went down hill and was unable to walk again. I was heartbroken, but one phone call to Mark was all it took and once again Mark came to our rescue and started the hydrotherapy sessions once more. Mark soon got Emily back on her feet and she is now happy in her self. Mark is very dedicated in what he does and will always go the extra mile for you. I would say to any dog owner do not give up hope but get in touch with Mark at Butterwick Hydrotherapy. As I know he will always try to help you and your dog. Emily is proof that hydrotherapy works well. I have seen lots of dogs with different kinds of mobility problems benefitting from hydrotherapy treatment, so believe me there is hope. Emily and I can never thank Mark enough for all he has done.
Mrs Dorothy Marshall.
Our vet suggested hydrotherapy for Barley a 4 year old Labrador after surgery on her Cruciate Ligament. We were sceptical at first but went along to see the facilities at Butterwick. We booked her in for a session to see how she was at first. Mark was brilliant with her. We since then had 2 block booking sessions of 10 sessions each. After a few weeks we could see the difference in Barley’s confidence in using her leg and soon her muscles began to grow and her leg got a lot stronger.
She has since made a better recovery than we could of ever expected and hoped for. Thes sessions not just helped Barley but Mark advised on health care, vitamin supplements and diet, which has also proved a success. Barley is now a very healthy and fit dog enjoying the freedom of leisure as she once did before. Barley is now nearly 6 years old. In the years to follow, when she gets older and her exercise regime may start to fail she will continue with her gentle hydrotherapy. This program is not just for recovery after sugery but as a good exercise.
I am so pleased with the outcome, I offer my thanks to Mark and Francesca for helping me but getting back the healthy fit dog Barley once was just over a year ago. A happy life for Barley. Money and time well spent.
Andrea Duangkham
Bess's Story
Bess was diagnosed with a cruciate ligament injury in May last year. She was limping badly and because of this had a lot of muscle wastage. She was then referred to a specialist who would operate on her. We had been told this operation was painful and recuperation would take a while. The day we were taking her for the operation was nerve racking so imagine our relief when the vet suggested we give her a course of Hydrotherapy and to return in six weeks to see if there was any improvement.
Remembering an advert, I rang Butterwick Kennels and arranged a visit to see the facilities. I was impressed by the friendliness of the owners and staff alike as well as being very professional. The pool and pool area were spotless, had every safety measure, showers for an after swim rinse and lots of toys to play with. This was the place for Bess so I booked 10 sessions (getting one free).
Although Bess loved swimming, she had never worn a life jacket or been in a pool before but with Mark’s reassurance and encouragement, she soon relaxed and enjoyed her swim.
Six weeks later when we returned to the vet, Bess was able to put her foot down and the muscles were starting to build once again. The vet was very impressed and said to continue with the hydrotherapy. Even better, she didn’t need to have an operation. All I can say is hydrotherapy worked wonders for Bess and she now runs about as normal.
Because of her success, I now take my other dog Homer who has hip and elbow dysplasia. Again his muscle tone is getting better and hopefully he may loose some weight. Both dogs love going for their swim, in fact they both go crazy when we get there wanting to be the first in.
Hydrotherapy worked and is still working for my two dogs, so if in doubt give it a go and give Butterwick a ring.
Marjorie Price
Lucky is a black cocker spaniel male born in late December 2005. He was the smallest of the litter of six and at under 24 hours old was taken to the vets due to not feeding. The vet found fluid on his lungs because he was born with a cleft palate. This meant we had to bottle feed him, however he was so behind his litter mates by approximately five weeks. His mobility was so severe he was unable to stand, sit or walk and had a head tremor.
It was at this time that he was diagnosed with having a neurological condition called Cerrebellum hydraplasia. This affects his balance and co-ordination and although the outlook for him is unclear he may learn to compensate for his illness. Other than this he is a normal six month old puppy that likes to play and behaves as a puppy should. To help his mobility we needed to tone and strengthen his muscles and are now attending hydrotherapy and have purchased a dog walker for him.
Nobody knows how far he will progress if he will ever walk or stand unaided but we have got to give him the chance.
Pippa is a six year old West Highland terrier. When she was six months old she broke her left hind leg whilst having a boisterous playing session with her sister in the garden. The break was on the growth plates of the bone, which has slightly effected the growth of her hind leg.
