A step‑by‑step UK career guide explaining training via iPET Network qualifications to help become an Equine Hydrotherapist, career prospects, earnings, and employers.
What Does an Equine Hydrotherapist Do?
Equine Hydrotherapists use water‑based therapies (treadmills, pools, spas) to:
Rehabilitate horses after injury or surgery (tendon/ligament, orthopaedic cases).
Support conditioning and fitness for performance and competition horses.
Improve mobility, muscle strength, and cardiovascular function.
Provide controlled, low‑impact exercise to manage chronic musculoskeletal conditions.
Work under veterinary referral and alongside vets, physiotherapists, and farriers.
Hydrotherapy is growing in the UK due to demand for advanced rehabilitation services in racing, competition, and welfare settings.
The training route (UK)
Why Choose iPET Network for Equine Hydrotherapy Training?
iPET Network is an Ofqual‑regulated Awarding Organisation, with sector‑recognised qualifications designed specifically for animal therapies. Our Equine Hydrotherapy pathway is highly practical, flexible, and cost‑effective compared to full degree routes.
Level 6 Diploma in Equine Hydrotherapy (Applied) – professional, specialist qualification for Hydrotherapists.
Level 6 Diploma in Equine Hydrotherapy (Clinical) – advanced practice, including vet‑led rehabilitation protocols.
Equine Hydrotherapist Training Costs (UK)
Level 3–5 Diplomas (massage/rehab): £2,500–£4,000 each (provider dependent).
Level 6 Equine Hydrotherapy Diplomas: £5,000–£6,500 (varies by centre, includes practical placements and assessment).
Total iPET pathway investment: £8,000–£12,000 (significantly less than a 3‑ or 4‑year university veterinary physiotherapy degree, which often exceeds £30,000 in fees alone).
Comparison: iPET Network vs Degree Route
Pathway
Duration
Cost (approx.)
Outcomes
Best for
iPET Network (L3 → L6 Hydrotherapy)
12–24 months (modular, flexible)
£8k–£12k
Professional hydrotherapist, employable in rehab centres or self‑employed under veterinary referral
Learners seeking a quicker, practical, cost‑effective route
Veterinary Physiotherapy Degree (BSc/MSc)
3–4 years full‑time
£27k–£36k (tuition fees only)
Veterinary physiotherapist (eligible for NAVP, RAMP, IRVAP membership)
Those seeking wider physiotherapy scope, including musculoskeletal manual therapies
Human Physio (BSc) + MSc Veterinary Physio (ACPAT route)
5–6 years total
£40k+ (tuition fees)
Chartered Physiotherapist (ACPAT Cat A) with animal scope
Students aiming for dual human + animal physiotherapy careers
For most aspiring Equine Hydrotherapists, the iPET Network qualifications route offers the fastest and most cost‑effective entry into the profession.
Step-by-Step: How to Become an Equine Hydrotherapist
Gain equine handling and yard experience.
Take the iPET Network Level 3 Equine First Aid qualification.
IRVAP (Institute of Registered Veterinary & Animal Physiotherapists) – includes hydrotherapists within its scope.
NAVP (National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists) – primarily physiotherapists but with rehab overlap.
ACPAT (Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy) – degree‑level physiotherapists only.
Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 – governs that all treatments must be with veterinary referral.
For Hydrotherapists specifically, iPET Network Level 6 qualifications provide the recognised professional benchmark for practice, ensuring employability and insurability.
Potential Equine Hydrotherapist Salary and Earnings in the UK
Employed Hydrotherapist (rehab centre/charity): £20,000–£30,000 entry, rising to £35,000+ with seniority.
Self‑employed: typically charge £40–£70 per hydrotherapy session; package/rehab programmes can exceed £100 per horse per week.
Event/racing contracts: higher, but variable and dependent on travel.
Royal Veterinary College (RVC) Equine Referral Hospital – leading teaching hospital with equine sports medicine and rehab services.
The Donkey Sanctuary – major welfare charity employing hydrotherapists in rehab and clinical teams.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary – national charity with long‑term musculoskeletal rehab facilities.
Many Hydrotherapists also find opportunities with independent equine rehabilitation centres, competition yards, and racing stables, where private referral work is common.
Next steps (action plan)
Step 1: Enrol on iPET Network Level 3 First Aid + Level 4 Animal Sports Massage.
Step 2: Shadow an equine hydrotherapy centre.
Step 3: Enrol on iPET Network Level 6 Diploma in Equine Hydrotherapy (Applied or Clinical).
Step 4: Build a case‑log portfolio and obtain insurance.
Step 5: Apply for roles in rehab centres or launch a mobile/self‑employed service.
Step 6: Join a professional register (e.g., IRVAP, RAMP) to demonstrate quality assurance.
