Advanced Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy
The Advanced Certificate is designed for canine hydrotherapists, rehabilitation practitioners, veterinarians, veterinary nurses, and animal health professionals looking to enhance their clinical skills in canine rehabilitation and hydrotherapy.
The course is an ideal starting point for veterinary nurses, technicians and other animal health professionals looking to start hydrotherapy and rehab clinics either for themselves or when adding to an existing veterinary clinic.
The course focuses on building a sound knowledge of canine biomechanics and movement in order to understand how to apply advanced underwater treadmill techniques and develop effective rehab programs. This includes developing skills in canine assessment, examination and palpation, the principles of hydrotherapy and how to apply these a wide range of orthopaedic, neurological and soft tissue conditions commonly seen in veterinary practice.
Course Modules
UNIT 1:0
Applied Canine Anatomy and Physiology including the skeletal, muscular, nervous and multifidus systems and the vagus nerve. The important fundamentals of canine anatomy and how each of these are relevant to hydrotherapy and rehabilitation.
UNIT 2.1
Canine gait patterns and biomechanics including forces, levers and their role in producing functional movement along with how these concepts aid us in detecting lameness and developing hydrotherapy treatment protocols.
UNIT 2.2
Patient assessment including visual observation and hands-on examination and palpation techniques for effective patient evaluations in a clinical setting. Methods of objective recording and monitoring techniques including muscle mass measurements, goniometry and a review of gait analysis systems currently available.
UNIT 3.1
Understanding the core concepts of hydrotherapy.
Reviewing up to date evidence-based theory and practice. How do the fundamental principles of hydrotherapy actually apply to real life patients? Does the science support what we are seeing in practice and how can we develop our understanding further to benefit our patients?
UNIT 3.2
Advanced Underwater Treadmill.
Applying aids and techniques to both static and in-motion hydrotherapy.
UNIT 4.1
Developing Treatment Plans
How to devise, instigate and review effective treatment plans for your hydrotherapy patients. Understanding the limitations of hydrotherapy and rehab and how to support patients and their owners in order to optimise patient outcomes.
UNIT 4.2
The Healing Process
UNIT 5.0
Common Orthopaedic Conditions and hydrotherapy applications
UNIT 5.1
Common Neurological Conditions
UNIT 5.2
Common Muscle and Soft Tissue Disorders
UNIT 6.1
Co-morbidities of Canine Hydrotherapy Patients
UNIT 6.1
Pain
UNIT 7.1
Imaging in Rehabilitation
Radiography, CT, MRI and Ultrasound.
UNIT 7.2
Complementary Therapies
Photobiomodulation (Laser), TENS, EMNS, Shockwave, PEMF, Acupuncture & Dry Needling. A review of theory, application and clinical case examples used in combination with hydrotherapy.
UNIT 8.0
Developing your clinical practice.
Where to go from here? How to apply the knowledge gained here to develop your own skills and further your career.
Course Structure
LEARNING MODULES
Eight modules completed at the students pace, each of which is followed by a multiple choice quiz.
Following enrolment.
Two modules will be released each month until completion.
PRATICAL WORKSHOP
Students will attend a 2 day hands-on workshop where they will gain practical experience assessing patients and applying advanced techniques in one of our canine underwater treadmills.
Several workshop dates will be available throughout the year with strictly capped student numbers
If you're unable attend this workshop onsite there is a option for online attendence for a addiotnal fee, please reach out to our team for any further questions.
CASE STUDIES
Following the practical workshop, students are required to submit two case studies,
one of which will be selected for presentation as part of the final examination.
WORK PLACEMENTS
20 hours of practical work placement/experience within an approved Hydrotherapyand Rehab Centre.
FINAL EXAM AND CERTIFICATIONS
The final exam will comprise a 30 minute one-on-one video call during which you will present and discuss your case studies.
You will then be emailed your certificate and a hard copy will be sent by mail.
Delivery Format
SELF-PACED ONLINE LEARNING
Study at your own pace with flexible access to course materials anytime, anywhere.Online modules deliver in depth knowledge and evidence based theory Followed by a multiple choice quiz.
WORK PLACEMENT (IF REQUIRED)
Students will need to complete 20 hours of work placement at a suitable clinic prior to sitting their exam.
PRACTICAL WORKSHOP
The course includes a 2 day intensive workshop held over a weekend to develop your practical skills. There are several workshop dates throughout the year held at our Blue Mountains Rehab Clinic.
(If unable attend will need to contact our team -online attendance is possible although fees will apply)
FINAL EXAM
Following completion of the case studies.
