New Canine Clients

Planning For Your Dog’s Bodywork Session

Step 1: Submit Your Health History And Consent Form

Before we get started with your dog’s first bodywork assessment and session, please take a few minutes to complete your history form.

Step 2: Book Your Dog’s Session

If you have not already booked your dog’s session you’re welcome to request an appointment time here.

Step 3: Prepare Your Dog For Their Session

Plan to exercise your dog before their session time so that they can rest and process afterward. Try to allow for at least 2 full days of lighter activity after their session if this is their very first bodywork session.

Relax and bring your best self to their appointment. These sessions can be very informative and ultimately should be restorative for you both. Bring the energy that you would to your favorite day at the spa.

What To Expect During A Session

Your dog’s session will begin with us reviewing any questions or additional thoughts you may not have noted on your health history form. Together we’ll assess your dog’s current mobility and postural habits.

Afterward, we’ll choose the location you feel your dog will be the most comfortable. We will be here for at least an hour, an hour and a half. One with limited distractions and where they feel safe is best.

I’ll begin with a quick scan of their body to feel for any areas of tension or restrictions. We’ll then chat about the bodywork protocols that I feel will be of benefit to your dog’s current state. Once you are comfortable with the plan, we’ll begin.

Be prepared for long, quiet pauses throughout the series of hands-on moves. We need to allow your dog time to process each set, allowing the brain to integrate the information being sent. This is a great time to ask any questions or note any changes you may see in your dog during the session. Often we will see them show the following signs of releasing tensions and receiving messages:

  • Licking or chewing

  • Yawning

  • Relaxed body posture

  • Sleeping

  • Fidgeting

  • Snorting, sneezing, or sighing

So don’t worry if you suddenly feel like your dog isn’t as quiet as they normally would be. This is their way of providing me with feedback as we go through the movements. I’ll share with you what I feel and notice in their body throughout the session.

At the end of the session, we’ll review key areas that I need you to monitor for me. Depending on your dog’s needs we may also chat about some exercise homework you can do between sessions for success.

Feel free to reach out at any time after a session with any questions or concerns. It takes a full team for your dog to be at their best and you are the frontline!

We’re happy to share any findings and successes with your other healthcare team members.

Thank you again for supporting your dog to be all that they can be!