Yes! Treatment can only be carried out with prior Veterinary Consent. This is a legal requirement for all physical therapies involving animals as specified by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and Exemptions Order 2015. It helps to identify any health concerns which may impact the treatment and is for your dog’s safety, as well as your peace of mind. Find out more here.
Clinical canine massage is an evidence-based therapy that helps rehabilitate injuries, supports orthopaedic conditions and provides a natural approach to managing chronic muscular pain.
It may benefit dogs who are:
- Recovering from soft tissue injury or surgery
- Living with age-related stiffness or orthopaedic conditions, such as arthritis
- Showing signs of muscular discomfort or reduced mobility
- Active or sporting dogs needing support with performance, recovery or injury prevention
- Growing puppies and young dogs who may benefit from support with healthy movement and musculoskeletal development
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Every dog is different, so treatment recommendations are based on your dog’s individual condition and response to therapy. I initially recommend a maximum of three sessions before reviewing progress. Some dogs improve after fewer sessions, while others may benefit from occasional maintenance treatment to help maintain their comfort and mobility.
The initial appointment lasts up to 90 minutes, allowing time for a full consultation, assessment, treatment and aftercare advice. Follow-up and maintenance appointments last approximately 60 minutes.
Some pet insurance policies may cover clinical canine massage when it is recommended by your veterinary surgeon. Cover varies between insurers and policies, so I recommend checking with your insurance provider before booking. If required, I can provide receipts and any supporting information needed for your claim.
For the first 48 hours after treatment, I recommend keeping exercise to lead walks and gentle activity only. This allows your dog’s body time to respond to treatment and supports the best possible outcome.
Many dogs are a little unsure when meeting someone new, and that’s completely normal. I work at your dog’s pace, giving them time to settle and build trust before treatment begins. Every session is adapted to your dog’s comfort and confidence, and there is never any pressure to continue if your dog isn’t ready.
Some dogs are naturally more sensitive or cautious about being handled, particularly if they’re in pain. Treatment is always introduced gradually and adapted to your dog’s comfort and confidence. I work with your dog, not on your dog, allowing them to guide the pace of the session so they feel safe and relaxed.
Most dogs do not need to wear a muzzle. However, if a dog is in significant pain, anxious, or has a history of reacting when uncomfortable, I may recommend the use of a well-fitted muzzle to help keep everyone safe.
A muzzle is never used as a punishment. When appropriate, it allows treatment to be carried out safely while reducing stress for both your dog and everyone involved. If I feel a muzzle would be beneficial, I’ll always discuss this with you beforehand.
If your dog already wears a muzzle comfortably, please bring it to your appointment.
Yes. I treat dogs of all breeds, sizes and ages, adapting treatment to each dog’s temperament, physical condition and response to treatment.
No. Clinical canine massage is not a replacement for veterinary care. It works alongside your vet as part of your dog’s overall treatment plan.
While X-rays and MRI scans are invaluable diagnostic tools for diagnosing many conditions, they don’t always identify muscular dysfunction or soft tissue restrictions that may be contributing to your dog’s discomfort. Clinical canine massage uses movement assessment and hands-on palpation to identify muscular and fascial issues that may benefit from treatment.
By improving muscular health and function, clinical canine massage can help reduce discomfort, improve mobility and support recovery. In some cases, successful treatment may contribute to a reduction in pain medication, but any changes to your dog’s medication should always be made by your vet.