Why do dogs need massage therapy?
Just like us, dogs have aches and pains, they just can’t tell us. Dogs are also very good at masking their pain. When a dog is in pain, they often compensate for that pain or weakness and cause adverse, residual affects to other parts of their bodies.

Massage therapy increases overall circulation. Stimulation of circulation acts as a catalyst for better metabolism, leading to enhanced performance and shorter recuperation time, especially for older or convalescing pets.

The healing function of massage therapy speeds recovery and therefore can be useful in solving a variety of problems from simple fatigue from overplay, lack of vitality, to sprains, spasms, arthritis, or recovery from surgery or broken bones. Massage therapy also compliments existing treatment of specific diseases, such as Hypothyroidism, Cushing’s, Addison’s, epilepsy, vertigo, and even cancer.

As a result of trauma or wounds adhesions may form, causing stiffness or soreness when your dog moves. Massage therapy helps reduce the build-up of adhesions, resulting in less pain and easier movement. Additionally, massage therapy greatly contributes to relaxing the nervous system and helping the self-regulation factors between body and mind. Nervous or aggressive dogs may reveal a softer, more trusting nature after several relaxing massage sessions.

Westside Animal Hospital employs a Certified Canine Massage Therapist. Our therapist has completed the academic and practical requirements for certification from the Boulder College of Massage - Canine Massage Therapy.

Lissa has been on staff at Westside Animal Hospital since June 2001. Her gentle and calming demeanor lends itself well to that of a massage therapist. Lissa is focused on patient comfort with an emphasis on providing pain relief and healing for our patients with a variety of needs.

Our massage therapists use a quiet room with no other distractions. A standard padded massage table is used to provide comfort. In some cases, flower essences are used to compliment the environment.

In most cases, a doctor recommends massage therapy for your pet’s health. Our Therapist will then conduct an exam, focusing on gait analysis and pain assessment. In some cases, the focus will be on conducting a specific massage for a certain disease process. She will develop a plan for your pet, including follow-up massage therapy and suggestions on how you can help at home.

As a pet owner, it is our desire for you to be involved in your pet’s therapy. Depending on the situation, you may be asked to stay during the massage to be a part of your pet’s experience.

Your pet’s first massage session may last up to 60 minutes. Subsequent massages will be 30-45 minutes in length, depending on type of massage and cooperation of your pet.

Each massage session may require an additional 15-30 minutes to allow for preliminary relaxation and plan consultation.

In some cases, it may take up to five sessions to achieve optimal wellness for your pet.

When should my dog have a massage?

• Allergy Relief
• Anxiety/Aggressive Behavior
• Arthritis or Lameness
• Orthopedic Rehabilitation
• Post-Surgical Recovery
• Post-Trauma/Wounds
• Hormonal Imbalances
• Metabolic Diseases
• Hip Dysplasia
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Intervertebral Disk Disease
• Rejuvenation/Wellness
• Agility/Sports Therapy
• Service or Hunting Jobs
• Panosteitis (growing pains)
• Lymph Node Drainage
• Pre-Euthanasia Relaxation

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