Laurie's Canine Massage and Laser Therapy LLC - Sparta Township, NJ

Member since May 2022

Laurie Shepherd, a highly skilled Certified Canine Massage Therapist (CCMT), offers expert at-home canine massage and laser therapy across Northern New Jersey. With 33 years of experience in pet care, Laurie is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of dogs through specialized therapeutic services. Her treatments are ideal for aiding recovery post-injury or surgery, as well as providing essential support for senior dogs facing arthritis or degenerative conditions. Laurie’s therapy sessions promote strength and flexibility in dogs, ensuring they remain pain-free and capable of enjoying their favorite activities.

Laurie's canine massage and laser therapy are particularly beneficial for dogs that compete or work, helping maintain their peak performance by preventing muscle tightness and soreness. By addressing these issues, Laurie helps prevent secondary pain that can arise from compensation in other body parts. Her mobile services bring convenience and comfort, allowing pets to receive care in their familiar home environment, which further supports their healing process.

Insured and certified in both canine and animal massage, Laurie Shepherd is committed to providing compassionate and effective care for dogs of all sizes, from under 20 lbs to over 80 lbs. Her expertise ensures each pet receives personalized attention tailored to their specific needs. Ready to give your dog the care they deserve? Book through Petworks today!

  • Certified
  • Insured
  • Mobile Services

Specialties

  • Animal Massage
  • Pet Cold Laser Therapy

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Cats
  • Dogs

What size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • Certified Animal Massage Therapist
  • Certified Canine Massage Therapist (CCMT)
  • Certified Canine Therapeutic Massage Therapist

Bonded and Insured

  • Insured

Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?

PetWorks Cancellation Policy Pet Care Professional's Own Policy If a pet care professional has published their own cancellation or refund policy, that policy governs the refund of the service amount only. Any PetWorks fees, including the Care Coverage Fee and Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee, are governed by this PetWorks Cancellation Policy and not by the pet care professional's policy. Pet Parent Cancels If the pet care professional has not published their own cancellation policy, the service amount is refundable only if the pet parent cancels at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time of the booking. Cancellations within 72 hours of the scheduled start time are non-refundable for the service amount. The Care Coverage Fee is non-refundable when a pet parent cancels, regardless of timing and regardless of whether the pet care professional has their own cancellation policy. Pet Parent No-Show If a pet parent does not show up for a confirmed booking, no refund will be issued for the service amount or the Care Coverage Fee. Pet Care Professional Cancels If a pet care professional cancels a confirmed booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything they paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. The pet care professional receives no payment for the canceled service and is charged a Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee equal to 10% of the service amount, up to a maximum of $150. PetWorks may collect this fee by deducting it from a future payout through PetWorks or by other means if no future payout is available. Policy in Effect at Booking The cancellation rules that apply to a booking, including any pet care professional cancellation policy on file and the Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee rate, are those that were in effect when the booking was confirmed.

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Northern New Jersey

What year did you begin serving pets?

33 Years

laurie shepherd

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BASED IN: Sparta Township, NJ
SERVICE AREA: Any distance, including Northern New Jersey

Distinction

Certified Canine Massage Therapist (CCMT)

Specialties

  • Animal Massage
  • Pet Cold Laser Therapy

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Cats
  • Dogs

What size animals do you work with?

  • 20-39 lbs
  • 40-79 lbs
  • 80+ lbs
  • under 20 lbs

Pet Certifications

  • Certified Animal Massage Therapist
  • Certified Canine Massage Therapist (CCMT)
  • Certified Canine Therapeutic Massage Therapist

Bonded and Insured

  • Insured

Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?

PetWorks Cancellation Policy Pet Care Professional's Own Policy If a pet care professional has published their own cancellation or refund policy, that policy governs the refund of the service amount only. Any PetWorks fees, including the Care Coverage Fee and Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee, are governed by this PetWorks Cancellation Policy and not by the pet care professional's policy. Pet Parent Cancels If the pet care professional has not published their own cancellation policy, the service amount is refundable only if the pet parent cancels at least 72 hours before the scheduled start time of the booking. Cancellations within 72 hours of the scheduled start time are non-refundable for the service amount. The Care Coverage Fee is non-refundable when a pet parent cancels, regardless of timing and regardless of whether the pet care professional has their own cancellation policy. Pet Parent No-Show If a pet parent does not show up for a confirmed booking, no refund will be issued for the service amount or the Care Coverage Fee. Pet Care Professional Cancels If a pet care professional cancels a confirmed booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything they paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. The pet care professional receives no payment for the canceled service and is charged a Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee equal to 10% of the service amount, up to a maximum of $150. PetWorks may collect this fee by deducting it from a future payout through PetWorks or by other means if no future payout is available. Policy in Effect at Booking The cancellation rules that apply to a booking, including any pet care professional cancellation policy on file and the Pet Care Professional Cancellation Fee rate, are those that were in effect when the booking was confirmed.

Which part of the country do you serve pets?

