FAQS
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need Vet consent for you to see my dog?
I respect and abide by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and Exemption Order 2015 by never working upon an animal without gaining prior veterinary approval. This means that it is against the law for me to work on your dog without first gaining vet consent as well as invalidating my insurance .
It is also in your dog’s best interest to make sure he/she is well enough for massage and has no contraindications for me to perform massage.
You can download a vet consent form for your vet here
Do I stay with my dog during the session?
**Update - Normally you would be asked to stay with your dog. But now there must be a 2M distance whilst I work with your dog due to COVID-19.
Yes, you stay with the dog and are involved in the whole experience. I will ask you to be with your dog to help him/her relax and keep a watchful eye on them as you know your dog best and can tell how they are feeling. Many owners find it a good bonding experience and also leave feeling they too have shared in the relaxing experience.
On occasions and owner may be asked to leave if I feel they too excitable for their dog. This rarely happens but please do not be offended if asked to leave.
How long is each session?
How much does it cost to and how often would I need my dog to attend?
Each session is £36. As a Canine Massage Guild member, I aim to see results with 1 to 3 sessions. This means that I hope to see a positive outcome after 3 weekly appointments. It is best to make sure you can do 3 appointments around 7 to 10 days apart initially. After that it depends on each individual dog and their issue. Here are 2 extreme examples:
Example1: A normally fit. young and healthy dog becomes lame due to a strain in a muscle. The dog attends 3 weekly sessions and is back to full fitness – I wouldn’t expect to see this dog again.
Example 2: An older dog with osteoarthritis has become stiff after a walk, slowing down and struggling to get up onto the sofa. After 3 weeks I would hope to see that the dog is less stiff, not as slow and can possibly get back onto that comfy sofa, he/she may need a few extra sessions to make sure he/she is comfortable. However, due to the arthritis I would expect to see this dog again as he starts to stiffen up again. This could be anything from monthly to only every 6 months – totally depends on the dog and you their owner.
What do I need to bring?
Where are you and is their parking?
Due to COVD-19 I am now working from home and this will involve working outdoors in my garden.
Do you do any CPD – Continued Professional Development?
Yes, as a Canine Massage Guild member I am required to do 25hrs of CPD every year. I am continually learning and developing my skills to ensure I give your dog the best I can. I am just currently back from learning more Lenton MethodTM techniques which I know will help some of the dogs I currently work with.
The type of work that I do is always changing and being challenged so it is vital to keep ahead to be able to continue to work with your dog.
Can't find your question/answer?
Please contact me:
My dog is really nervous, can you still see her?
I am happy to do an assessment of your dog during the first session or try to pop along to one of my free muscular health checks to discuss further.