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Tutor Support Included

Learning remotely doesn’t mean you’re on your own! You’ll be able to message your tutor through our industry-leading learning platform.

Flexible Payment Options

Enrol today from £9.99 deposit & spread the cost over 24 months

Learn At Your Own Pace

Study wherever and whenever you want. You’ll have access to your course for one year so you can fit your learning around your other commitments.

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Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists (RQF)

Get in touch with us and we’ll call you back
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OUR PASS RATE
Animal Care & Veterinary Science (National Average 74.9%)
86.8%

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists (RQF)

Key Points

  • Learn about the benefits of hydrotherapy
  • Complete this qualification within the year
  • Meets the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) membership requirements
  • Gain membership with IAAT
  • Contribute to your CPD
  • Includes a 5-day practical placement in a Covid-secure venue
  • Choice of placement locations available 

About your Course

The Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists) has been specifically designed for Veterinary Physiotherapists who want to add to their skillset and further their professional development in animal hydrotherapy.

This Ofqual regulated qualification is suitable for qualified animal and veterinary physiotherapists. The qualification includes online theory and 5 days of practical experience in gait analysis, hydrotherapy, and aquatic treadmill training at a choice of locations.

The Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) recognises this qualification as part of their criteria for joining their membership for qualified Small Animal Hydrotherapists.

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists (RQF) (CHA%201.webp)

Getting Started

learndirect is the UK’s leading online course provider. Our online courses give you the flexibility to engage with your studies whenever suits you best.

The benefit of online learning means that you can plan your studies around your existing commitments. So, you’re able to progress with your learning in a way that works for you, without the stressful balancing act. With no classes to attend or a timetable to stick to, you’re in control of the pace and place of your learning.

What’s more, we have dedicated and experienced online tutors to support you throughout your course. As well as all the material being readily available as soon as you enrol so you’re able to start right away.

You will have access to the course for 2 years.

Modules

Unit 1: Introduction to Small Animal Hydrotherapy 

 On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand what hydrotherapy is
  • Understand the properties of water
  • Know the equipment used in hydrotherapy
  • Understand the intended outcomes of hydrotherapy
  • Understand the health and safety requirements in a hydrotherapy centre
  • Understand legislation about hydrotherapy

Unit 2: Conditions Presented for Hydrotherapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand orthopaedic conditions
  • Understand medical conditions
  • Understand neurological conditions
  • Understand how to manage conditions presented for hydrotherapy
  • Understand how hydrotherapy improves the condition and fitness of small animals

Unit 3: Water Maintenance, Balance and Testing

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the maintenance of hydrotherapy equipment
  • Understand how to administer water chemicals
  • Understand how to evaluate water test results

Unit 4: Practical Skills in Small Animal Hydrotherapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Be able to assess patients prior to treatment
  • Be able to prepare the environment for hydrotherapy treatment
  • Be able to prepare patients for hydrotherapy treatment
  • Be able to conduct hydrotherapy pool sessions
  • Be able to complete aftercare processes following hydrotherapy treatment
  • Be able to communicate feedback to members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT)

Unit 5: Practical Advanced Aquatic Treadmill Therapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Be able to conduct a gait analysis.
  • Understand the equipment used for advanced aquatic TM techniques
  • Be able to apply advanced aquatic TM techniques
  • Be able to review patient performance

Unit 6: Practical Aquatic Treadmill Treatment

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Be able to operate an aquatic treadmill
  • Understand the factors affecting patients in the aquatic treadmill
  • Understand patient suitability for the aquatic treadmill
  • Be able to create treadmill sessions for patients

Unit 7: Administration in a Hydrotherapy Centre

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the importance of continual professional development
  • Understand professional conduct within a hydrotherapy centre
  • Understand the roles and responsibilities of staff within a hydrotherapy centre
  • Understand hydrotherapy centre administration

Unit 8: Assessing Suitability of Animals for Hydrotherapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the importance of veterinary referral
  • Understand how to health check small animals
  • Know the members of the Multi-disciplinary team (MDT)
  • Understand how to assess the suitability of patients for hydrotherapy

