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​I massage my pet at home… why should my pet see you?

Massaging your pet at home is great! There is no doubt you are not only bonding with your pet, but also helping him/her to feel better.

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As a nationally certified pet massage practitioner, I am educated in anatomy, physiology, and have knowledge of many conditions that can affect our companion animals. I feel for tightness, sore areas, disharmonies, and other issues that may indicate a problem area in your pet’s body may be indicate as problem areas.

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What happens during a session?

A typical session starts with a review of your pet’s health history and current issues (download a health history form), a physical assessment of your pet’s body, and finally the massage itself. The massage includes a variety of strokes and techniques used based upon the information that was garnered during assessment. Like human bodies, pet’s bodies change regularly. So, massage sessions may differ, with each designed to meet your pet’s needs at that particular time.

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The best time to massage a pet is after his/her daily exercise routine, in a relatively quiet area, and well before or after mealtime.

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How do most pets respond to massage?

Animals react differently to massage—especially the first few sessions. One pet may come into the room and lay down, ready for the experience; others may take a bit more time to relax. It is very common for pets to get up and walk around during the massage, allowing his/her body to acclimate to the massage. It’s important for me to build trust with your pet so they understand that massage is good!

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Is a massage session the same for every pet?

No! Different techniques exist for:

  • Pain reduction

  • Specific injuries

  • Chronic conditions

  • Sports / competitive situations

  • Pre- and post- surgical situations

For example, a senior pet may need relief from arthritis pain so slow gentle strokes promoting circulation and pain reduction may be utilized. Following surgery, strokes to reduce edema may be needed. Before a competition, strokes to warm up the tissues and prepare the body will be utilized.

How long is a session?

60-minute and 30-minute massage sessions are offered.

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What does the owner do?

You are welcome to stay and watch the massage. However, if you feel that your pet will be distracted by your presence or you would rather not stay, it is fine that you leave.

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How will my pet feel after the massage?

Better! Every animal reacts different to massage. Some pets will be ready for a nap following the massage; others will be ready for a walk. Most pets will need to potty following a massage, and all pets should have access to water following his/her massage.

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How many sessions?

The number of sessions varies, and will be discussed and determined based upon your pet’s needs. A regular schedule is most beneficial to maintain lasting effects.

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What is the cost per session?

Dogs: $60/hour & $30/half hour
Cats: $35/session (usually 30 minutes)

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What forms of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, checks, PayPal, Venmo. Sorry, no credit cards at this time.

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Do cats really like massage?

Yes—most cats seem to enjoy a massage very much. Keep in mind that a cat may allow less work and will often end a session abruptly. As much as your cat may enjoy the massage, it is still on his/her terms!

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When should my pet NOT receive a massage?

Contraindications for massage include:

  • Contagious conditions

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Fever

  • If sores, wounds, skin infections, tumors, and lumps are present

  • If there is a new surgical or injury site (Note: Gentle massage can greatly benefit the pet’s well being if applied around the site and on the non-affected parts of the pet’s body.)

  • When veterinary care is needed, especially if a serious injury or illness is suspected

  • If the veterinarian or the animal says NO

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