SUPPORT
Small intake numbers to ensure continued support from our team of qualified hydrotherapists.
Payment Options
We aim to provide a high-quality, comprehensive learning experience that combines online theory, practical training and work placement support, giving you the skills and confidence to succeed in canine hydrotherapy for rehabilitation.
For this reason enrolment numbers will be strictly limited to ensure our students are well supported.
Initial Intake $7,499
This initial intake offer will end on July 31st, 2026.
A second intake will be opened later in the year. Date to be confirmed.
Fees for this second intake will be $10,499.
Study at your own pace with flexible access to course materials anytime, anywhere.Online modules deliver in depth knowledge and evidence based theory Followed by a multiple choice quiz.
UPFRONT PLAN A:
Pay $7,499 at enrolement to cover the full course fee.
INSTALMENT PLAN A:
Pay $1,799 at enrolment followed by 4 monthly instalments of $1,500 until the full course fee is covered.
INSTALMENT PLAN B:
Pay $1,105 at enrolment followed by 11 monthly instalments of $595 until the full course fee is covered.
WORK SHOP ATTENDANCE.
Work shop attendence is available remotely. A additional fee of $350 will be payable at the time to access practical skills via video submission.
FAQ
WHO IS THIS COURSE SUITABLE FOR?
This course is designed for canine hydrotherapists, veterinary professionals, physiotherapists, animal rehabilitation practitioners, dog trainers and pet care professionals who want to specialise in canine hydrotherapy for rehabilitation.
DO I NEED PRIOR QUALIFCATIONS?
Ideally an initial qualification in canine hydrotherapy and/or rehabilitation is recommended. However, experienced vets, veterinary nurses, animal physiotherapists or rehab professionals are welcomed.
HOW IS THIS COURSE DELIVERED?
The course is primarily delivered via self-paced online learning, combined with a 2 day practical workshop. Following this workshop students will be Required to submit two case studies, one of which they will present and
elevate as part of their final exam via one on one live video conference.
If you're unable attend this workshop onsite there is a option for online attendence for a addiotnal fee, please reach out to our team for any further questions.
HOW MUCH DOES THIS COURSE COST?
• First intake: $7,499 AUD (OFFER ENDS JULY 31ST 2026)
• Future intakes: $10,499 AUD
Flexible payment plans are available. Please note: the course must be fully paid before accessing 2 day workshop and final exam.
WHAT ABOUT WORK PLACEMENT?
Students will be required to complete 20 hours of practical work placement/training prior to sitting their final exam. Students can choose an accredited centre from our list or arrange placement at a suitable facility.
If you own a clinic or already work at a suitable facility, your required practical hours may be reduced. Please let us know so we can tailor your work placement requirements accordingly.
HOW LONG DOES THIS COURSE TAKE?
The course can be completed in approximately 12 months, depending on your pace and mode of study. If the course is not completed within 2 years after enrolment, it will be deferred and a deferment fee will be incurred.
HOW CAN I GET MY OWN CENTRE ACCREDITED?
Yes. If you own or work at a suitable facility, please contact us to explore accreditation options.
WHAT TYPE OF ASSESSMENTS ARE INCLUDED?
Each online module is followed by a multiple choice quiz required to compete the module. Students should have completed all online modules prior to their practical workshop.
ARE PAYMENT PLANS AVAIABLE?
Yes. Flexible monthly payment plans are available to make the course more accessible. Options include instalments tailored to suit your needs.
IS THE WORKSHOP COMPULSORY?
Yes. The course includes a 2 day practical workshop. If you are unable to attend in person. A online option is available with further fees applied. Please contact our team for further information.
• Assessments: During the workshop, practical assessments are conducted.
• Facilities & Networking: We provide a list of nearby hotels & transportation options. Morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea will be provided over the two days. Students will be supplied with a study materials and a take home pack.
WHAT IS THE REFUND POLICY?
A 7 day cooling-off period applies from the date of purchase. No refunds are available after this period. For students on a payment plan, the full course balance remains payable even if you choose to discontinue.
IS SUPPORT AVAIABLE THROUGHOUT THE COURSE?
Yes. Our team is available via email Monday to Friday 9am - 5pm AEST to answer questions, provide guidance and support your learning journey.
WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR MORE INFORMATION?
Our team is available to answer questions about enrolment, course content, practical placements and payment plans. Contact us directly via email for personalised support.
IS THIS COURSE ACCREDITED?
We are in the process of finalising formal accreditation. Upon completion, you will receive the Advanced Certificate in Canine Hydrotherapy along with official accreditation once the process is complete.