What does a massage session consist of?

A session consists of:

An initial consultation to determine the general health and fitness levels of the dog and to discuss past injuries and current concerns.

A gait analysis to assess how the dog walks and trots and to look for any irregularities in stride or movement or the way a dog holds its head or limbs which may indicate where problem areas are and the effects they are having on the dogs ability to move freely.

A static evaluation to allow the therapist to assess whether the dog is weight bearing evenly on all feet and to check for muscle tightness, tension, scarring, soreness, areas of sensitivity, heat or cold or any other indication that there may be problems in specific muscles. The static evaluation is also a chance for the dog to become more comfortable with the therapist and to relax prior to the massage itself.

A full body massage during which any areas of muscle tension can be given particular attention and each limb is put through a series of passive stretches in order to assess range of movement and to extend the stretch in the muscles beyond that normally achieved by the dog.

At the end of the massage advice will be given regarding after care treatment and suggestions made as to how to continue the benefits achieved by performing the massage.

Results can often be seen following only 1 session, however it is suggested that a dog has 2 follow up sessions over the next 3 weeks in order to see the best results. Longstanding conditions may require further sessions.

Following a massage:

Your dog may need to urinate more than normal.

Your dog may need to drink more than normal.

Leave your dog to relax on their own for at least an hour as they may be drowsy.

Allow recovery time of at least an hour before going for a walk.

Your dog may have a headache due to the release of neck tension.

Leave at least one hour before feeding your dog.

If your dog had areas of spasm that have been worked on they may be temporarily tender around the area.