FAQs

What can I expect during and after my pet's massage?

Most pets settle into a massage session but some animals may take a couple sessions before they feel comfortable enough with a new person to settle and allow bodywork. Each massage session normally will last 45-60 minutes but will greatly depend on your pet’s needs and will include several stages. 

Stage #1:

The opening of the massage allows your pet and I to get acquainted, this starts the minute we meet. 

Stage #2:

The second stage is the palpation stage, an evaluation of your pet’s overall musculature, a check for areas of tension, and the mobility of the joints. This portion is vital to planning the areas of the body needing the most attention. 

Stage #3:

Then we move into the substance of the massage. I will massage certain areas of the body with particular strokes based on observation and palpation. We finish with some light stretching and close with some final gentle strokes. A potty break shortly after a massage and a drink of water is recommended after massage. Most pets feel revived and relaxed and will likely have an overall happy and calm deposition following a massage.

What can I expect during and after my pet's acupressure session?

Most pets settle into an acupressure session but some animals may take a couple sessions before they feel comfortable enough with a new person to settle and allow body work. Each acupressure session normally will last 45-60 minutes but will greatly depend on your pet’s needs and will include what is called Four Examination stages.

Stage #1: Observation

  • Observe Overall (Appearance, Conformation, Shen, Behavior, Responsiveness)

  • Movement/Gait/Flexibility/Lameness

  • Muscle Tone (Excellent, Good, Moderate, Poor)

  • Identify if there is any discharge/inflammation (Eyes, Nose, Ears, Mouth, Gums, Lower Orifices)

  • Condition of Skin, Coat, Nails (Is it: Hot, Dry, Flakey, Patchy, Sticky, Damp, Oily)

  • Identify Imbalances and areas of concern

Stage #2: Listening and Smelling

  • Sounds: Loud/Soft/Weak

  • Smell (Strong or Weak - Rotten, Putrid, Rancid, Scorched, Sweet): Exam of Breath, Body (stool and Urine if needed)

Stage #3: Questioning/History

  • General Background

  • Daily Routine (Exercise, Training, Feeding, Job)

  • Medical History (Surgeries, Medications, Vaccinations, Injuries, Illnesses)

  • Supplements (List with intended purpose)

  • Preferences (Hot or Cold) - Best season, What your pet enjoys

Stage #4: Physical Palpation

  • Take notes on palpation (warm areas, cool areas, sensitive areas, tracing Back Shu Points, etc.)

Can I do anything to prepare my pet for my pet’s session?

Yes! It is best to schedule a massage at a time of day where your pet is normally most relaxed. Obviously, this isn’t always possible, so there are a few things you can do. Try to keep your pet’s routine as normal as possible (example: take your dog for a walk before the massage session). Avoid meals for 1-2 hours prior to the massage and try to make sure they have gone to the bathroom. Having a comfortable, quiet space with limited interruptions for the massage is always encouraged.

How often should my pet receive a massage?

Frequency of massage varies based on each individual pet’s needs. Pets recovering from surgery or that have severe chronic discomfort may benefit from a couple sessions a week where other pets may only need a massage on a monthly basis.

What if my pet is in pain?

Bodywork is not a substitute for veterinary care and your bodywork practitioner cannot diagnose. Though bodywork may be beneficial in most situations, veterinarian care must be primary care and bodywork plays a supporting role.

Where do massages take place?

Typically at Fureverbond’s place of service (clinic) or the clients home, however massages can take place in quiet pet friendly locations outside the home (e.g. vet clinics, parks, offices).