Conventional and Holistic Medicine, Dentistry and Surgery for Small Animals

Massage Therapy For Your Companion Animal

Massage sessions are arranged by either scheduling an appointment or by scheduling to drop off your pet to stay with us for the day. This service can also be requested while your pet boards with us. Please call for further details.

Unlike human beings, our companion animals cannot verbally communicate to us if and where they are painful or sore. They can not say, “I am just sore today and I don’t feel up to any activities” Instead they may communicate in a non-verbal manner through different symptoms.
If your animal displays any, or all of the following symptoms, chances are they could be feeling some changes due to muscle tension and stress built up in their muscles: Stumbling or not placing feet correctly Refusing or resisting walking or leash equipment / tossing of their head Resisting stair climbing or jumping (on bed, couch or into car) Shortened strides, limping or skipped steps Poor disposition / behavioral change
Some possible contributing factors to the above symptoms: Athletic injuries (such as the “weekend athlete” who overdoes it) Arthritis or stiffness Inactivity due to injury, surgery, illness, age or obesity
Massage is thought to benefit elderly dogs, inactive dogs and dogs recovering from injuries or surgery by improving circulation of the blood and lymphatic system to the muscles and nervous system. Elderly dogs suffering from stiffness and arthritis often respond well to massage and begin to feel better, move easier and experience less pain. Massage is also thought to have behavioral benefits, such as helping to relax aggressive or hyperactive dogs or building confidence in shy, fearful dogs.
The following are effects of massage in the body: Pain reduction or relief of pain Increase oxygenation into muscles and tissues Increase elasticity of muscles Increase range of motion, flexibility, movement and stride length Increase performance level at shows and events and reduce recovery time. Release stress, tension and contracted muscles Bring about an increased sense of wellness in the mind, body and spirit. A general sense of calming and reduction of stress Decreased recovery time from surgery or trauma Removal of toxins from the body and its organs
Massage is not a substitute for veterinary care. It should be performed by a certified person under the counsel of your animal’s veterinarian. A veterinary certified massage and rehabilitation therapist is trained in anatomy, physiology, neurology, and to observe proper body movement and may decline to proceed with a massage treatment if the health of the patient is at risk. The techniques used for massage should only be used by a certified veterinary massage therapist however; the therapist may elect to show you some techniques that you may safely do at home in between each massage session. Despite the many positive aspects of massage, there are some situations in which massage may be a contraindicated treatment. Animals suffering from cancer, seizures, fever, shock, infection, open wounds and immune disease generally should not have massage performed on them unless directed by their DVM.