Unit 9: Animal Behaviour

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand small animal behaviour concerning safe handling for hydrotherapy
  • Understand small animal body language

Unit 10: First Aid for Small Animals

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the primary aims of first aid
  • Understand how to manage different types of emergencies
  • Be able to apply first aid to small animals

Unit 11: Tissue Healing

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the tissue healing processes
  • Understand the factors affecting tissue healing
  • Understand pain and its effect on hydrotherapy treatment planning
  • Understand the timing of hydrotherapy in relation to tissue healing

Entry Requirements

Learners should be aged 16 or above and will need to provide evidence of Vet or Veterinary Nurse qualifications in order to enrol on this course.

Minimum Age restriction

16

Average completion timeframe

You have 24 months to complete your course.

Assessment requirements

You will be assessed via a combination of video and photo submissions, your supervisor will also need to provide witness testimonies.

Placement or Practical required

This course includes 5 days of practical training.

If placement or practical required, when?

Placement dates can be chosen to suit the learner once the threshold has been met.

This qualification includes theory and practical training: The theory element is studied online, at your own pace and with full tutor support. The practical training is carried out in partnership with our training providers - with excellent reputations and outstanding teaching staff, providing individual training placements and ensuring excellent outcomes for our students.

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy placements are being done in Northamptonshire.

Additional requirements

Learners can become a member of the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) or the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (NARCH) following completion of this course.

Certification Timeframe

Learners can expect their certification within 6 months of completing the course, following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance of assessment.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

When studying the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists) you will be asked to show your knowledge and provide evidence of your studies. 

Assessment will take the form of a range of in-depth theory assessments for each unit. Your written online assessments will be marked by a tutor.

When are you assessed?

As you’re in control of how you learn, you’re also in charge of when you hand in your assignments. 

This enables you to take as long as you need to thoroughly understand the unit before completing any assignments.  

SEG Awards

SEG Awards logo

After completion, students will be awarded the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists).

To achieve this qualification, learners must achieve 44 credits.

This course is approved by the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA).

Skills and Education Group Awards offer qualifications and assessments which are regulated by CCEA, Ofqual and Qualifications Wales. They are driven by delivering a high-quality and trusted service to Centres and learners, so that everyone gets the education they deserve.

This qualification has been designed as a top-up qualification for Physiotherapist Professionals who would like to expand their medical training and contribute to their continued professional development.

Students who have completed the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Physiotherapists), can apply for a membership at the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT) and the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA).

Frequently Asked Questions

Combining animal physiotherapy and hydrotherapy offers a more comprehensive approach to animal rehabilitation. Physiotherapy with massage and exercises strengthens muscles and improves joint mobility, while hydrotherapy's buoyancy allows for pain-free movement, faster healing, and increased range of motion, leading to optimal recovery and wellbeing for your pet.
Veterinary physiotherapists who train in small animal hydrotherapy expand their treatment toolbox. Hydrotherapy's low-impact, water-based exercises complement physiotherapy's manual techniques, offering pain management, improved mobility, and faster recovery for pets, making them a more well-rounded veterinary rehab specialist.
This hydrotherapy for physiotherapists course equips you to treat small animals. It covers the fundamentals (water properties, equipment) and safety aspects of hydrotherapy centres. You'll learn about common conditions treated with hydrotherapy and how it benefits their recovery. The course also provides hands-on training in patient assessment, treatment execution, aftercare, and communication with veterinary teams. Additionally, it delves into advanced aquatic treadmill therapy and responsible business practices within a hydrotherapy centre.
This hydrotherapy course for physiotherapists will elevate your career by making you a more well-rounded veterinary rehab specialist. You'll master a sought-after technique that allows you to treat a wider range of conditions, potentially attracting new clients and justifying higher fees for this specialised service.
Yes, you can! Our course is designed with flexibility in mind. You’ll study the theory online and then gain essential hands-on experience during a number of practical training days. This enables you to fit this training more easily around your existing work commitments.

