Canine Massage

Canine massage is a hands-on therapy that manipulates soft tissue structures to alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasms, and stress holistically.

In addition to the muscular system, massage affects all the systems of the body. Therefore, it is crucial to have a thorough understanding of anatomy and physiology to ensure that the treatment is beneficial and does not cause any harm to your dog.

• Athletic or physically active dogs
• Senior dogs
• Pups and newly adopted or rescued dogs
• Show dogs, Work dogs
• Arthritic dogs
• Dogs rehabilitating from surgery or emotional injury
• Massage is good for all dogs!

• Improves overall health and well-being by enhancing and balancing every system of your dog's body
• Increases oxygen to the cells
• Relieves tired and cramped muscles
• Increases range of motion
• Eases separation anxiety, shyness, grief, aggression
• Calms and reduces stress
• Reduces inflammation and swelling of joints
• Increases flexibility
• Eliminates toxins
• Enhances bonding with newly adopted dogs
• Relieves pain from arthritis and hip dysplasia
• Increases circulation and releases endorphins which help maintain the immune system
• Promotes positive human/animal relationship
• My personal favorite, pure old fashioned pleasure massage!!!

                                         Potential Benefits of

                                               CBD for Pets

• Anti-inflammatory (i.e. hypersensitivity, dermatitis)
• Reduction in pain
• Reduction in seizures and convulsions
• Immune system support (i.e. autoimmune disease, cancer)
• Nervous system support
• Cardiovascular system support
• Reduction in anxiety
• Gastrointestinal support

Check out our online shop for all our CBD product for your fur baby.

Your animal should refrain from eating for at least an hour prior to massage. Please take him/her out in the yard or for a walk prior to their massage so they may relieve their bladder/bowels. Hydrate your pet with fresh water prior to massage.

​

The first massage is always a 60 to 90 minute session to give me and your dog a chance to become familiar with each other and get comfortable. All follow-up sessions will be 40 to 60 mins.

​

Serving Bloomington, IN and surrounding areas.

What can I expect from my dog’s first massage treatment?

Every dog relates to massage in their way. When I meet with a canine client for the first time, my primary goal is to get to know the dog and develop a relationship with them. For some dogs, the first session may cause excitement or even anxiety. Your dog might not relax on the floor with me and receive a full body massage. That is normal! I believe in providing out-call massages in my client's homes primarily because dogs tend to be most at ease in the comfort of their own homes. I usually work on the floor with my clients. Sometimes, the whole family will also sit on the floor, encouraging the dog to relax and enjoy the session. I work with some clients who are home alone during the day. Some dogs chew on a bone or stuffed animal, while others snore throughout the session.

The initial consultation usually lasts between 60 and 90 minutes; every minute is well spent. In future sessions, once your dog knows what to expect and recognizes the comforting and relaxing effects of therapeutic massage, your dog will utilize every minute necessary for them. Most importantly, we will find a setting and time of day that works for your dog. 

There will be an assistant for all in-home appointments to help with whatever is needed. 

How long are follow-up sessions?

After the first consultation, unless your dog experiences significant changes in their condition, sessions will last between 40-60 minutes.

How should I prepare my dog for a massage session?

Your dog will be able to enjoy the massage and experience optimal results if you follow these guidelines:

• Identify a quiet and peaceful location in your home where your dog can relax and focus on learning the skill of receiving a massage. If you are concerned about your dog shedding, feel free to provide a blanket for your dog to use.
• If you talk to your dog as I do, tell them about their pending massage appointment – it can’t hurt!
• Make sure your pup has gone potty before the session begins.
• Schedule the massage at a time when your dog’s tummy isn’t stuffed with food.
• When you think your dog will be most relaxed, think about scheduling a massage.
• Avoid scheduling your session while roasting a turkey or doing anything else that will fill your house with the scent of something your dog would love to devour.

What should I expect after the massage?

Massage can be an intense experience. Your dog will likely need to go potty and want to drink a lot of water following the session. If your dog is already experiencing mobility problems, they may be less coordinated or tired in the short term. 

These are all very normal responses to massage during the first 24 hours following a session. If you have questions or concerns about your dog’s state after a massage, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

How frequently should my dog get a massage?

Every dog is different, and they all present with their own unique set of conditions and circumstances. One goal of the initial massage session is determining an appropriate care plan for your dog. A dog with a severe health condition, chronic pain, or mobility issues may benefit from massage once or twice a week. A healthy, athletic dog might need a massage once or twice a month. Every dog is different, and your dog’s physical condition will change over time, so we can decide together what is necessary and appropriate for your pup.

Can I massage my dog on my own?

Massage can strengthen the bond between you and your dog. Pet parents who regularly massage their dogs are better equipped to identify physical changes and potential health issues early on. I am always happy to demonstrate specific safe and appropriate techniques for pet parents to try at home. Considering all that, working with someone who has been through training on canine anatomy and physiology, pathology, massage techniques, and other issues related to pet health and safety is essential. When not administered by a trained professional, some techniques can cause pain or injury. And while I'm on the topic of trained professionals, I highly recommend working with a canine massage therapist who has completed training and accreditation.

Can you diagnose an injury or illness?

I cannot diagnose any injury or illness as a canine massage therapist. My scope of practice is limited explicitly to providing therapeutic massage techniques. Only a licensed veterinarian can diagnose your pet’s injury or illness. However, if I suspect your dog is experiencing a severe health issue, I will recommend that you schedule an appointment with your veterinarian or, in some cases, seek emergency care.

Are there times when my dog should not receive a massage?

If your dog is in an acute state and should be at the doctor (think heat stroke, shock, vomiting, diarrhea, stroke, or fever), massage is not recommended.

Money’s kind of tight right now. Do you have special discounts?

Every dog can benefit from therapeutic massage, and I try very hard to make my services affordable so that canine clients in need can access my services. Please, never hesitate to ask me about special offers. 

Is gratuity customary for canine massage?

Providing a gratuity for your dog’s massage is not required but is based on personal preference. Some of my clients tip 10-20% for each treatment, while others do not provide a tip. It is totally up to you. Another great way to show appreciation for massage services is by telling your friends, family, and co-workers about REVIVE and writing a testimonial for our website!