Northern New Jersey

What year did you begin serving pets?

33 Years

πŸ¦” Animal Massage Therapist in Sparta Township, New Jersey | Laurie Shepherd


πŸ’š Mobile Animal Massage and In-Home Pet Wellness


Laurie Shepherd provides personalized animal massage services for pets in Sparta Township, New Jersey, including Sussex County and surrounding communities such as Dover, Morristown, Randolph, Roxbury, Wayne, Montville, Rockaway, Hopatcong, Parsippany, Boonton. Specializing in hands-on massage and bodywork for animals, Laurie works with pet parents to support their companion's comfort, relaxation, and overall wellness. Most appointments can be arranged as mobile, in-home sessions, allowing your pet to receive care in a familiar environment. Available services, animal specialties, and appointment locations depend on the professional.


🐾 What Is Animal Massage Therapy?


Animal massage is a hands-on wellness practice that uses gentle, purposeful touch and massage techniques to address muscle tension, encourage relaxation, and support comfortable movement. Depending on the professional's training and approach, sessions may incorporate techniques such as Swedish massage, gentle stretching, myofascial techniques, acupressure, or other forms of animal bodywork.


Animal massage is available for different types of companion animals, with many professionals specializing in canine massage, feline massage, or equine massage. Each animal is different, so the therapist adapts the session to the animal's species, temperament, comfort level, and individual needs.


🌿 Potential Benefits of Animal Massage


Pet parents explore animal massage for a variety of wellness goals. Depending on the animal and the techniques used, massage may help support:


Relaxation: Gentle hands-on attention may encourage relaxation and help some animals settle during or after a session.
Muscle Comfort: Massage techniques may help address areas of muscle tightness and tension.
Mobility and Flexibility: Appropriate bodywork and gentle movement techniques may support comfortable movement and flexibility.
Senior Pet Wellness: Older animals may benefit from individualized sessions focused on comfort, gentle touch, and relaxation.
Active and Athletic Animals: Some pet parents seek massage as part of a broader wellness routine for working, sporting, or physically active animals.
Individualized Attention: Sessions give the therapist an opportunity to work at the animal's pace and adapt techniques to its comfort and tolerance.


Animal massage is a complementary wellness service, not a replacement for veterinary care, physical rehabilitation, or medical treatment. If your pet has an injury, ongoing pain, a medical condition, or has recently undergone surgery, consult your veterinarian before arranging a massage session.


πŸ’– Personalized Massage for Dogs, Cats, Horses, and Other Animals


Animal massage professionals may specialize in one species or work with several types of animals. Depending on Laurie Shepherd's training and experience, services may include:


Dog Massage: Canine massage sessions tailored to a dog's size, age, activity level, temperament, and individual wellness needs.
Cat Massage: Gentle, appropriately adapted massage for cats that are comfortable with hands-on interaction.
Equine Massage: Massage and bodywork for horses, including recreational, working, and performance animals, where offered.
Other Companion Animals: Some professionals work with additional species. Contact the therapist to confirm experience and availability for your particular animal.


πŸš— Mobile Animal Massage at Your Home


Many PetWorks animal massage professionals offer mobile services, traveling to the pet parent's home to provide an in-person session. In-home appointments can be convenient for pets that are more comfortable in familiar surroundings and for families who prefer not to arrange transportation.


Depending on the professional's service arrangements, appointments may take place:


At Your Home: The therapist travels to your residence and works with your pet in an appropriate, comfortable space.
At a Professional Location: Some therapists offer appointments at their own studio, practice, or another designated location.
At an Equine Facility: Equine massage professionals may travel to a barn, stable, or other horse facility within their service area.


Before booking, confirm the appointment location, travel availability, any additional mobile service fees, and what space or preparation may be needed for your pet's session.


πŸ‘ What to Expect During an Animal Massage Session


Every animal responds differently to hands-on care. A session with Laurie may begin with a conversation about your pet's history, activity level, behavior, and wellness goals. The therapist may observe your pet's movement and comfort level before choosing appropriate techniques.


During the session, the professional works at your animal's pace, adjusting touch and techniques based on its response. Some animals relax into the experience, while others need time, breaks, or a more gradual introduction. The therapist should respect your pet's comfort and stop or adjust the session if the animal shows signs of distress.


Session length, techniques, and recommendations for follow-up appointments vary by professional and by animal. Ask Laurie what is included in the service you are considering and whether any preparation is recommended.


πŸ“‹ How to Prepare Your Pet for an Animal Massage


A few simple steps can help make an appointment more comfortable and productive.


Share Relevant Information: Tell the therapist about your pet's age, activity level, temperament, medical history, and any areas of concern.
Discuss Veterinary Guidance: Let the professional know about injuries, recent procedures, medications, or health conditions, and consult your veterinarian when appropriate.
Choose a Comfortable Space: For mobile appointments, provide a quiet area where your pet can settle and the therapist can work safely.
Allow Time to Get Comfortable: Give your pet an opportunity to become familiar with the therapist and surroundings before hands-on work begins.
Follow Your Pet's Lead: Animals have different comfort levels with touch. Allow the therapist to adjust the session to your pet's responses.