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists (RQF)

Key Points

  • Learn about the benefits of hydrotherapy
  • Complete this qualification within the year
  • Meets the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) membership requirements
  • Gain membership with IAAT
  • Contribute to your CPD
  • Includes a 5-day practical placement in a Covid-secure venue
  • Choice of placement locations available 

About your Course

The Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists) has been specifically designed for Veterinary Physiotherapists who want to add to their skillset and further their professional development in animal hydrotherapy.

This Ofqual regulated qualification is suitable for qualified animal and veterinary physiotherapists. The qualification includes online theory and 5 days of practical experience in gait analysis, hydrotherapy, and aquatic treadmill training at a choice of locations.

The Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) recognises this qualification as part of their criteria for joining their membership for qualified Small Animal Hydrotherapists.

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists (RQF) (CHA%201.webp)

Getting Started

learndirect is the UK’s leading online course provider. Our online courses give you the flexibility to engage with your studies whenever suits you best.

The benefit of online learning means that you can plan your studies around your existing commitments. So, you’re able to progress with your learning in a way that works for you, without the stressful balancing act. With no classes to attend or a timetable to stick to, you’re in control of the pace and place of your learning.

What’s more, we have dedicated and experienced online tutors to support you throughout your course. As well as all the material being readily available as soon as you enrol so you’re able to start right away.

You will have access to the course for 2 years.

Modules

Unit 1: Introduction to Small Animal Hydrotherapy 

 On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand what hydrotherapy is
  • Understand the properties of water
  • Know the equipment used in hydrotherapy
  • Understand the intended outcomes of hydrotherapy
  • Understand the health and safety requirements in a hydrotherapy centre
  • Understand legislation about hydrotherapy

Unit 2: Conditions Presented for Hydrotherapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand orthopaedic conditions
  • Understand medical conditions
  • Understand neurological conditions
  • Understand how to manage conditions presented for hydrotherapy
  • Understand how hydrotherapy improves the condition and fitness of small animals

Unit 3: Water Maintenance, Balance and Testing

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the maintenance of hydrotherapy equipment
  • Understand how to administer water chemicals
  • Understand how to evaluate water test results

Unit 4: Practical Skills in Small Animal Hydrotherapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Be able to assess patients prior to treatment
  • Be able to prepare the environment for hydrotherapy treatment
  • Be able to prepare patients for hydrotherapy treatment
  • Be able to conduct hydrotherapy pool sessions
  • Be able to complete aftercare processes following hydrotherapy treatment
  • Be able to communicate feedback to members of the multidisciplinary team (MDT)

Unit 5: Practical Advanced Aquatic Treadmill Therapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Be able to conduct a gait analysis.
  • Understand the equipment used for advanced aquatic TM techniques
  • Be able to apply advanced aquatic TM techniques
  • Be able to review patient performance

Unit 6: Practical Aquatic Treadmill Treatment

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Be able to operate an aquatic treadmill
  • Understand the factors affecting patients in the aquatic treadmill
  • Understand patient suitability for the aquatic treadmill
  • Be able to create treadmill sessions for patients

Unit 7: Administration in a Hydrotherapy Centre

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the importance of continual professional development
  • Understand professional conduct within a hydrotherapy centre
  • Understand the roles and responsibilities of staff within a hydrotherapy centre
  • Understand hydrotherapy centre administration

Unit 8: Assessing Suitability of Animals for Hydrotherapy

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the importance of veterinary referral
  • Understand how to health check small animals
  • Know the members of the Multi-disciplinary team (MDT)
  • Understand how to assess the suitability of patients for hydrotherapy

Unit 9: Animal Behaviour

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand small animal behaviour concerning safe handling for hydrotherapy
  • Understand small animal body language

Unit 10: First Aid for Small Animals

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the primary aims of first aid
  • Understand how to manage different types of emergencies
  • Be able to apply first aid to small animals

Unit 11: Tissue Healing

On completion of this unit you will:

  • Understand the tissue healing processes
  • Understand the factors affecting tissue healing
  • Understand pain and its effect on hydrotherapy treatment planning
  • Understand the timing of hydrotherapy in relation to tissue healing

Entry Requirements

Learners should be aged 16 or above and will need to provide evidence of Vet or Veterinary Nurse qualifications in order to enrol on this course.

