Frequently Asked Questions

Clinical Canine Massage is a specialized, evidence-based therapy that focuses on the soft tissues of the dog. It uses targeted techniques (including Myofascial Release, Swedish, Sports, and Deep Tissue massage) to rehabilitate injuries, support chronic conditions like arthritis, and improve overall mobility and comfort.

While petting is wonderful for bonding, clinical massage involves intentional, therapeutic manipulation of the dog's 700+ muscles. Practitioners are trained to feel for "trigger points" (muscular knots), adhesions (scar tissue), and areas of muscular compensation to provide measurable physical improvement.

Benefits include reduced pain and stiffness, improved range of motion, faster recovery from injury or surgery, reduced muscle tension, and improved circulation. It also provides significant mental relaxation and can help reduce anxiety.

No! While it's fantastic for seniors, it's also highly beneficial for agility and sporting dogs (to prevent injury and improve performance), dogs recovering from surgery (like CCL repairs), and even young dogs with developmental conditions like hip dysplasia.

Look for signs such as stiffness when getting up, "slowing down" on walks, difficulty jumping into the car or onto the sofa, a change in coat texture, or even subtle behavioral changes like becoming more irritable or withdrawn.

Yes. By law (The Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966), any complementary therapist must obtain consent from your dog's vet before treating them. This ensures there are no underlying medical reasons why massage would be unsuitable and keeps your vet informed of the treatment plan.

We typically follow the "3 Session Rule." Most owners see a noticeable improvement within 1 to 3 sessions. After this initial course, some dogs benefit from monthly "maintenance" sessions, especially if they have chronic conditions like arthritis.

The first session includes a full gait analysis and postural assessment. I will then perform a thorough "palpation" to find areas of interest. The massage itself is performed on a soft mat on the floor, following the dog's pace and comfort levels.

Yes, I am a mobile practitioner serving Wiltshire. Most dogs are much more relaxed in their own environment, which allows for a more effective treatment. You just need a quiet space where we can work without too many interruptions.

Absolutely, but timing is key. Massage helps manage the muscular compensation that occurs when a dog favors a limb after surgery. We work closely with your vet's recommendations to ensure the timing is right for your dog's specific recovery stage.

Yes, these are called "contraindications." Massage is not suitable if your dog has a fever, an infectious disease, certain types of cancer, or is in the very acute stage of an injury. This is why veterinary consent is so important.

I completed the 2-year Clinical Canine Massage Practitioner Programme with the Canine Massage Therapy Centre. I am a member of the Canine Massage Guild, which requires me to adhere to a strict Code of Conduct and complete 25 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) every year.

The initial consultation can take up to 90 minutes. Subsequent sessions typically last between 45 to 60 minutes, depending on the dog's tolerance and needs on the day.

Some dogs may experience a "healing crisis" where they feel a bit sleepy or quiet for 24-48 hours after a session. This is normal as the body processes the changes. I will provide you with specific aftercare instructions to help your dog recover.

You can book directly through my contact page, email me at hello@caninewellness.co.uk, or give me a call at 07803 653 230. I'll then send you the necessary forms to get things started with your vet.