Therapeutic massage therapy for dogs.
Our beloved dogs can experience the same joint and muscle issues as ourselves… but they can’t tell us! Using gentle palpation I can pinpoint any particular issues and work to loosen soft tissues to release tension, relieve pain, increase range of movement etc.
Whether you have a working dog, agility dog or just a well loved pet I can tailor-make an individual treatment programme for them.
Benefits of massage therapy for dogs include:
- Decreased pain
- Reduced lameness
- Lower stress levels reducing anxiety
- Improved circulation and lymphatic flow
- Realignment of muscle fibres
- Relaxation and calmness
- Release of tissue and muscle tension
- Increased removal of toxins from the body
- Improved range of joint movement
- Assistance in recovery process for dogs who are rehabilitating from specific injury or surgery
- Reduction of scar tissue
- Aiding digestion
What are the signs of a possible problem with my dog?
- Lameness
- Behavioural changes - quieter than usual, reluctance to play, wanting to be on its own
- Not weightbearing on one or more limbs
- Difficulty going up and downstairs, reluctance to jump in the car
- Uneven gait
- Stiffness after exercise, even if it does wear off
- Change of body shape
- Loss of muscle tone
- Reluctance for certain areas to be groomed
- Excessive licking or chewing of a certain area, eg. legs, feet, over hips
- A dry nose in an otherwise healthy dog
- Change in tail carriage eg. held to one side.
What to expect on your first appointment with your dog
Initially we will have a telephone conversation to discuss the problems your dog is experiencing and whether or not massage is appropriate.
The first appointment will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hrs and will consist of:
- A detailed consultation where I will ask about your dog’s routine, diet, exercise regime, past and present medical issues and medication.
- Palpation – hands on the dog to assess any problem issues such as heat, swelling, muscle tonicity, alignment etc.
- Gait Analysis – I will watch your dog moving in walk and trot to assess how it moves from different angles and on different surfaces, up and down steps/stairs.
- How it sits and stands – How straight it moves, are there any signs of lameness etc.
- Massage – to release muscle tension, work on any specific problems.
- After care advice will be given.
It can take time to develop a trusting relationship with your dog so I recommend 3 treatments to start with and then depending on results will discuss a maintenance programme. If I don’t think I can help i will suggest an alternative therapy/vet.
Veterinary consent
Please note I work in accordance with the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and Exemptions Order 2015. Veterinary Consent for treatment is a legal requirement. Before I treat your dog you will need to have the Consent form signed by your vet and forwarded to me.