Frequently Asked Questions
IS MASSAGE & BODYWORK A REPLACEMENT FOR VETERINARY CARE?
Massage and Bodywork are a holistic approach, they are not meant to diagnose, treat, or cure medical conditions. I always recommend veterinary care for any health concerns or illnesses and am happy to work with your pet's veterinarian.
WHAT DO I DO TO GET READY FOR THE MASSAGE?
Please to avoid meals 2-3 hours before the session and to take them out to go potty right before. It's best to take your dog for a little walk or do a bit of groundwork if possible to burn any excess energy before the session. Riding is completely fine to do before the session as well, I even encourage it as it will make the muscles warm and burn any excess energy your horse could have beforehand.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM THE FIRST MASSAGE OR BODYWORK SESSION?
I will do the session wherever your animal is most comfortable. Whether that is in your living room or outside in the backyard. I do ask for a secluded, quiet space away from other animals so the session can be as relaxing as possible. We will review medical history, sign some of my paperwork, and do a mobility test to get a baseline of where your animal is at. Most animals settle into the massage very quickly, some take a couple of sessions, it definitely depends on the individual.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER THE MASSAGE?
Most animals do need to go out after the massage, sometimes in the middle of it as well, and they will be very thirsty so please provide easy access to water. Some animals relax and take a nap afterwards, some get a small burst of energy and then take a nap. It definitely depends from individual to individual. I definitely encourage if your dog has that light burst of energy to take a small 10 minute walk afterwards. For horses, I do encourage a 10 minute walk before putting them back in their stall or pasture.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD MY ANIMAL GET MASSAGED?
That depends, it's definitely a case by case basis. I offer massages and bodywork up to twice a week for some cases. Others only need it once a week or even once a month, but I can usually tell you in the first 2 sessions what I recommend for your animal.
WHEN IS MASSAGE AND BODYWORK NOT RECOMMENDED?
Massage and bodywork should be avoided in acute stages of sickness including pneumonia, but once acute stage is over it can be done to aid in healing.
Massage and bodywork should not be performed over an open wound, in the case of fever, shock, infection, diarrhea, vomiting, or over an acute injury.
Massage and bodywork should be avoided with certain cancers.