Over time Pippa developed the occasional limp, which got progressively worse and resulted in a constant limp and wasted muscle on the leg. She was also put on a daily dose of medication to relieve the pain. Of course this had other effects on Pippa; she could not go for her beloved walks or play chase in the garden with anyone who would play with her. She became very lethargic and just lost interest in most things. The vet suggested surgery to try and correct the damaged leg, but this was not a guaranteed remedy. The other alternative was to try hydrotherapy. We looked around for the best and found Butterwick. Mark was very welcoming and showed us around the facilities, not only the pool but the kennels as well. He was very understanding of our concerns and explained the program he would put Pippa on, which was a gradual build up of time starting with one minute in the pool and then one minute rest. This time would gradual be increased as and when Mark felt that Pippa was ready to take on the extra time. At first Pippa was apprehensive of the pool, but put on a brave front and with Marks help overcame her fears. She goes every week and the apprehension is now replaced with excitement in going to see Mark and going for her swim. Pippa is no longer limping or on any medication. The muscles in her hind leg are now recovered and she has regained the energy and playfulness that was missing, but most importantly she is not in pain. Pippa is now back to her happy playful, healthy self and thoroughly enjoys her sessions in the pool.
We are very grateful to Mark for the help he has given us and we highly recommend not only the hydro-pool but the kennels and the cattery to everyone. The facilities are kept and maintained to a high level and everyone is friendly and helpful.
Sam is a 12 year old arthritic black labrador with attitude! Before he started attending hydrotherapy sessions last year he was struggling with his movement, and seemed to be quite depressed about life. He had no interest in walks and even attempting to stand up was quite a task for him.
When he started his hydrotherapy it seemed that his stubbornness would prevent him from making any progress. However with time and lots of patience it has certainly paid off.
A year on, Sam is a much happier dog. His eyes are shining and his tail wags much more. Basic movements appear to have become much easier for him as his joints are not as stiff. He can stand up without any trouble, and has even tried playing football in the garden again (something which he hadn’t done for a couple of years).
Every week when he sees his towel coming out of the cupboard he gets on his feet, tail wagging and cannot wait to get to Butterwick hydrotherapy
He has got the twinkle back in his eyes.
Thanks Mark!
We are very happy with the progress Lucy has made since beginning hydrotherapy not only physically but emotionally as well. Before beginning hydrotherapy Lucy suffered from stiffness in her back legs after physical exercise now it has completely disappeared and she also has a lot more stamina.
Hydrotherapy has also toned Lucy’s muscles and it helps her maintains a healthy weight. Mark really helped Lucy settle in and feel at ease when she first started. Lucy was not a confident dog and was quire nervous on her first swim but mark really helped her to stay calm and after the first couple of swims Lucy really began to enjoy herself. WE have noticed that Lucy’s confidence has grown immensely with everything. We would like to thank Mark for all the hard work he has put into helping Lucy.
The vet recommended hydrotherapy for our dog Measles and when we researched establishments that provide hydrotherapy; Butterwick was highly recommended by someone whose dog was already being treated there.
The staff at Butterwick are always very professional and friendly including ensuring that the vet had indeed recommended hydrotherapy for measles and that we did not entertain unrealistic expectations. At all times the staff at Butterwick have been helpful and careful regarding the best interests of our dog. We are also impressed and reassured by the presence of the therapist in the pool with the dog throughout the therapy sessions. When Measles died our other dog (Buffen) began hydrotherapy. She is now 14 years of age and has benefited in terms of mobility and some weight loss. Buffen gives every sign of greatly enjoying herself every time she has hydrotherapy although she need a couple of sessions to understand what is required of her.
Winston is a 9 year old labrador with arthritis and hip problems. About 2 years ago he was having problems getting up and walking. We were starting to think the kindest thing for him was to put him to sleep. We found Butterwick Hydrotherapy on the internet and after visiting and and chatting to Mark we decided to give him a try.
We can’t believe the difference in him. He is now more active and even runs on occasions. With a change of diet plus swimming he lost weight which has helped his joints and he is now a much happier dog.
At first Winston thought that by holding his breath he could float around the pool, but with encouragement from Mark and Francesca he started to swim, He was easily bored with the toys so a constant stream of new toys were brought out to keep him occupied and interested.
We are very grateful for the help and advice given by Mark and Francesca and have recommended them to other people .
Thank you.
Joe is a 13 year old male Cocker Spaniel who was diagnosed with Cardiomyopathy 7 years ago and a nasal tumour 2 years ago, for which he underwent a 5 week course of radiotherapy.
