The list of the most frequently asked questions about animal massage

Animal massage is a therapy where experts gently manipulate muscles and tissues in pets to help them heal, reduce pain, and move better by improving range of motion and flexibility.

Benefits of Massage for Dogs and Horses
Animal bodywork supports both physical and emotional well-being, promoting natural healing and overall health.
Key Benefits:

• Pain Relief – Eases muscle tension, joint discomfort, and chronic pain.
• Improved Circulation – Enhances oxygen and nutrient flow for faster recovery.
• Faster Healing – Aids in recovery from injuries, fatigue, and surgeries.
• Better Mobility – Increases flexibility and helps prevent injuries.
• Reduced Inflammation – Stimulates lymph flow to eliminate toxins.
• Calmer Mind – Lowers stress and anxiety for a more relaxed pet.
• Stronger Immunity – Boosts immune function through better circulation.
• Deeper Bond – Enhances trust and connection through intentional touch.

Enhancing Performance & Well-Being
By relieving tension and improving movement, massage helps your pet perform better, recover faster, and maintain a healthy, balanced body. Whether for pain relief, relaxation, or performance, it’s a valuable tool for their overall health and happiness.

Your care provides comfort and emotional security for your pet, but professional massage goes deeper, addressing physical issues that may not be immediately visible.
Certified Animal Bodyworkers are trained to detect subtle signs of muscle tension, postural imbalances, and movement compensations that can lead to pain, stiffness, or reduced performance. These issues often develop gradually and may go unnoticed until they become more serious.
During a session, a professional assesses your pet for areas of tension, discomfort, or sensitivity, tailoring techniques to their specific needs. They can also identify defensive reactions that offer insight into your pet’s physical condition.
By combining your care with expert massage, you can enhance your pet’s mobility, prevent potential issues, and support their overall well-being.

Massage and other bodywork techniques can be an effective support for your pet’s recovery after veterinary procedures or surgeries, but it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian first and inform me of your pet’s diagnosis to ensure safe and appropriate care.
Animal massage can assist with:

• Soft Tissue or Muscle Injuries: Helps with sprains, strains, and minor muscle tears by promoting healing and reducing stiffness.
• Post-Surgical Recovery: Aids dogs and cats in regaining mobility and comfort after surgery by easing tension and improving circulation.
• Arthritis: Relieves joint stiffness and discomfort, improving overall mobility and quality of life.
• Nerve and Neurological Issues: Supports pets dealing with nerve-related problems by reducing muscle tension and promoting relaxation.

Chronic Pain Management: Helps alleviate long-term pain, enhancing your pet’s comfort and well-being.

Each session is a minimum of 60 minutes for horses and either 30 or 60 minutes for dogs, depending on your preference. If a specific area of the animal requires extra attention and needs more time to process, we will extend the session as needed.

This will be determined after the initial visit. Some horses may need regular sessions, while others only require a few per year. Dogs follow a similar pattern—some benefit from consistent therapy, especially active or senior dogs, while others may only need occasional sessions for maintenance and well-being.

We offer massage services for horses, ponies, donkeys, dogs, cats, small farm sanctuary animals, livestock and other house and barn hold animals. If you own an animal not listed here please contact us to arrange special service.

Every ridden horse, especially sport horses, can benefit from bodywork. Just like human athletes, they experience muscle soreness, tension, and imbalances that can affect performance and comfort. Even horses on light work or pasture rest can develop compensations from past injuries. Regular bodywork helps keep them balanced, comfortable, and moving at their best.

Free 10-min phone consultations are available to discuss session options, health plans, special pet vet issues and questions or concerns an animal owner may have.

Yes! We offer discounts for multi-animal sessions, kennels & rescue organizations. Contact us to know more.

Yes! We offer 5-session and 10-session packages at a reduced price. Contact us to learn more.

We do not currently offer single-technique sessions, such as a standalone kinesiology tape application. Since the body functions as a whole, a full-body assessment ensures the best results and value for your investment. If your veterinarian has recommended a specific modality, feel free to reach out to discuss how we can incorporate it into a session.

For optimal results, we recommend giving your horse the rest of the day off after a session, with only light work (such as lunging, hacking, or a trail ride) the following day. If you need a session before a competition, specialized show prep massages are available to help your horse perform at their best on the same or next day.

Yes! Stall rest can lead to muscle tightness, joint stiffness, and compensatory issues as the body adjusts to reduced movement. Bodywork helps maintain circulation, prevent imbalances, and support proper healing. When combined with your vet’s rehab plan, it can aid recovery and reduce the risk of future injuries. We are happy to collaborate with your vet to tailor sessions to your horse’s needs.

The main rule—make sure your animal is clean. We will provide additional details after booking.
Your massage therapist will bring everything needed, but familiar items like blankets, beds, or toys can help your pet feel more comfortable (unless your dog tends to be a resource guard). If your pet has food sensitivities, you’re welcome to provide their favorite treats.

Every animal reacts differently. Some feel looser and more balanced right away, while others need time to adjust. As restrictions are released, they may temporarily feel different or reveal new areas of tension. This is a normal part of the process and a good sign that the body is responding to the work.

It depends on the horse’s needs. For high-performance horses, 2-4 sessions per month help maintain optimal condition. If there’s an acute issue and the vet recommends bodywork, more frequent sessions—sometimes multiple times a week—may be necessary.

It’s possible that your pet may experience some temporary side effects after a massage. These effects are typically mild and vary depending on the type of massage, the reason for the treatment, and your pet's individual needs. Just as humans have different responses to massage, animals also react based on their age, activity level, and overall health.
Some common side effects include:

• Soreness or stiffness: Especially if muscles or joints have been worked deeply.
• Changes in appetite: Some pets may have a slight decrease or increase in hunger.
• Changes in energy levels: Your pet may feel more relaxed or a bit more energized post-session.
• Elimination variances: Some pets may need to eliminate more or less frequently.
• Improved range of motion: You may notice your pet moving more freely after a session.

These reactions are typically temporary and should resolve within a day or two. They are signs that the body is adjusting and benefiting from the massage. If you have any concerns or if these effects persist, it’s always a good idea to check in with your veterinarian.

Every animal responds differently to massage. Most horses and dogs show noticeable improvements within 48-72 hours, but the timeline depends on their individual needs, condition, and activity level. Some may experience immediate relief, while others may require multiple sessions for lasting results.

Absolutely! These modalities each target different tissues and functions in the body. Massage complements them by relaxing muscles, improving circulation, and enhancing overall effectiveness. Combining multiple techniques can lead to even better results. In fact, massage before or after a chiropractic session can help the body adjust more easily and hold the corrections longer.

Massage is generally most effective after a chiropractic session, as it helps the body integrate adjustments. However, the ideal timing depends on your animal’s specific needs and should be discussed with both your chiropractor and bodywork specialist.

After a session, movement is key. Ideally, turn your horse out or take them for a 20-minute hand walk to keep circulation flowing and reinforce the released areas. Since bodywork stimulates blood flow and fluid movement, always provide fresh water and forage to support recovery and maximize benefits.

After the initial session, your presence isn’t required. It’s helpful if someone is available at the start to jog the horse (if needed) and provide updates. As long as there’s a safe space to work, we can handle the session independently.