Rehab and Wellness Canine Massage

Canine Wellness Massage is a systematic approach to working with the soft tissues and energy fields of the body towards a desired physiological and psychological outcome. Often these desired outcomes include relaxation, improved body awareness and flexibility, and the promotion of overall health and wellness.

We also offer Canine Rehab Massage, which is a site-specific treatment with a precise goal in mind. Often useful after an injury or operation, Canine Rehab Massage addresses a particular complaint or issue and focuses on the management of inflammation, the minimizing of soft tissue adhesions and scarring, and the return of normal range of motion to the joints. A referral from a veterinarian will be required before a Canine Rehab massage can be scheduled.

​If you aren't sure which type of massage is right for your dog, please contact us so we can help you find the perfect fit.

Benefits of Massage: Wellness Massage vs Rehab Massage

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Wellness Massage

• Promotes relaxation and emotional well-being.
• Increases flexibility.
•  Increases flow for proper nutrient distribution.
• Provides a sense of ease and comfort (particularly to geriatric animals).
• Relieves Muscle Tension and Soreness
• Strengthens the Immune System​

Rehab Massage

• Helps to manage inflammation
• Minimizes soft tissue adhesions and scarring
• ​Decreases Inflammation and Swelling
• Strengthens Damaged Tissues and Speeds Recovery Time
• Increases Blood Flow and Promote Lymphatic Drainage
• Promotes Tissue Healing
• Reduces Chronic or Acute Pain

Conditions That Benefit From Massage: Wellness Massage vs Rehab Massage

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Wellness Massage

• Stiff and achy joints from Osteoarthritis.
• Sore muscles from highly active animals such as agility dogs.
• Pre and post- operative areas (when approved by a veterinarian).
• Sore and stiff muscles brought on by obesity and old age.
• Stress and anxiety brought on by specific events or environments.
• Muscle fatigue brought on by body imbalances, injury or disability (missing limbs.)

Rehab Massage

• ​​Injuries To The Soft Tissues Of The Body (muscles, ligaments, tendons)
• Neurological Injuries, Abnormalities and Degenerative Conditions
• Post Surgical Symptoms
• Weekend Warrior Symptoms- overuse of untrained muscles

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What To Expect: Wellness Massage vs Rehab Massage

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Wellness Massage:
The session length is determined by the size of the animal as well as their tolerance to the session.  While the practitioner has a basic massage routine, what the session actually looks like is guided by the pet.  Some animals are very receptive to the work and allow the practitioner to do a whole body routine.  Others can tolerate only small doses of the work or techniques done on only certain parts of their body.  The session could last only a few minutes or could go upwards of 30-45 minutes.

Rehab Massage:
A referral from a veterinarian will be required before a Canine Rehab massage can be scheduled. After an initial assessment, your practitioner will tailor the session to your dog's specific needs while working closely with your veterinarian.  A session could focus on just one part of the body or it could include multiple body parts.  Traditional massage techniques will be applied and could be used in combination with other rehab techniques such as stretching or cold laser therapy.   The session length is determined by your dog's specific needs and their tolerance level but could be as long as 60 to 120 minutes. We always work closely with your veterinarian to ensure the best possible care for your pet.

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Canine Massage is a compliment to veterinary care and is NOT meant to treat or diagnose. A referral from a veterinarian will be required before a Canine Rehab massage can be scheduled.