It’s Nice to Be Kneaded!

If you are wondering if your dog would benefit from massage therapy – Absolutely Yes! Any dog can benefit from some level of massage. Massage therapy can be a fantastic tool for aging dogs with arthritis, chronic illness, mobility issues, anxiety and depression. Dog massage therapy can also be beneficial in dogs recovering from an injury or surgery. Working dogs and performance dogs can also greatly benefit from massage therapy.

Muscular and skeletal benefits of Animal Massage Therapy

• Massage therapy relaxes or stimulates muscles to relieve tension, pain, stiffness and weakness
• Massage therapy reduces unwanted or excessive scar tissue and swelling after surgery
• Increased range of motion and joint flexibility
• Decrease recovery time after surgery
• Massage therapy reduces muscle spasms
• Decreased healing time from muscle injuries including strains and sprains

Nervous system benefits of Animal Massage Therapy

• Massage therapy relieves nerve related pain
• Massage therapy stimulates the motor nerves
• Massage therapy improves proprioception (awareness of position and movement of the body)
• Raise endorphin levels to promote healing
• Relieves restlessness and promotes better sleep patterns

Other benefits of Animal Massage Therapy

• Decreases blood pressure
• Improves elimination of metabolic waste
• Improves appetite 
• Aids in digestive health
• Promotes healthy skin and coat
• Supports the lymphatic system 
• Boosts the immune system
• Promotes healthy breathing patterns
• Decreased anxiety and depression
• Provides an overall sense of well-being

Frequently asked questions about Animal Massage Therapy

What can I expect during and after my dog’s massage?

Most dogs settle into a session with a dog massage therapist nicely but some dogs may take a couple massage therapy sessions before they feel comfortable enough with a new person to settle and allow body work. Each dog or massage session will normally last 45-60 minutes but will greatly depend on your dog’s needs and will include several stages. The opening of the massage allows your dog to get acquainted with the dog massage therapist, this starts the minute we meet. The second stage of the massage is the palpation stage, an evaluation of your dog’s overall musculature, a check for areas of tension, and the mobility of the joints. This portion is vital to planning the areas of the body needing the most attention. Then we move into the substance of the massage. The dog massage therapist will massage certain areas of the body with particular strokes based on observation and palpation. We finish with some light stretching and close with some final gentle strokes. A potty break shortly after a massage and a drink of water is recommended after massage. Most dogs feel revived and relaxed and will likely have an overall happy and calm deposition following a massage.

How to prepare my dog for a massage?

Yes! It is best to schedule with the dog massage therapist at a time of day where your dog is normally most relaxed. Obviously, this isn’t always possible, so there are a few things you can do. Try to keep your dog’s routine as normal as possible. If able, take your dog for a walk before the massage therapy session. Avoid meals for 2 hours prior to the massage and try to make sure they have gone to the bathroom. Having a comfortable, quiet space with limited interruptions for the massage is always encouraged. 

How often should my dog receive a massage?

Frequency of massage varies based on each individual’s needs. Dogs recovering from surgery or that have severe chronic discomfort may benefit from a couple sessions a week where other dogs may only need a massage on a monthly basis. 

I think my dog is in pain. Can I try getting my dog a massage before seeking veterinary care?

Massage can not substitute for veterinary care and a massage therapist can not diagnose a condition. Though massage may be beneficial in most injuries or illness it is the law in Oregon (and a good idea) that a veterinarian must sign a referral for a massage. We are happy to help facilitate with a referral request to your regular vet if you desire massage only. It can also be included as part of full rehabilitative therapy under Dr. Mandi.

Is there such a thing as massage therapy for cats?

Yes! We offer cat massage therapy and acupuncture for cats. While not as common as our work with dogs, cats also benefit from massage. Cats can be a bit more elusive and persnickety so it’s a good idea to chat with our cat massage therapist to see if cat massage is a good idea for your cat.