Do you enjoy getting a massage? Just like massage can help relax people, reduce pain, and even be part of healing from injuries, the same is true for our dogs. Canine massage therapists are trained in various massage techniques, assessment, and canine anatomy and work in collaboration with your dog’s veterinarian to help your dog feel their best. Canine massage therapists provide hands-on manipulation to a dog’s muscles to help reduce pain, support healing and help to alleviate some of the stiffness and challenges associated with aging.
What is canine massage therapy?
When people first hear about canine massage therapy, many assume it’s just petting a dog. This isn’t the case at all. Canine massage therapy is a therapeutic modality that can be used to support a wide variety of dogs. Dogs who get massages from qualified animal massage therapists can see a variety of health benefits. Massage can improve the range of motion and decrease discomfort and pain with movement. Massage can support your dog’s overall health and improve circulation and support with healing from surgery or injury. Massage can also help dogs age more comfortably by decreasing some of the impacts of degenerative conditions like arthritis. Massage is a proactive way to support active dogs and dogs that participate in high impact sports like flyball and agility, as well as prevent injuries from occurring in the first place.
Who are animal massage therapists
Animal massage therapists are veterinary professionals specifically trained to provide massages to animals, including dogs. Massage is a treatment modality that, when done correctly in conjunction with other veterinary care and rehabilitation, can support healing injuries, improve muscle function, and decrease pain and discomfort. Many canine massage therapists start as veterinary technicians and then continue their studies to specialize in massage. Canine massage therapists should be certified through the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure & Massage (NBCAAM). Your dog needs to get a massage from a certified massage therapist, as they will know the correct and safest ways to manipulate your dog’s muscles. Massage, if done by someone inexperienced and untrained, could cause injuries or lead to increased discomfort.
How Often Should Dogs Get Massaged?
A canine massage therapist and your dog’s veterinarian and/or your dog’s veterinary physical therapist will be able to help you develop a treatment plan for your dog, including how often your dog should get a massage. If your dog is healing from an acute injury, it may be suggested your dog have weekly or even twice-a-week massage sessions. On the other hand, if your dog is just getting a massage for maintenance, it may be recommended to get massaged monthly or on an as-needed basis when your dog seems stiff. Many animal massage therapists will also show owners how to safely do simple techniques appropriate for their dog’s specific conditions that can be done at home, between appointments to support your dog’s overall health or treatment plan.
Where to find an animal massage therapist
Your dog might benefit from a massage talk with your regular veterinary clinic. Most veterinarians will be able to provide you with a referral to an experienced and certified animal massage therapist in your local area. If your veterinarian doesn’t have a massage therapist referral, many animal massage therapists work directly with or in collaboration with veterinary physical therapists. Physical therapist-specialized veterinarians focus their work on rehabilitation and conditioning. These specialized clinics often offer an array of services, including hydrotherapy, acupuncture, structured stretching, and exercises to support dogs recovering from surgery or injuries, as well as massage.
