Mountain Mutt Massage
Canine Massage Therapy
WHY CANINE MASSAGE?
ENHANCES HEALTH
& HAPPINESS
Canine massage supports and enhances health, happiness, and quality of life for dogs of every age, size, and temperament.
PROMOTES HEALING
& WELLNESS
Massage increases circulation of blood and lymph, reduces swelling, decreases pain, and promotes healing. It improves balance in the body and stimulates muscle tone and flexibility.
REDUCES STRESS
& ANXIETY
Massage helps dogs transition out of fight, flight, or freeze mode and into rest and relax mode. This decreases anxiety and aggression, promoting confidence and emotional stability.
QUALITY OF LIFE
FOR SENIOR DOGS
Gentle sessions can be especially impactful for senior dogs, helping to warm, soften, and ease stiffness and discomfort in muscles and joints.
About
Hi, I’m Rachel and I’m so excited that you’re interested in canine massage! This is an emerging field with countless physical and emotional benefits for your best doggy friend.
I feel extremely lucky and thankful to do this work - I’ve always worked with animals but this is by far my favorite modality. My degree is in animal science from NC State and I have years of experience as a vet tech. When I stumbled across this field, though, I knew it was special. I completed my training through Canis Bodyworks, an immersive hands-on program, and am certified by the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage. Techniques I practice include relaxing Swedish strokes, trigger point therapy and myofascial work, orthopedic friction, energy work, and manual lymphatic drainage. Through massage I can connect with your dog, understand their needs, and help them live their best life.
I feel extremely lucky and thankful to do this work - I’ve always worked with animals but this is by far my favorite modality. My degree is in animal science from NC State and I have years of experience as a vet tech. When I stumbled across this field, though, I knew it was special. I completed my training through Canis Bodyworks, an immersive hands-on program, and am certified by the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage. Techniques I practice include relaxing Swedish strokes, trigger point therapy and myofascial work, orthopedic friction, energy work, and manual lymphatic drainage. Through massage I can connect with your dog, understand their needs, and help them live their best life.
WOOF!
Please fill out the following form before our first session so that I can start getting to know your pup.
CLICK TO FILL OUT FORM
Disclaimer: Massage is not intended to diagnose or cure and is not a substitute for veterinary care. While I work strictly within my scope of practice as a CMT, I am happy to make referrals to other pet professionals for any issues outside that scope.
F.A.Q
Why choose a board certified CMT?
Anyone can rub a dog, right? Well, yeah, but not like this. In order to receive certification, a CMT must pass a national exam after completing an extensive training program including anatomy, behavior, massage theory and a deep dive into various techniques. A certified CMT has tons of hands-on experience with different dogs addressing different issues. Basically, we have the knowledge and experience to interpret body language, assess tissues, and proceed in the way that’s most beneficial for your pup!
What will your first session look like?
I ask that new clients fill out an intake form before our first session so I can start learning about your dog and anticipating their needs. Sessions are conducted in your home, where your dog feels most comfortable and relaxed. When I arrive, I’ll spend some time getting to know you and your dog. I want to hear all about them and their feelings, habits, quirks, and needs. It’s also helpful for me to watch them move around - observing their gait and confirmation gives me a lot of information about their physical comfort. Then I’ll give your dog some love and slowly transition into gentle massage techniques. How we proceed from there will be informed by your dog’s reactions, comfort level, and physical/emotional needs.
What will your dog think about all this?
Massage is a very different type of touch than petting, and dogs are aware of this. Most dogs enjoy this type of therapeutic TLC, but it’s often helpful to have some treats to encourage them to relax and stick around at first. Fearful dogs may take longer to warm up to the process, but I’ve had remarkable success with some such dogs. It just takes time and patience. Some other dogs are all in from the very beginning and may really enjoy deeper work to release muscle tension and trigger points. Regardless, I will ensure that your dog feels safe and comfortable by listening to them and working within their consent, always.
Contact
- Asheville, NC and surrounding areas
- +1-828-775-9484
- rachel@bestfriendbodyworks.com
- by appointment