πŸ“ Animal Massage in Sparta Township and Surrounding Areas


Laurie Shepherd is based in Sparta Township, New Jersey and provides animal massage services to pet parents throughout Sussex County and nearby communities, including Dover, Morristown, Randolph, Roxbury, Wayne, Montville, Rockaway, Hopatcong, Parsippany, Boonton. Mobile appointments may be available throughout the professional's service area, depending on travel distance and scheduling. Contact Laurie to confirm whether your location is covered and whether sessions take place at your home or at another appointment location.


πŸ’¬ How to Book an Animal Massage Therapist on PetWorks


Finding an animal massage professional on PetWorks makes it easy to review services, compare credentials, and arrange an appointment that fits your pet's needs.


Book Now: If Laurie Shepherd offers available pricing packages or appointment times, select the service you want, choose an available time when scheduling is enabled, provide details about your pet, and submit your booking through PetWorks.
Get Custom Quote: Request a personalized quote if you have questions about your pet's needs, want to arrange a mobile appointment, or need to discuss travel distance, session length, or a specialized service.
Send Message: Contact Laurie directly to ask about experience, certifications, animal specialties, appointment locations, and availability before booking.


Secure Online Payments: PetWorks accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Affirm, Link, and Klarna where available. Payments are processed securely through the PetWorks platform.


Bookings made and paid through PetWorks include Care Coverage and access to the PetWorks Concierge Team for booking questions and support. If a professional cancels a confirmed booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. Other cancellations are subject to the applicable cancellation policy.


❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Animal Massage


What does an animal massage therapist do?
An animal massage therapist uses hands-on techniques adapted to an animal's species, size, temperament, and comfort level. Sessions may focus on relaxation, muscle tension, comfortable movement, and general wellness.


Can an animal massage therapist come to my home?
Many PetWorks professionals offer mobile animal massage and travel to the pet parent's home. Check the listing for mobile services and confirm the travel area, appointment location, and any additional fees before booking.


What animals can receive massage therapy?
Animal massage professionals may work with dogs, cats, horses, and other companion animals. Each therapist has different training and species specialties, so confirm that the professional has experience with your particular animal.


What is the difference between canine massage and general animal massage?
Canine massage focuses specifically on dogs and uses techniques adapted to canine anatomy, behavior, and comfort. Animal massage is a broader category that may include dogs, cats, horses, and other species.


Can massage help an older dog?
Some pet parents seek canine massage for senior dogs as part of a wellness routine focused on relaxation and comfortable movement. Discuss your dog's age, health, mobility, and any medical conditions with your veterinarian and the massage professional before scheduling.


Can animal massage help with muscle tension?
Massage techniques are often used to address muscle tightness and promote relaxation. The techniques appropriate for an individual animal depend on its condition, comfort level, and the therapist's training.


Is animal massage a substitute for veterinary treatment?
No. Animal massage is a complementary wellness service, not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis, treatment, or prescribed rehabilitation. Consult your veterinarian if your pet has pain, an injury, an illness, or a medical condition.


How long does an animal massage session last?
Session length varies by professional, species, and service package. Some appointments are shorter introductions, while others allow more time for hands-on work. Review the listed package or ask the therapist what is included.


How often should my pet receive massage?
There is no single schedule that works for every animal. Frequency depends on your pet's needs, response to massage, and the professional's recommendations. Discuss an appropriate schedule with your veterinarian and therapist when relevant.


Do I need to prepare anything for an in-home massage appointment?
Ask the therapist what they need before arriving. Typically, a quiet, comfortable space where your pet can settle is helpful. Share relevant information about your pet's health, behavior, and routine in advance.


How do I find a certified animal massage therapist?
Browse PetWorks listings to review each professional's certifications, training, experience, species specialties, and client reviews. Certification requirements vary by organization and specialty, so check the specific credentials displayed on the therapist's profile.


How much does animal massage cost?
Pricing depends on the therapist's experience, session length, animal species, service location, and whether mobile travel is required. Review the professional's listed packages or request a custom quote for your appointment.


Can I book an animal massage appointment online?
Yes. If the professional offers Book Now packages or online scheduling, you can select an available service and submit your booking through PetWorks. You can also request a custom quote or send a message to discuss your pet's needs.


What happens if the animal massage therapist cancels?
If a professional cancels a confirmed PetWorks booking, the pet parent receives a 100% refund of everything paid, including the Care Coverage Fee. Other cancellation situations are handled according to the applicable cancellation policy.


❀️ Find an Animal Massage Therapist in Sparta Township, New Jersey


Give your pet the opportunity to experience personalized, hands-on wellness care. Explore Laurie Shepherd's profile, review available services and credentials, and arrange an animal massage appointment in Sparta Township, New Jersey or surrounding communities through PetWorks.