What is massage therapy?
Massage therapy is a hands-on approach to naturally maintaining and improving physical and emotional health. Rooted in thousands of years of history, it is now being applied to animals as well as humans.
Is it safe for use on animals?
As a non-invasive treatment, massage therapy carries very little risk for generally healthy pets. However it is recommended that you consult with your veterinarian before beginning any sort of massage therapy, particularly if your pet has recently been diagnosed with or is showing signs of illness or injury.
You should never massage an animal that has low blood pressure, a leg where there may be circulation difficulties (due to thrombosis/blood clots), a fever, heat stroke, or signs of poisoning, shock, severe debilitation or trauma.
What conditions can massage therapy help to treat?
Massage can be used effectively to treat a wide range of conditions including:
Improvement in behavior and temperament:
- Relaxing an aggressive pet
- Calming a hyperactive or nervous animal
- Increasing confidence in shy or submissive pets
- Improving the bond between owner and animal
Improve physical and emotional wellbeing:
- An improvement in the condition of their coat, teeth and gums
- An increase in circulation which helps them to eliminate toxins from their system and boosts the immune system to promote natural healing
- Enhancing flexibility of joints and improving muscle tone. This is particularly beneficial for older pets with mobility issues and sport/performance pets (i.e. greyhounds or horses)
- Reduction in pain from acute or chronic conditions
Improve recovery time:
- Provides relief from sore, aching muscles and muscle spasms
- Reduction of healing time from soft tissue injuries
- Helps muscles to function correctly
Your initial consultation
At your initial consultation your pet will undergo a number of tests. This will include a gait and postural analysis, and a full palpitation and muscular assessment.
Your therapist will also ask you for comprehensive information about your pet’s medical history, lifestyle, diet and more.
Combining the results of these tests and the information provided, your therapist will be able to recommend a plan of treatment that is suitable for your pet.
How many sessions of massage will my pet need?
The number of sessions your pet will need will vary depending on the condition being treated and how he responds to the treatment.
As with most natural healing techniques, multiple or ongoing appointments are usually necessary for dealing with chronic or ongoing ailments such as arthritis. However your vet should be able to give you an approximation on request.
Massage is not strictly for sick pets either. It has proven benefits for overall health and wellbeing and your may decide to treat your pet to regular massages to ensure he has a great quality of life.
Contact Country Veterinary Clinic in the Live Oak and Yuba City area today with any questions or for more information.
