All accreditations

Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (a sub-group of IRVAP)

Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists Registered Canine Hydrotherapist

What this means for your pet

An ICH-tagged practitioner is qualified specifically in canine hydrotherapy, holds appropriate insurance, and is bound by IRVAP's Code of Conduct with annual CPD requirements. As with all IRVAP members, the practitioner can be verified on the IRVAP public register.

About this accreditation

The Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (ICH) is the canine hydrotherapy sub-group of IRVAP. It sets the standards for professionalism and clinical proficiency in canine clinical hydrotherapy. ICH does not maintain a separate public register — members are listed on the shared IRVAP register and identified by their small animal hydrotherapy specialism.

Who can hold this accreditation

Members must hold a Level 3 certificate in canine hydrotherapy (rising to Level 4 from December 2025) and meet IRVAP's qualification, insurance, and CPD requirements. Members commit annually to the IRVAP Code of Conduct.

Referral requirement

Yes — legally required under the Veterinary Surgeons (Exemptions) Order 2015. A canine hydrotherapist must obtain veterinary referral before treating an animal.

Professional oversight

Continuing Professional Development

Annual CPD required and audited via IRVAP

Complaints process

IRVAP Code of Conduct and complaints procedure

Insurance

Professional indemnity and public liability insurance required

Legal basis

Veterinary Surgeons (Exemptions) Order 2015

Accredited providers (192)

Quick facts

Abbreviation

ICH

Issuing body

Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (a sub-group of IRVAP)

Type

professional body

Protected title

No

Practitioner is a vet

No

Providers listed

192

External links

Institute of Canine Hydrotherapists (a sub-group of IRVAP) websiteOfficial register