To aid his recovery an alternative form of exercise and mainly for some fun, as Joe’s prognosis after the radiotherapy was 6 – 12 months, Joe took part in regular hydrotherapy sessions at Butterwick, which true to water loving spaniel style he thoroughly enjoyed. The sessions were tailored to Joe’s ability and potential capability ensuring that his well-being was considered at all times.
Joe continues to defy the odds and is still going strong thanks in part to all the care and attention that he receives from Butterwick.
A great big THANK YOU!!
I took lassie to my vet’s in February 2004. It took one year to diagnose that she had torn her cruciate ligament in her back right leg. Because of a lack of hydrotherapists in my area and the cost I didn’t take Lassie to hydrotherapy for another year after diagnosis (February 2006). At this point because of Lassie’s age (11 years old) and the length of time between injury to starting Hydrotherapy we were unsure about whether she would have much improvement. Lassie has attended twice weekly for 3 months and near the start of the course she struggled with 7 minute swims. She now swims for over 32 minutes (although not in one go) whilst playing with a squeaky toy which she loves for encouragement. I wish to thank Butterwick Kennels for helping to restore Lassie to the health and happiness she had before the injury.
Poppy is a 12 year old labrador which had a fall in November 2005. She sustained nerve damage to her hips and left front leg.
She already had Arthritis in her hips and possibly both wrists.
Following a course of high dose antiflammatory drugs she began to swim weekly. The level of effort required for swimming was tailorted to suit her ability and increased gradually. She now swims once a fortnight and is able to walk up to three miles in comfort.
Some of her puppy behviour has returned for example she now chases rabbits and brings a ball to be thrown.
We have gradually reduced all her medication to less than half the original dose without significant detriment to her well being
I am quite sure that hydrotherapy has played an important role in Poppy’s almost complete recovery from her injuries and improved mental health.
Taz’s story:
We got Taz from the Dogs Trust (previously NCDL). We are well into our pension years and didn’t feel it would be fair to have a puppy or young dog, we lead too quiet a life, but felt that we could give a loving home to an older dog. Having always had “second hand” dogs we were well used to them bringing problems with them (our previous dog, a much loved German Shepherd, was blind), and were pleasantly surprised when we found Taz. She was 10 years old, a Rottweiler/Labrador cross, and full of bounce and sparkle. She has natural good manners and is a joy to have around, her only problem being that she is not very good at coming back when she is called. She is a very happy dog, and keeps us laughing at her funny ways.
However, one of her “funny ways” was the beginning of her downfall. She just loves to chase after diesel trains, either down our long garden to where she can just catch a glimpse of them a field away, or, better still, if she is out for a walk, across the field and on to the railway bridge, where she can stand and bark at them.
One day over Easter in 2005 she let out the most appalling scream after one such chase. We couldn’t find anything wrong with her, and after a few minutes she recovered and walked home. However, she screamed once or twice more when she got home, there was obviously something very wrong. Also she wouldn’t eat, which was so unlike Taz, she lives for her food.
After a difficult examination (she had rather a lot of middle age spread) our vet discovered that she had slipped a disc in her upper back. He pumped her full of painkillers, gave us more to take home, and prescribed rest, rest, and more rest.
Gradually, over many weeks, the dreadful screams subsided to the occasional yelp, and she was able to go for short walks in the adjoining field. She had become very miserable during this time, and her tail hardly ever wagged. She managed to get into mischief, though, picking up poison not once, but twice, and getting kicked by a horse. More visits to the vet – we were almost permanent fixtures in the surgery. However, she continued to improve, and could take longer walks, and became happier, although rather subdued. Then one day she came back from her walk limping heavily, her back leg this time. Being banned from chasing trains she had turned her attention to rabbits, and twisted her leg. Back to the vet yet again, more painkillers, more rest, she had injured her cruciate ligament. After several weeks with very little improvement we decided, very reluctantly, that she should be operated on.
However, after studying the X-rays taken prior to the operation. Our vet discovered that it was, in fact, beginning to heal, if rather slowly. He said he would rather not operate if it could be avoided, and suggested we try hydrotherapy coupled with a weight loss programme.
When we first saw Butterwick Hydrotherapy we were immediately impressed by the pool room, large, airy, beautifully tiled and immaculately clean, the water invitingly warm. Mark took the time to explain to us how he goes about things and how hydrotherapy works, and to ask us what we (and our vet) hoped to achieve from the treatment. He gave us the form needed for our vet’s written permission to treat Taz, and explained that he always goes into the water with his patients – we wouldn’t recognize him in street clothers, we’ve only ever seen him in a wet suit!
