WHAT IS CANINE MASSAGE THERAPY:

Canine Massage Therapy is the therapeutic application of hands-on deep tissue techniques to the voluntary muscular system. Massage can help reduce symptoms of ageing, increase flexibiblity, influence recovery from injury, ease pain and enhance rehabilitation. Deep tissue Massage has been shown to significantly reduce stress related nervous activity. Deep tissue techniques can help to increase circulation, reduce muscle spasm and relieve tension. These effects combine to enhance muscle tone thus promoting healing and increasing the range of motion in all breeds of dogs.

TREATMENT:

The massage can be done on a dog standing or lying down, if the dog is not accustomed to massage then a gradual introduction will benefit, as the dog may not want to lie down on the initial session. The massage session may range from 20 to 40 minutes in duration. The massage will vary depending on the needs of the individual dog:-

• Relaxation or Conditioning Massage for your companion animal or show dog.
  
  
• Sports or Maintenance Massage for working, gun and agility dogs.
  
  
• Rehabilitation for post-injury.
  
• Calming Massage for rescue or anxious dogs.
  

THE BENEFITS:

Some benefits you may expect:

• Reduces muscular tension and soreness to increase mobility
  
  
• Influences connective tissues and joints improving flexibility
  
  
• Can reduce swelling and scarring
  
  
• Speeds recovery from injury or illness
  
  
• Induces relaxation by modulating the heart rate and breathing
  
  
• Anticipates potential problems
  
  
• Helps clear toxins by enhancing blood flow and lymphatic drainage

CONDITIONS THAT MAY RESPOND FAVOURABLY:

• Sports injuries or performance related problems in the working or Agility dog
  
  
• Reduced mobility, stiffness and muscle weakness in older animals
  
  
• Post injury, trauma to muscle, ligament or tendon
  
  
• Hyperactive, stressed or anxious dogs.
  
  
• Pain from muscular skeletal origin, muscle spasms.
  
  
• Post surgical recovery, where applicable.