Minimum Age restriction

16

Average completion timeframe

You have 24 months to complete your course.

Assessment requirements

You will be assessed via a combination of video and photo submissions, your supervisor will also need to provide witness testimonies.

Placement or Practical required

This course includes 5 days of practical training.

If placement or practical required, when?

Placement dates can be chosen to suit the learner once the threshold has been met.

This qualification includes theory and practical training: The theory element is studied online, at your own pace and with full tutor support. The practical training is carried out in partnership with our training providers - with excellent reputations and outstanding teaching staff, providing individual training placements and ensuring excellent outcomes for our students.

Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy placements are being done in Northamptonshire.

Additional requirements

Learners can become a member of the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) or the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (NARCH) following completion of this course.

Certification Timeframe

Learners can expect their certification within 6 months of completing the course, following the (EQA) External Quality Assurance of assessment.

Course Fees

All course fees, inclusive of all payment plans including our Premium Credit Limited option, must be settled before certification can be ordered.

*You will have access to the course for 24 months.

Excellent Marking

Assessment

When studying the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists) you will be asked to show your knowledge and provide evidence of your studies. 

Assessment will take the form of a range of in-depth theory assessments for each unit. Your written online assessments will be marked by a tutor.

When are you assessed?

As you’re in control of how you learn, you’re also in charge of when you hand in your assignments. 

This enables you to take as long as you need to thoroughly understand the unit before completing any assignments.  

Qualifications

SEG Awards

SEG Awards logo

After completion, students will be awarded the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Veterinary Physiotherapists).

To achieve this qualification, learners must achieve 44 credits.

This course is approved by the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA).

Skills and Education Group Awards offer qualifications and assessments which are regulated by CCEA, Ofqual and Qualifications Wales. They are driven by delivering a high-quality and trusted service to Centres and learners, so that everyone gets the education they deserve.

This qualification has been designed as a top-up qualification for Physiotherapist Professionals who would like to expand their medical training and contribute to their continued professional development.

Students who have completed the Level 3 Diploma in Small Animal Hydrotherapy (Top up for Physiotherapists), can apply for a membership at the International Association of Animal Therapists (IAAT) and the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA).

Frequently Asked Questions

Combining animal physiotherapy and hydrotherapy offers a more comprehensive approach to animal rehabilitation. Physiotherapy with massage and exercises strengthens muscles and improves joint mobility, while hydrotherapy's buoyancy allows for pain-free movement, faster healing, and increased range of motion, leading to optimal recovery and wellbeing for your pet.
Veterinary physiotherapists who train in small animal hydrotherapy expand their treatment toolbox. Hydrotherapy's low-impact, water-based exercises complement physiotherapy's manual techniques, offering pain management, improved mobility, and faster recovery for pets, making them a more well-rounded veterinary rehab specialist.
This hydrotherapy for physiotherapists course equips you to treat small animals. It covers the fundamentals (water properties, equipment) and safety aspects of hydrotherapy centres. You'll learn about common conditions treated with hydrotherapy and how it benefits their recovery. The course also provides hands-on training in patient assessment, treatment execution, aftercare, and communication with veterinary teams. Additionally, it delves into advanced aquatic treadmill therapy and responsible business practices within a hydrotherapy centre.
This hydrotherapy course for physiotherapists will elevate your career by making you a more well-rounded veterinary rehab specialist. You'll master a sought-after technique that allows you to treat a wider range of conditions, potentially attracting new clients and justifying higher fees for this specialised service.
Yes, you can! Our course is designed with flexibility in mind. You’ll study the theory online and then gain essential hands-on experience during a number of practical training days. This enables you to fit this training more easily around your existing work commitments.
OUR PASS RATE
Animal Care & Veterinary Science
86.8%
(National Average 74.9%)
Online &
Practical Learning
11 units
326 guided
learning hours

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