Frequently Asked Questions??

 

Massage my dog?  I pet him all the time and I rub vigorously.  Isn't that a massage?  

Any type of positive interaction with your canine friend is encouraged, especially petting and touching.  Just as in the case of a human massage therapist however, a CSAMT (certified small animal massage therapist) has received intense training, not only in massage, but also in canine anatomy, behavior and pathologies.  Your therapist uses this training to apply massage strokes with appropriate rhythm, contour and pressure to bring results specific to your dog. 

Massage my dog?  What will I tell my friends and family?

Animals receive the same benefits from massage and touch as humans do. These benefits affect every major system of an animal’s body as well as their mental well being.  Massage promotes muscle health by relieving soreness, tension, and restrictions which can lead to more serious conditions over time.  Muscles that are healthy provide greater flexibility, range of motion and are at much less risk of cramping and injury.  Massaging your dog can also reduce stress, reduce anxiety and encourage positive interaction with humans.  So, tell them they should have their dog massaged too!

Can my dog still get a massage if he is sick or injured?

Massage therapy is an excellent complement to veterinary care, physical therapy, athletic training, and/or obedience training.  Massage should NOT be used as an alternative to veterinary care.  If you have any question if your dog is suited for massage please ask your veterinarian.  

Do you come to my home for the massage session or do we come to you?  

Usually the clients are more comfortable in their own homes where they can relax on their favorite pillow or special spot.  However, if you prefer to move the session, accommodations can be made at the local training center or massage studio where Wet Nose has established relationships.

My dog (the jumping bean) or my puppy probably won't sit still.  What benefit will massage do for him?

Many dogs, including puppies, will surprise their owners once a massage therapist begins the session.  Touch is very powerful and a confident but loving approach often helps to persuade the animal to trust the therapist enough to settle down.  A full body massage like that done to humans is hard to do on any animal. "Fido could you flip over so I can get your front now" doesn't really happen.  Because animals are not inhibited like humans, however, they are able to fully enjoy the massage that is being done to them.  They will also be quick to indicate what doesn't feel right and what spots should be left alone.  The honesty in their feedback is the beauty of massaging an animal.  A puppy will also learn that touch is a good thing and the interaction in itself, whether a full body massage is accomplished or not, is incredibly valuable. 

The name of your business is Wet Nose Canine Massage.  Does this mean you will not massage my cat, rabbit or fish?

We specialize in performance and geriatric dogs.  However, we are certified to massage all small animals including cats, 

rabbits, chinchillas and sheep.  We might need to discuss why you want your fish massaged but here at Wet Nose Canine Massage we are open to all inquiries...

 

 

Dog and cat massage has so many physical and psychological benefits for your pet that
you could almost call it an essential of health care, like grooming, feeding, and exercise."
Dr. Michael W. Fox (author of The HEALING TOUCH)