The Benefits Of Animal Massage Therapy

Animal massage has been gaining significant traction in recent years, which is fantastic. In my experience, most people seek me out when other options have failed. Their veterinarian may have recommended surgery, or they might not know exactly what’s wrong, but their pet is clearly in pain. Sometimes, they’re told their pet is just aging and will have difficulty moving around. Occasionally, a vet might suggest massage therapy, but more often, it’s a family member or friend who brings it up.

Animal Massage Therapy

One of my clients, Keikli, was referred to me under such circumstances. His veterinarian diagnosed him with a cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tear and recommended surgery costing $5,000. However, the vet also warned that there was a 70% chance Keikli could tear the other ligament within two years and only a 50% chance that the surgery would fully restore his ability to use the leg. A friend, who was also my client, advised Keikli’s family to reach out to me. She knew I had successfully rehabbed my own dog from a similar injury without surgery and encouraged them to try massage therapy.

Duration

Over the course of three months, we did biweekly massage sessions, followed by monthly sessions for two additional months. I also explained to the family that recovery from this kind of injury typically takes six months. After seven months, Keikli fully regained the use of his leg without surgery, no longer limped, and returned to his old, happy self.

Memorable

Another memorable client was referred to me by a friend through Petworks. She worked for an individual who owned two abused horses, including one named Summer. Summer had severe inflammation across her body, which appeared like a blanket of fluid on her back. She couldn’t be saddled without becoming extremely angry, couldn’t canter properly, using her back legs together instead of separately, and reacted aggressively to even light touches.

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Challenging

Summer was one of the most challenging cases I’ve worked on but also one of the most rewarding. During our sessions, her transformation was remarkable. Her scar tissue began to fill out on her neck from an old bite injury, the inflammation reduced drastically, and she became more tolerant of touch. Her muscles softened noticeably after the very first massage.

Progress

After a month and a half of biweekly sessions, Summer’s progress was astounding. She could be saddled, cantered naturally, and the blanket-like swelling was completely gone. The dip in her neck had nearly filled out, and she was overall much happier and more comfortable. Thank you, animal massage therapy!

“There are just so many benefits to you and your furry family members…As animal massage therapists, we benefit from it because it’s pretty amazing to watch the animals. It helps owners bond with their pets, too. It can also help you develop community.” – Rubi Sullivan, Pet Massage Therapist

Animal massage therapy is far more powerful than many people realize. It can address a wide range of issues, from arthritis and back problems to pulled muscles or partial ligament tears.

About The Author

Devon Goehring owns and operates Little River Animal Massage Therapy, which is based in Kuna, Idaho. She strives to bring your horse or dog an excellent sports massage experience, whether it’s a one time massage or multiples.

About Petworks

In 2021, Dr. Marty Goldstein DVM joined the pet care platform Petworks as an advisor in its Animal Nutrition care division. Dr Marty Nature’s Blend is on a mission to help your pets live their healthiest lives possible. Dr. Marty’s pet nutrition expertise and guidance has helped Petworks evolve and become the preeminent animal and pet nutrition consultation service for pet parents in North America.

In 2022, Blue Buffalo Founder Bill Bishop Jr. joined Petworks as Senior Advisor in our Animal Nutrition Care Division. Bill brings his extensive expertise in pet food innovation and business leadership. His guidance helps Petworks enhance our pet nutrition service offerings, helping to ensure that pet parents throughout the world receive trusted, science-backed nutritional support for their dogs, cats, and animals.