Overview of Hydrotherapy Testing
Hydrotherapy pools operate at elevated temperatures that can encourage bacterial growth if water quality is not properly controlled.
Regular microbiological testing helps ensure that disinfection systems are working effectively and that water remains safe for both canine and human use.
HSG282 & PWTAG Aligned
Indicator Organism Monitoring
Clear Laboratory Reporting
Flexible Sampling Service
Why hydrotherapy testing is important?
Warm water, organic matter introduced by users, and complex filtration systems can create conditions where bacteria may proliferate. Without routine monitoring, contamination may go undetected.
Regular testing helps to:
- Assess effectiveness of disinfection
- Detect early signs of contamination
- Support compliance with recognised guidance
- Protect pool users from infection risk
Compliance with HSG282 Guidance
HSG282 provides recommendations for the safe management of spa and hydrotherapy pools. Regular testing supports compliance by:
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Verifying that disinfection regimes are operating effectively
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Confirming filtration and circulation systems are functioning correctly
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Monitoring microbiological water quality
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Supporting documented water safety controls
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Providing demonstrable evidence of due diligence
Risk Management and Early Detection
Hydrotherapy pools require proactive monitoring to control bacterial risk. Routine microbiological sampling helps to:
- Detect early signs of contamination
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Identify organisms such as Pseudomonas and Legionella
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Monitor trends in bacterial levels over time
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Enable timely corrective action
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Reduce operational disruption
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Maintain a safe therapeutic environment
Canine Hydrotherapy Water Testing
Hydrotherapy pools used for canine rehabilitation and conditioning require strict microbiological monitoring to ensure animal safety and regulatory compliance.
Our laboratory provides the full suite of microbiological testing required by the Canine Hydrotherapy Association (CHA) and the National Association of Registered Canine Hydrotherapists (NARCH).
Parameters we test
- Legionella species
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Pseudomonas aeruginosa
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Escherichia coli
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Total Coliforms
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Total Viable Count where required
Testing is carried out using validated methods within a controlled laboratory environment, providing reliable and defensible results.
Flexible and practical sampling
We understand that hydrotherapy centres operate on busy treatment schedules. Our services allows you to take water samples at a time that is convenient to your facility, without being tied into long-term contracts.
Sterile sampling kits are supplied with clear instructions to support correct collection and sample integrity.
Clear reporting for inspecting and compliance
Results are reported clearly and in line with CHA and NARCH expectations. Where action levels are exceeded, we provide guidance to support appropriate corrective measures and retesting.
Our aim is to provide a straightforward, professional testing service that supports both animal welfare and regulatory assurance.
Microbiological Results and Recommended Actions
Aerobic Colony Count (Total Viable Count at 37°C)
| Microbiological Result | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| >10 cfu (and no other unsatisfactory results) | Review disinfectant and pH levels. If within recommended ranges, repeat sampling to confirm result. |
| >100 cfu/mL | Immediately review treatment system and testing records. Implement corrective measures as necessary and resample following intervention. |
Coliforms and Escherichia coli
| Microbiological Result | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| Coliforms ≤10 cfu/100 ml (with no E. coli and acceptable TVC) | Continue monitoring. Ensure disinfectant and pH remain within recommended ranges. |
| Coliforms detected on repeat sample or >10 cfu/100 ml | Investigate possible contamination source. Review disinfection regime. Consider partial or full system remediation and retesting. |
| E. coli detected (any level) | Immediate corrective action required. Review hygiene controls and disinfectant levels. Resample following corrective measures. |
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
| Microbiological Result | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| 10–50 cfu/100 ml | Take repeat sample. Clean balance tank (if present), cleanse filters, and increase disinfectant levels as required. Review circulation and treatment system. |
| >50 cfu/100 ml | Close facility to users. Shock dose system (e.g., elevated free chlorine), drain and disinfect as required. Review risk assessment and control measures. Refill and retest following corrective action. |
Legionella
| Microbiological Result | Recommended Action |
|---|---|
| <100 cfu/l | Continue routine monitoring and maintain control measures. |
| 100–1000 cfu/l | Review control measures and risk assessment. Implement remedial actions as required. Resample to confirm control. |
| >1000 cfu/l | Immediate system shutdown and remedial action. Review and revise control measures. Retest following corrective intervention. |
Testing typically includes Total Viable Count (TVC), Coliform bacteria, Escherichia coli (E.coli), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These organisms act as indicators of water hygiene and potential contamination.
Water testing frequency can depend on the guidance or standards being followed, as well as the type of system and associated risk level. While some guidance recommends quarterly testing, many customers choose to carry out monthly testing as part of their routine monitoring programme.
We can provide sampling kits including sterile sample bottles, along with guidance to support correct sample collection. Samples can usually be taken directly from the water source using a dip sample method or collected from a designated outlet or sampling point where fitted.
For pool and hydrotherapy sampling, we also provide clear sampling guidance to help ensure accurate and reliable results.
If Legionella species or Pseudomonas aeruginosa are detected, resutls are reported clearly with reference to relevant guidance and action levels. Total Viable Count (TVC) levels can vary depending on the type of system and its normal operating conditions, and our team is ahppy to discuss what may be considered for your setup.
Where required, we can advise on appropriate corrective actions, which may include system disinfection, review of maintenance procedures, and repeat sampling to help confirm remediation.
Our team is also available to discuss results and support you in restoring compliance promptly and effectively.
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