Why do I need to obtain Veterinary approval?

Veterinary medicine and healthcare works entirely differently to the healthcare of humans. A human can speak to their therapist about any underlying issues/illnesses they have or may have. Whereas a dog obviously can’t. It is therefore imperative that as a Canine Massage Therapist I understand the importance and the implications of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and Exemptions Order 2015 and adhere to them. By working professionally alongside your Vet to understand any health concerns your dog has/may have and to proceed to share information with them of any findings I make during massage. This ensures that your dog’s health and wellbeing is first and foremost.

 

What do I need to do now?

For an initial appointment; get in touch with me and I will forward all the forms to you via email or you can download them from our 'Forms & T&Cs' page. They are all PDFs except the 'Pre-Massage' form which is a Microsoft Form. Download/Print your 'Owner & Vet Form' - complete it and send or take to your vet for approval. Your vet can then either send directly to me or you can do this yourself. Then complete the 'Pre-Massage' form (don't worry though there is an opportunity to go through this together). I will then contact you to arrange your dog's initial appointment.

If you have any problems with these forms please contact me.

 

What happens on the day of the massage?

Ensure you dog is clean and brushed. Have a quiet comfortable space ready, where there will be no disturbances from other pets or people. Your dog should not have just exerted itself physically before a massage (homeostatis, i.e normal heart rate, should have returned) nor eaten a meal for 2 hours prior to massage. Your dog will need to rest for 1-2hrs after the massage before eating or doing any exercise (dependent on personalised aftercare instructions). Your dog may drink a lot after massage, which is completely normal so have plenty of water available for them too. 

 

What happens if my dog won't stay still for the massage?

First of all, this is not a problem and it is not unusual for dogs to want to move around during sessions, they may even want a short toilet break or a drink. Most dogs do relax into the massage very quickly as their 'parasympathetic nervous system' (rest and digest) is triggered. All sessions will be tailored to your dog's individual needs.

 

Is massage therapy covered by my pet insurance?

In some cases, yes. Many insurance companies do now include cover for complimentary therapies. Liaise with your own insurer to ascertain any claims. 

 

Can you diagnose health concerns with my dog?

Only a Veterinarian is qualified to diagnose health conditions. If I have any concerns during my assessment about your dog's health I will always recommend you take your dog to the vet as soon as possible and will send them a report stating my concerns and findings. Any massage sessions will not continue until your vet is happy.

 

What hours do you work?

I can usually be quite flexible offering daytime and some evening and weekend appointments. I am not currently available on Wednesdays. 

 

When might a massage NOT be suitable for my dog (contraindications to massage)?

There are some contraindications to massage, these include:

- A lame dog not yet seen by a vet

- Open Wounds

- A dog suffering from heat exhaustion or shock

- A fever and/or virus

- Diarrhoea and vomiting

- A bitch on heat or pregnant

- Skin infections

- Some cancers

- Severe bruising or inflammation

- Uncontrolled epilepsy

- Breaks/Fractures which have not healed

- Within 2 weeks of vaccination

- Following recent surgery/neutering (dependent on veterinary advice)