Canine Sports Massage (CSM) is a non-invasive therapeutic application of massage that is applied to dogs. Sports massage differs from other forms of massage in that it focuses on the cause, not the symptom of the injury to the muscle. The intent is not just to reduce muscular pain, but to help prevent future injuries to the muscles.  CSM works in conjunction with traditional veterinary medicine to improve and maintain the best possible physical condition.

CSM is not just for the high-performing athlete but also for the backyard or family companions. No matter what kind of athlete your dog may be, they experience soft tissue damage just like humans. The difference between humans and animals is that humans can take action to relieve muscle pain either by going to a doctor, physical therapist, or simply taking it easy to let your muscles begin to heal again. A dog is dependant on their human counterparts. The degree of the pain obviously varies and the degree of injury can significantly change the performance and behavior of your animal.  

Massage can reduce the risk of injuries and enhance your animal performance.

Benefits of sports massage :
· Relieves muscle spasms
· Increases circulation
· Relieves congestion
· Stimulates lymphatic system
· Releases tension
· Eases strain on the Heart
· Hastens the elimination of wastes and toxins
· Prevents adhesions & Reduces fibrosis
· Releases endorphins
· Lengthens connective tissue
· Enhances muscle tone
· Increases range of motion
· Encourages and supports healing
· Improves disposition and creates a more willing partner
· Improves performance
 

Will my dog benefit from massage?
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, he/she could benefit from massage.

· Sore back - difficulty bending side to side. Doesn't like to be touched or groomed, performance issues
  like trouble with weave poles in agility, any movement that involves bending is difficult.
· Weight baring lameness
· Head and neck discomfort - excessive or sudden onset of chewing, chronic head shaking, holding head
  to the side or down
· Refusing forward motion - running around obstacles in agility, not willing to run to the flyball box, doesn't
  want to push off from rear, jump on the bed or out of the car/truck, etc.
· Change in work attitude - doesn't want to play any more
· Refusing or hesitating stair climbing
· Stumbling or stutter stepping
· Coordination issues - difference in how they move or stand
· Hind leg dragging
· Shortened strides
· Injury rehab/post surgical support

What to expect
The first appointment takes approximately one and half hours. During the first appointment, we will talk about your dogs health history, a conformation analysis, and then do a full massage. We will work on a conditioning plan, warm up/cool down routines, and stretching. When you leave your appointment, you will be more informed about how conformation affects gait, how gait affects the dog's muscles, and what you can do to help your dog achieve its very best physical condition.

***Free Initial Consultation***
(approximately 5-10 min appointment, does not include massage)