Doggies paddle at canine pool

Pets with aches and pains can try treatments like reiki massage and hydrotherapy at Aquapaws in Barton-on-Sea in the New Forest.

Dogs don an animal-sized life jacket for a dip in the heated pool, opened by Chris and Gaynor Warriner three years ago.

Some vets are even referring canine patients to help them recover from bone injuries.

" I wouldn't see the wife suffer, so why should my pet suffer? "
Dog owner, Aquapaws

Carolyn Cross, who gives canine customers shiatsu massage, said: "People think it's a little bit off the wall, a little bit off beat, but if anything is going to help their animal they are prepared to try it. And it works."

Gaynor Warriner said: "People don't want drugs anymore, they want to get themselves and their animals treated naturally."

Husband Chris said: "It's not a luxury - it's a necessity with a lot of animals, especially those who have problems with their legs and backs."

One owner whose dog visits the clinic for a regular swim said: "Well, don't they deserve it? They are our pets and if you get a dog, a dog is for life.

"I wouldn't see the wife suffer, so why should my pet suffer?"