FAQ
Why does my dog need a massage?
Canine Massage is a non-invasive, hands-on therapy that treats the dog's whole body rather than just the area of pain that is suitable for all life stages and breeds. Massage is part of a preventative and maintenance approach. it helps to maintain their overall health and wellbeing, rehabilitate muscular injuries, encourage relaxation and decrease anxiety. It also aids injury prevention and alleviates pain from orthopaedic conditions such as arthritis.
My dog hasn't had surgery or an injury, can they still have a massage?
Absolutely! Canine Massage is brilliant for preventative therapy, working and agility dogs, sports conditioning and generally keeping your pet comfortable and happy. It is also very beneficial for puppies by easing the discomfort that can come along with the rapid growth of bones and muscles, as well as assisting the development of good spatial awareness, reducing the risk of injury and having a calming effect on an excitable puppy. Canine Massage can also help nervous and anxious dogs, including rescue dogs who may struggle trusting humans.
Will my dog be different after their massage or experience any side effects?
You may find that following the massage, your dog may be slightly quieter than usual and more sleepy. This is perfectly normal and is actually a sign that the treatment is working and the body is restoring itself to its natural balance. It is known as The Healing Crisis. As well as feeling sleepy, they may also want to urinate more, drink more, have joint pain or have a slightly lower appetite. This is perfectly normal for your dog to experience these symptoms for the first 24-48 hours afterwards.
To ease this, it is incredibly important that you keep your dog quiet for 24-48 hours after the massage and has a light meal, plenty of rest and constant access to water as the body rebalances itself. Please avoid strenuous exercise and opt for a short, on-leash walk the next day. The massage can increase muscle soreness and make them more likely to injure themselves if not.
How many appointments will my pet need?
This will completely depend on your dog and their condition. As a general rule, the best results show in 1-3 treatments. Some conditions may take longer and certain orthopaedic conditions such as arthritis benefit from regular monthly or maintenance treatments to keep your dog comfortable and mobile.
Do I need a veterinary referral before the massage treatment?
Yes. The Veterinary Surgeons Act, of 1966 requires that any Canine Massage Therapist obtain consent from a referring veterinary surgeon prior to any treatment.
How do I get a veterinary referral?
You can download and complete the Veterinary consent form that I have attached below, which can be filled in digitally or handwritten. You will also need to ask your vet to fill out the bottom of the form. Please then email this to me prior to your dog's first treatment.
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Where do you practice?
I practice Monday - through Friday. All therapy is carried out at my custom-built, canine massage therapy cabin - "The Wild at Heart Den". The cabin has been purposely built to provide a relaxing and calming environment for your dog.
Will this be covered by my pet insurance policy?
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Many insurance policies now include cover for complementary therapies, such as canine massage. If you would like to see if the treatments will be covered by your insurance, please speak with your insurer prior to the first massage appointment.
Are there any reasons why my dog could not have a massage?
There are some contradictions to massage which include:
- Open wounds
- If the dog is in shock
- If the dog has a fever or virus
- Pregnancy
- Skin infections
- Cancer
- Severe bruising
- Regular uncontrolled epileptic fits
- Breaks or fractures that have not healed
- If your dog has been vaccinated or recently had their booster, a period of at least two weeks needs to be left before a massage treatment
Can you diagnose an injury or illness?
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I am not able to diagnose any injury or illness. Only a veterinarian is permitted to diagnose your pet’s injury or illness. However, if I suspect your dog is experiencing a serious health issue, I will recommend that you schedule an appointment with your vet.
How do I book?​
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Please email melissacastlecaninemassage@outlook.com to book your dog for their appointment.