Clinical Canine Massage Therapy

What does itcost?

The initial ninety minute treatment, including full consultation is charged at £35.  Subsequent one hour treatments are charged at £30.  The prices are based on a fifteen mile radius of Sudbury, Suffolk.  If you reside outside of this area, a small mileage charge may apply and can be discussed at the time of booking. 


Can I stay with my dog during the treatment?

I would prefer for you to stay with your dog for the duration of the treatment, especially for the first session.  This will help to reassure your dog that there is nothing to worry about as they undergo this new experience and they will feel more relaxed with you around.  Also it gives you, the owner, the opportunity to see what happens during the massage and you can ask me any questions.  

To ensure your dog benefits from the treatments as much as possible, it would be helpful if our environment could remain calm and quiet for the during of the sessions. 


Will my dog experience any side effects?

Just like us, after the massage your dog may experience a healing crisis.  This occurs when the body tries to eliminate metabolic waste at a faster rate that it can be disposed of.  This is the bodies way of cleansing itself and restoring a natural balance.  This is a temporary reaction that lasts between twenty-four and forty-eight hours.  This is normal reaction and does not occur for every dog.  If your dog does experience a healing crisis some of the symptoms you may see include:

  • Lethargy 
  • Unsettled
  • Loss of appetite 
  • Increased thirst
  • Vomiting
  • Increased urination
  • An increase in joint or muscular pain
  • Your dog may be quieter or more withdrawn.

Further advice on the healing crisis and how to look after your dog after the massage will be provided.


Does my dog need to have an injury or orthopaedic condition to receive a massage?

No, your dog does not need to have an injury, orthopaedic condition or recovering from surgery to benefit from a treatment.  Canine massage can be extremely beneficial for young and active dogs as well as senior dogs that have slowed down.  The everyday activities that dogs carry out, such as running, digging, jumping up and chasing a ball as well as others, can result in minor injuries.  Dogs are extremely adept at hiding pain and injuries, however, if these small issues are left untreated, they can often lead to reduced mobility, stiffness, pain and discomfort.  A canine massage treatment can identify these issues early, ensuring your dog remains fit and happy!  Maintenance treatments are useful for sporting dogs to ensure your dog is as fit and healthy as possible for their competition. 


My Vet will not sign my consent form.

Without a signed consent form from your Vet, I am unable to carry out treatments on your dog.  If your Vet is unwilling to sign your consent form or would like further information about Canine Massage Therapy, I am more than happy to speak to them.

However, it may be that your dog has a medical condition which could be aggravated by a massage treatment.  This is why Vet consent forms are so important.  Contraindications to massage include:

  • Skin conditions 
  • Open Wounds
  • If your dog is in shock
  • If your dog is suffering from an acute injury
  • If your dog has a temperature or fever
  • Epileptic fits
  • Pregnancy 

Please note, if your dog has received a vaccination/booster, I will not carry out any treatments until two weeks after it.