Maintenance & Rehabilitative Massage
The benefits of massage have long been studied in humans and the results in animals are proving to be the same. Canine Massage is a holistic, hands-on therapy that involves the manipulation of the soft tissue structures of the body to prevent and alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasms, and stress rather than masking the issues with analgesics. It gives 100% drug-free pain relief.
‘Holistic’ means that the whole body is treated rather than just the injured spot. Often there is referred pain from the primary area of injury to another part of the body – the secondary area. 
The effects of massage are not just on the muscular system, but on all the systems of the body, so a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology is essential to ensure that no harm is done and that your dog benefits in every way from their treatment.
Massage Therapy improves the functioning of the circulatory, lymphatic, muscular, skeletal, digestive, nervous systems and skin and may improve the rate at which the body recovers after injury and illness.
When muscles are overworked, waste products such as lactic acid can accumulate in the muscles, causing soreness, stiffness and muscle spasms. Massage improves circulation, which increases blood flow, bringing fresh oxygen to body tissues. This can assist with the elimination of waste products, speed healing after injury, and enhance recovery from disease.
The results you should see, depending on the presenting problem, are:
- Freer movement, better posture
- Reduced stiffness
- Increased range of movement in joints
- Improved sporting performance
- Relief from pain and stress
- Improved appetite
- Improved skin and coat
- Able to get in and out of car
- Enjoys walks again
- Got their zest for life back
- Relief from chronic ongoing orthopedic and neurological conditions – it can’t cure them, but by easing the tension in over compensating muscles, it can offer temporary relief.
Is there any time that massage should not be performed?
There are several contraindications for massage. Massage should not be performed over open wounds, around unstable fractures, or when a dog is experiencing pain that is not yet appropriately controlled. Massage should be applied with caution in dogs with blood-clotting problems, and we should not massage directly over areas that are infected or over tumors.
Get in touch
If you think your dog would benefit from Canine Massage sessions or would like to know more about it, please contact Trish at 907.980.8026.
How much does it cost?
Initial Consultation
The initial consultation lasts
typically 1 ½ hours and costs $60.
This includes gait and static analysis, full clinical and life style history, and a 30-40 minute therapeutic massage.
Follow up appointments
Follow up half sessions last 30 to 40 minutes and cost $35. Full hour sessions $50.
Manual Lymphatic Drainage
Sessions are 60-90 minutes and cost $75.
Travel costs
For home visits outside of a 15 mile radius of Big Lake will be charged $20.
*Massage is not a substitute for proper veterinary care. Please consult your veterinarian for your pet’s fitness before starting any massage program.