A 15 minute consultation before the massage commences gives a full understanding of your dog’s history, exercise, behaviour, habitual patterns and diet. This is followed by gait and postural analysis along with a full body palpation and muscle balance to assess areas of tension, muscles that may be overcompensating for other muscle groups unable to function correctly, and any areas being impeded by scarring or old injuries. Importantly you are encouraged to be in the room and observe your dogs full treatment.

The massage commences with some light classical Swedish techniques and then moves into deeper bodywork. Some dogs settle into the massage straight away and other dogs may need a little time to adapt which is normal.

Each massage is totally unique and no ‘routine’ is followed to allow each and every dog to receive the most beneficial massage to them in the areas they need it most. Each massage is adapted and adjusted to suit the individual dog with their needs, the way they physically respond and their body language being taking into account throughout the session. It should be noted that the Canine Massage Therapy Centre acknowledges and respects the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and Exemption Order 1962 by never working upon an animal without gaining prior veterinary approval and your vet is sent a full Post Treatment Report after your dog's treatment is completed.

It is imperative that your dog is kept quiet for 24-48 hours after the massage and has a light meal, plenty of rest and constant access to water as the body rebalances itself and responds to the bodywork which has been performed.

A cleansing and purifying state occurs as the body attempts to dispel toxins and metabolic waste and return to homeostasis; that is a return to a state of equilibrium and natural balance so the body may function normally and naturally.