For her first swim Taz was provided with a very snazzy net bathing costume so that Mark had complete control over her, and he could see exactly what was going on with her under water, but she has since progressed to a smart red life jacket. Mark swims her in short bursts, with a rest on the ramp in between because it is hard work, making sure that she uses her legs to full capacity – she has got wise and tries to get away with just a lazy dogg paddle if she can, but Mark soon puts a stop to that! Her progress is chalked up on a board so that Mark can see exactly how she is progressing from week to week.
Taz’s leg has improved dramatically, you could almost see the muscle growing back each week, the whole shape of her leg has changed for the better. An added bonus is that hydrotherapy is helping her arthritis too. Pain killers are now a thing of the past, and we are confident that she will finally be signed off by the vet in a couple of weeks.
After her own personal “annis horribilis” we have at last got our happy, tail-wagging, bouncing Taz back. She ahs lost 4 ½ kilos in weight too, which has helped. We shall continue to take her to hydrotherapy though, because it is good exercise for the older dog, and also. She really enjoys it. She gets very excited when we get her towels out ready, rushing off to get her lead so that we won’t go without her.
So a big “Thank you” Mark, for helping to make our Taz and her besotted owners happy again.
Perry is an 11 year old poodle cross who we adopted three years ago. He slipped in March 2007 and snapped the cruciate ligaments in his hind which resulted in him undergoing a bilateral cruciate repair later that month. Prior to his injury Perry enjoyed daily walks and pottering around the garden but was not what you call a dog. When it came to exercise he was not known for being an energetic participant and so we were very concerned at how he would recover the operation.
Fortunately he came through the operation but six weeks later was still unable to stand or walk at all. His only method of getting around was to and "bunny hop". He was extremely miserable and we had to lift and hold him each time he needed to drink or toilet. It was to look as though we may have to consider the unthinkable and have him put to sleep but after discussion with our vet, she recommended we try hydrotherapy and so we contacted Mark at Kennels.
Perry had his swim on 10th May and has been on twice weekly swims since then. His progress has been remarkable and it is all down to Mark and Jason. Within a few weeks he was able to stand and manage a steps. He has now had 20 sessions and has regained his independence and lust for life. His tail wags constantly, he is so alert, playful and obviously he is able to go for daily walks and he scampers into the hydrotherapy pool like a spring lamb. Perry has also lost surplus weight and this has been a further to him.
We cannot praise Mark and Jason highly enough and they have achieved nothing short of a miracle with Perry. Perry loves his swims and Mark and Jason have ensured that each session is tailored to Perry's needs and ability on that day. It is hard to believe that we once thought we would lose our pet and I am sure that it is only the dedication, expertise and care provided by Mark and Jason, that has prevented this. We now call Perry the miracle dog and Mark and Jason are indeed miracle workers. We can never thank them enough and would recommend them to anyone.
Toby's Story
Toby (our 4 yr old Welsh Corgi) was diagnosed by the vet as having arthritis in his front elbows. Up until then, Toby was full of life and liked nothing better than to play with his toys and go for walks.
Since being diagnosed with this problem, Toby no longer wanted to play or go out for walks, some days he could hardly put any weight on his legs, he just lay on his bed. After searching the internet for alternative therapies and with advice from the vets, we decided to try Hydrotherapy, as we felt Toby was not our bubbly, happy little dog anymore.
We took him to Mark in July 2006 and Toby was not sure at first, but after going every week for a few weeks, he started to look forward to going and soon got in to a routine. Slowly but surely our bubbly, happy little dog came back and was keen to play and go for walks again. He even felt well enough to sneak on to the settee at times. Toby lost nearly 2 kgs in weight and is still his happy normal self.
Thanks very much to Mark, Jason and everyone at Butterwick Hydrotherapy for bringing back my happy little dog.
THANK YOU.
Claire Webb
I would like to say a big thank you to Mark and Jason who worked very hard on concentrating getting Thai fit after a right leg injury and also being extremely overweight for a small Chihuahua.
The dedication of Mark and Jason working hard to get Thai fit and well has paid off tremendously.
Thai is aged 9 years and can now play and run a little bit with my baby Chihuahua she is also a lot happier and brighter in herself.
My husband and I are extremely pleased at the end result going from strength to strength bearing in mind that she was a couch potato.
I would just like to say a big thank you for their perseverance.
We do miss our Saturday swimming not that Jacqui Paterson vets has commented on how Thai feels and looks good we have stopped the swimming but if she starts slipping back to her old ways we will be returning.
Many thanks again
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