In massage therapy, balance is very important. Simply massaging the affected area isn't enough. It is important to treat the entire body. For instance, if a dog is painful in the rear, she's usually putting excess strain on her front end, and vice versa. A good massage practioer will treat the whole animal.

At the moment we only accept cheques made payable to Pat Wilson or cash.

There is no travel charge for a visit within 25 kilometers of Lindsay, Ontario where Pat is located. Travel charges apply after that at a rate of .50 cents per kilometer (after the first 25). Google maps/directions will be used to estimate.

Most canine massage sessions last from 15-45 minutes, depending upon the size, and individual needs of the dog. Each massage session will be specifically tailored to meet your dog's special requirements. Often, the dog will determine when the session ends. Massage should never be forced on an animal.

Paws4Wellness Canine Massage will travel to your home. Dogs feel comfortable in their home environments. If the dog is uncomfortable being on a raised surface, the massage can easily be done on the floor or anywhere that you and your dog feel comfortable. A warm and quiet place in the home with no interruptions from other animals, children or noise is all that is required.

Most dogs are very attached to their guardians. For this reason, it is important that you are present in the room at the first massage session. This may put the dog at ease. All of the necessary health information will be gathered before the massage session begins. Once the massage is in progress, it will be important for the owner to remain peaceful and quiet. Just like with human massage, a soothing, peaceful environment is necessary in order for the dog to gain the greatest benefit from the massage session. Very often the dog will settle down with the massage practioner and is content without the owner in the room. Some dogs may even be distracted by your presence. Each dog is different and will determine his/her own patterns as the sessions continue.

No. It is never acceptable to force a dog to receive a massage. Therefore, it is not necessary to leash restrain a dog. Most dogs will settle down within the first 2 -3 minutes of the session. If the dog is not in the mood to receive a massage at the time of the scheduled appointment, we will reschedule the session. Some high energy dogs may take several attempts to respond and may benefit from a walk or exercise period before their massage session.

It is a good idea to take your dog out for a short walk if possible and definitely give them a potty break. Ideally no food should be given at least one hour before the massage.

Be sure that you have plenty of clean drinking water available for your dog immediately following the massage session. Once your dog has had some water, he/she will need to be taken outdoors for potty time. After a massage (just as in humans) a little muscle soreness is possible. A post masssage walk may alleviate this. You may also see either a decrease or increase in energy. Some dogs feel so good that they may attempt jumps, stairs, etc. that they do not normally use; while this renewed energy is a great benefit of massage, be careful not to allow them to over exert themselves or risk injury.

Dog massage is great for all ages and all types of dogs. For young dogs it helps them learn to be balanced and to feel comfortable being touched. This can help with grooming and socialization. It also helps promote circulation at a time critical to bone growth.
For mid-age active dogs it helps to alleviate muscle strain from jumping, running and everyday play. Canine athletes will benefit from pre and post exercise sessions. It can also help teach active dogs that calm periods of touch can be a good thing too!
For older dogs it helps relieve joint stiffness, arthritis and other ailments that can be associated with aging. It aids in circulation, digestion and range of motion. Every massage is carried out to your dog's specific needs and responses.

Despite the many positive aspects of massage, there are some situations in which it may not be appropriate. Animals that have fever, shock, infection, mange, open wounds, rashes, lumps, cancer and immune disease or are under antibiotic treatment generally should not receive massage. These animals should be under the direct care of their vet who will determine the appropriate forms of treatment. A certified practitioner of animal massage is trained in anatomy, movement and observation and may decline to proceed with a massage treatment if the health of the animal could be at risk. Post surgical massage should only be performed at the direction of the vet.

Most dogs begin with weekly massage for their first series (See package rates). There are many varied factors that will determine how often to schedule your dog with Paws4Wellness Canine Massage such as: the individual needs of your dog, your budget, your time availability, or your veterinarians' recommendations (if referred by your veterinarian). Pat will be happy to accomodate whatever schedule will work best for you and your canine friend, so that he/she will experience an optimal level of health and wellness.

No. Massage is not, nor is it intended to be a substitute for traditional veterinary care. Your vet has primary responsibility for the health of your animal. Massage is a complementary form of health care. Always speak with your veterinarian to make sure massage is right for your dog and ask the veterinarians advice on recommended treatments. Occasionally the massage practioner may even detect subtle underlying problems that may be helpful on your next veterinary visit. Keep your massage practioner and veterinarian informed of any changes in your dog, either physical or emotional.

When seeking out a professional massage practioner for your dog always make sure they are properly trained and certified by a recognized school of canine massage. They should also be insured and registered as a business. They should always be positive about following your veterinarians' advice. Do not be afraid to ask about the massage practioners qualifications.