About Us
Guernsey Canine Hydrotherapy is owned and operated by Nikki Domaille, who trained at the accredited Hawksmoor training centre in 2008, and has a specific interest in canine rehabilitation.
Nikki began her career with dogs in 1994 working for Guide Dogs for the Blind Association in Wokingham, Berkshire.
Having covered many aspects of canine health, welfare and Guide Dog training over an 8 year period, she moved to Guernsey in 2002 and undertook a career as a veterinary nursing assistant. During this time, Nikki’s interest in rehabilitation strengthened and she realised the need for this type of facility in Guernsey.
To learn more about how your dog could benefit from hydrotherapy, please click on the above menus.
Facilities
The Hydrojet Pool
Our fully tiled, purpose built pool is 16 feet long and 8 feet wide, access is via the non slip ramp. It is suitable for free swimming and the water depth is 4 feet, allowing for a therapist to accompany your dog in the pool if required.
Water management
Our pool is treated using small amounts of chlorine. This chemical has been widely used in canine hydrotherapy for many years with no adverse reactions. It is an extremely important in preventing the spread of bacteria.
The water is tested and recorded at least three times daily using a digital photometer. This allows the chemicals to be kept at their optimum levels and provides accurate results.
pH levels are kept between 7.2 and 7.6, which is in line with the pH of a dogs mucous membranes to prevent any irritation. Chlorine levels are kept at a safe 0.5 – 2ppm.
The pool is also fitted with a high quality sand filtration system to remove all traces of dirt, hair and grit. Manual cleaning also takes place between sessions, as excellent standards of hygiene are very important to us. We also request that dogs are groomed before arriving at the pool to aid us in keeping the pool free from dirt and hair.
Showering and drying
Your dog will be showered prior to every swim, to remove any dirt before entering the pool and also to help them acclimatise to the water.
After swimming, your dog will also be bathed (shampoo optional) to remove all traces of chlorine. If you have a medicated or prescribed shampoo, please bring it to the sessions.
Drying dogs before they leave the centre is very important, as joints may become stiff if the coat is left wet. We have a warm air blaster which is the quickest way to remove excess water. If your dog is a little unsure of the blaster, we will provide plenty of towels as an alternative option.
Buoyancy aids and toys
All dogs will initially be fitted with a buoyancy aid to suit their individual abilities and size. Once your dog becomes confident in the pool and fitness levels are sufficient, a harness can be used in place of the buoyancy jacket.
Collars and leads will be provided in the pool area during the sessions, so that yours stay dry. Otherwise dogs must be on a lead and under control at all times.
There are a wide range of floating and squeaky toys for your dog to play with. However, if your dog has a particular favourite, feel free to bring it along!
CHA Member
The Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) is a UK based organisation whose aims are to provide self-regulation and set benchmark standards of treatment, operation, training, supervision, first aid, record keeping and water quality for all of its members. Guernsey Canine Hydrotherapy is a member of the CHA.
