My name is Melissa, a Canine Massage Therapist working in the Berkshire area and the owner of Melissa Castle Canine Massage Therapy.
I am a registered member of the IAAT (International Association of Animal Therapists) and am fully insured. I have also taken the further study of completing a canine first aid and understanding behaviour qualification.
My passion since I was little has always been animals. Having grown up surrounded by cocker spaniels and cockapoos, my dream was always to help rehabilitate dogs.
Whilst completing my Canine Massage qualification, I started working at a countryside dog retreat as a doggy daycare assistant. This has provided me with invaluable experience working with all ages, breeds, sizes and temperaments. This also broadened my knowledge of rehabilitation after caring for dogs who have returned to daycare post-surgery.
My Cockapoo Koda is very anxious and reactive around other dogs. Since bringing Koda home, I have worked with his vet and behaviourist to support him physically and mentally. From completely changing his diet, and lifestyle and attending weekly training to starting hydrotherapy to support his luxating patella, I have gained invaluable knowledge on supporting anxiety through my own experience with Koda as well as caring for shy and anxious dogs at my job. I have a particular interest in working to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety and stress.
I use a multimodal approach to treatments tailored to the individual need. Working as a team to care for your dog is the most successful route to the rehabilitation journey. This starts off with the identification of your dog's symptoms and evaluation by your vet. After seeking your vet's consent, I then work in collaboration with your Vet and anyone who is included in your dog's care i.e. behaviourist, trainer, Hydrotherapist etc to ensure the best possible treatment.
I keep myself up to date with new technologies and regularly attend relevant CPD and courses, completing a minimum of 25 hours of CPD a year.
I work under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and Exemptions Order 2015 and therefore will not treat your dog without prior veterinary approval.
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