Level 4 Award in Advanced Aquatic Treadmill Therapies

Course overview

This course is aimed at hydrotherapists who have already completed their
level 3 training and are working with an aquatic/underwater treadmill.

This course aims to develop the learner’s study skills and engage in
reflective practice, enhance clinical reasoning and critical thinking,
understand the importance of professional development and working within their
scope of practice, and recognise the legal, ethical, and professional standards,
obligations, and accountability required of a professional canine
hydrotherapist.

Learners will gain an understanding of aquatic treadmill equipment, its
maintenance, and the current health and safety standards in canine hydrotherapy.
Learners will also understand the components involved in canine assessment and
how to apply a clinical reasoned pathway to the process.

They will also understand the need for reassessment and outcome measures and
the communication that is required to complete this process successfully.
Additionally, learners will learn about therapeutic preparation, shower
techniques and health monitoring techniques. Learners will demonstrate manual
techniques, clinical reasoning, and advanced therapeutic exercise
techniques.

This qualification enables practitioners with experience of working with
canines and in small animal hydrotherapy to efficiently progress to Level 4
standard in aquatic treadmill therapies. You will need to provide own
wetsuit/waders.

Delivery Model

Learning will be a mixture between online and face-to-face study. Online =
self-paced by accessing pre-recorded lecturer and completing learning activities
combined with online tutorials, equivalent to one day per week.
On-campus = 5
days of practical sessions with canine patients.

What does a typical week look like?
2 days per week over 5 weeks. One day
of online study is to be completed each week prior to attending the practical
day. Coursework will also be required to be completed in addition to the study
outlined above.

How much theory vs practical study?
50% theory 50%
practical.

Entry Requirements
Learners must be 18 + years old 

This qualification is available to learners who have experience of working
with canines and who have already achieved an Ofqual-regulated Level 3
Certificate or Diploma in Small Animal/Canine/Canine Clinical Hydrotherapy.

There are no other formal entry requirements for this qualification; however,
due to the nature of the qualification content, those undertaking the
qualification must have a proficient level of spoken and written English (e.g.
GCSE Grade C / Grade 4 or above or equivalent).

PPE Requirements
A wetsuit plus water shoes or a pair of waders are
required for practical days. If wearing a wetsuit, it is advisable to bring a
fleece that can be worn over this when you are out of the water to stay warm
between patients.
Learner changing and showering facilities are available
next to the hydrotherapy suite.

Modules

1. Clinical Reasoning and Assessment Processes

In this unit, learners will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct comprehensive canine assessments within a clinically reasoned framework, ensuring accurate and reliable findings. Hydrotherapists must effectively evaluate risks, assess the suitability of canine patients for hydrotherapy, gather relevant data, and apply a clinical reasoning process to analyse this information. Learners will form the foundation for sound clinical decision-making, enabling the selection of appropriate techniques to provide each canine with a safe and effective treatment plan. Learners will develop a clear understanding of the assessment process as it relates to safe practice, emphasising the importance of operating within their professional competencies and scope of practice at all times.

2. Advanced Techniques in Aquatic Treadmill Therapy for Canine Hydrotherapists

In this unit, learners will develop their clinical competencies and proprioceptive treatment techniques when using an aquatic treadmill, with the goal of achieving positive outcomes for each canine client. Learners will apply their knowledge of canine assessment processes, behaviour, functional anatomy, breed biology, and the pathophysiology of underlying conditions to make informed decisions when selecting aquatic treatment techniques. Learners will combine clinical theory with practical application, ensuring that they are equipped to create tailored treatment plans that address the individual functional and mobility needs of each canine.

How will I be assessed?

Completion of portfolio, written assignments and demonstration of practical skill.

What is it like to be a student on this course?

Take your hydrotherapy practice to the next level by expanding your expertise in aquatic treadmill therapy. Designed for qualified canine hydrotherapists, this course is ideal if you’re looking to introduce underwater treadmill treatments into your practice or refine your existing clinical skills to provide even better outcomes for your patients.

Building on your current knowledge and experience, you’ll develop advanced clinical reasoning, assessment and decision-making skills while strengthening your reflective practice and professional development. You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of aquatic treadmill equipment, maintenance and safety, alongside advanced assessment techniques, reassessment strategies and outcome measurement.

You’ll also enhance your practical skills in therapeutic preparation, health monitoring, manual techniques and therapeutic exercise, giving you the confidence to create effective, evidence-informed treatment plans. The course is designed to fit around your existing work commitments, combining flexible online learning with practical training.

Each week, you’ll complete around one day of self-paced online study through live and recorded lectures, learning activities and online tutorials before attending a practical training day on campus. Over five weeks, you’ll spend five hands-on practical days working with canine patients, developing your skills in a supportive, real-world environment.

Industry links

https://www.narch.org.uk/Home/Index  – NARCH  https://www.irvap.org.uk/institute-of-canine-hydrotherapists – ICH   https://www.canine-hydrotherapy.org/ – CHA

Progression routes