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Canine Myofunctional Therapy – Dog Massages!

We have decided to increase our range of services we now offer you Canine Myofunctional Therapy (CMT) also known as dog massage. We want to educate people about the benefits of dog (canine) massage as well as help their furry friends. This is why we sent one of our nurses to Melbourne to study and practice CMT. Jess has been we us since 2013, she has a certificate in Animal Studies, Veterinary Nursing and is now a certified Canine Myofunctional Therapy practitioner.

CMT can help pets with arthritis, recovering from orthopaedic procedures and with mobility & flexibility issues.

So what is Canine Myofunctional Therapy?

Canine Myofunctional Therapy or CMT is in the most basic of terms, a massage treatment for dogs which involves diverse massage techniques and stretching.

 

 

 

What are the benefits of canine massage?

  • It stimulates the release of endorphins which can help decrease pain but also reduce stress and anxiety
  • It will improve blood circulation
  • It helps with joint lubrication and range of motion
  • When added to good veterinary care, it can speed recovery time from an injury or surgical procedure
  • Improves athletic performance
  • Massage can encourage the body to heal itself
  • Improves circulation and dilates blood vessels
  • Stimulates lymph circulation
  • Speeds up elimination of wastes and toxic debris
  • Relaxes tight muscles
  • Relieves tension
  • Increases nutrition to the tissues by improving general circulation
  • Improves interchange of substances between the blood and the tissue cells, heightening tissue metabolism
  • Increases the excretion via the kidneys of fluids, inorganic phosphorous salts and waste products of protein metabolism
  • Lengthens connective tissue, breaks down or prevents the formation of adhesions and reduces muscle fibrosis
  • Improves circulation and nutrition to joints and speeds up the elimination of harmful deposits
  • Helps lessen inflammation and swelling in joints and therefore alleviate pain
  • Increases blood supply and nutrition to muscles without adding to the load of lactic acid produced through voluntary muscle contraction
  • Enhance muscle tone and increases range of motion
  • Endeavours to free motion and correct damaged muscles by releasing adhesions
  • Stimulates internal organs to work efficiently

When do we recommend it?

  • Massage after (orthopaedic) surgery:

Often dogs are reluctant to use a limb after a painful procedure, muscles weaken and they are less able to use that limb leading to muscle atrophy. Return to normal function is slowed down and can even become impossible.

Canine massage can help your dog make a smoother recovery, returning to health faster and reducing the pain.

  • Flexibility and mobility:

Pets of any age can benefit from CMT. Young active dogs who get carried away wrestling and playing in the park can also strain muscles. Massage can help your pet regain the flexibility and mobility.

 Do you have a dog with arthritis?

Arthritis is a disorder of the joints; it can have many causes. The most common cause is from old age but can also be caused from an injury that affects the joint. It can even be congenital, for example arthritis can develop from hip dysplasia.

Canine massage will not cure arthritis but it will increase the release of synovial fluid which acts as a lubricant in the joints. It will also increase the dog’s range of motion and help prevent its muscles from atrophying due to lack of activity.

  • Stress and anxiety:

Stress and anxiety are a common issue in dogs of all ages, getting a massage provides great benefits for your pet’s psychological well-being. It reduces stress and stimulates the release of endorphins which will help your little one feel more relax and enjoy their visit to the vet.


Our products and services

  • Post-operative massage
  • Relaxation massage
  • Geriatric care massage and advice
  • Arthritis care massage and advice
  • Qualified nurse examination
  • Internal referral to Veterinary care if indicated: consultation, radiographs, prescription medications

Some examples of contraindications:

Massage has a lot of benefits but there are also some contraindications that have to be considered before getting your pet massaged. Always ask your veterinarian for advice if you are unsure.

  • Severe fear or trust issues, as the dog might never fully relax and enjoy the benefits of a massage
  • Human aggression
  • Some skin issues
  • Malignancies
  • Some stages of pregnancy