Canine massage therapy can help to improve your dog’s mobility, recovery from injury and performance. Massage techniques are used to reduce muscular pain and inflammation and promote relaxation. Massage can help to alleviate pain from many musculoskeletal conditions, help to prevent further injury and to reduce tension in anxious dogs. For sporting and working dogs massage can help to optimise performance and reduce the risk of injury. As a non-invasive therapy it works well alongside other veterinary care. Targeted exercise plans and lifestyle changes can be recommended to support your dog.
To learn more about canine massage click here
Before your session I will have been in contact to discuss you and your dog’s requirements, concerns and medical history and to discuss veterinary consent.
Please ensure that your dog has not had a meal for 2 hours prior to your appointment.
Initial appointments are usually 1.5 hours. After arriving we will usually take some time to observe your dog and discuss any concerns and expectations for the session. I will take a complete history of your dog’s lifestyle, behaviour and activity at home - owners are fantastic at giving lots of information about how their dog is feeling!
During the first appointment I will conduct static and dynamic evaluation, looking at your dog’s gait and posture. I will use hands on palpation to assess your dog’s muscles and follow with a full body massage which is tailored to the needs of your dog. If appropriate I will also use red light therapy during the session. You are very welcome to stay with your dog for the duration of the session. I will usually assess and massage your dog on the floor using our large comfortable massage pad. However there is the option to use a massage table if your dog prefers.
At the end of the session I will give you aftercare advice and we can also discuss lifestyle changes and rehabilitation exercises which may benefit your dog.
Your dog may feel more tired after their session and should have short, on the lead, walks only for the next day to avoid strenuous exercise. They may feel more thirsty following and need to urinate more. These symptoms are normal for 24-48 hours following massage.
Red light therapy uses LED therapy as a non-invasive treatment tool to accelerate natural healing and provide drug free pain management for degenerative conditions - available to add on if appropriate during your dogs treatment.
This is not a problem at all! Dogs often like to move around during sessions or have short breaks. Most dogs will lie down and relax during the massage as we work with the parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for ‘rest and digest’. The session will be completely tailored to your dog’s needs.
In the days following your appointment I will contact you to follow up how you feel your dog has responded to the massage and to ensure that you do not have any concerns.
I will also send a report of your dog’s session to your vet to ensure that there is good communication with the veterinary team.
During your first session we will discuss your dog’s needs and recommended therapy plan. This will vary depending on each individual dog. 1-3 sessions usually show the best effects, however many dogs benefit from monthly maintenance sessions depending on their conditions.
Canine Massage therapists must work according to the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and Exemptions Order 2015. Owners must always consult their Veterinary Surgeon before seeking massage treatment. Healthy dogs do not always require a veterinary referral for maintenance care, however, all dogs must be registered with a veterinary surgeon. I will always refer a dog back to their vet should there be any indication of underlying health issues.
I am happy to liaise with your vets on your behalf to obtain consent for your dog.
Download veterinary consent form
Many insurance policies now include cover for complementary therapies such as canine massage. Please speak with your own insurer prior to your appointment if you would like to find out if the cost of your sessions will be covered.
Appointments are usually held at our relaxing clinic room in Spilsby, creating a calm environment for your dog. Home visits are available if preferred, however may incur a mileage charge depending on location. Please contact me to discuss your requirements.
Only vets are able to diagnose health conditions or injuries in your dog. If I have any concerns during your dog's assessment I will recommend that you make an appointment with your vet and can send a report detailing any findings or concerns.
To make your dog’s appointment book online or contact us
By phone on 07593 563 850
By email at woldscaninemassage@gmail.com
Olivia has completed canine massage & rehabilitation training with AIAT (The Academy of Integrative Animal Therapies), UK Rural Skills accredited, aligned to level 5. She is now a tutor for the course and enjoys working with new students who are also training to become therapists.
She is a member of IAAT (International Association of Animal Therapists), and completes a minimum of 25 hours of continuing professional development per year. She is also currently undertaking further training in small animal rehabilitation.
Olivia holds valid professional & public liability insurance and is dog first aid trained.
