The massage takes place either on a table or mat depending on the size of the dog. A hands on full body appraisal is performed before we gently warm, stretch and massage the muscles working on any muscle adhesions, spasms, twitch etc with techniques that will best benefit your dog. Most dogs settle into the massage with ease, relaxing and enjoying the benefits that massage brings. Some may take more time, this is normal and it is not usual for dogs to get up and take brief breaks while they are being massaged. The therapist will look for both positive and negative body language how the massage is proceeding and does not take the massage longer than the dog is comfortable with. Some dogs benefit by light stretches of the limbs and skeletal structure, however we never ask a dog to move past more than it is comfortable with.

At completion of the massage, have a bowl of water handy as they may want a drink. Ensure you dog can get access to the outside as it may need to relieve itself. Be flexible on what the dog wants to do after the massage is completed, they want to play or go for a walk if pain and discomfort has been eased or alternatively have a quiet nap due to the massage lowering their blood pressure particularly if they were stressed before the massage.

With each massage they receive, as they relax and enjoy the hands on therapy, and feel the benefits that CMT massage brings, your dog will look forward to the therapist’s visits and you will be rewarded with a happier, healthier, calmer and responsive pet.