1.What is pet massage, how does it differ from human massage?
The principles of pet massage are similar to human massage. The main
differences are:
A) The pet’s body is smaller so we adjust the amount of pressure
accordingly. We also adjust the amount of surface area of our hands that
make contact with the animal’s body.
B) A full session on a pet is about half the duration of a human session.
C) The practitioner receives feedback from the patient regarding levels of
discomfort with a particular massage stroke. Humans can verbalize this to
the practitioner. Animals communicate with their body language and the
practitioner must be observant of this.
D) Our muscular systems have the same function and perform the same way,
but we are obviously structured differently than our pets. An
understanding of dog and cat anatomy will reveal the location and size of
the pet’s muscle groups.
Though there are differences in approaches to bodywork for different
species (human, canine, feline), there are going to be differences within
species. Not all humans want a massage, and the same goes for dogs and
cats. For those humans and animals who are receptive to massage, each will
prefer different qualities of touch. For example, I have 2 cats—littermate
brothers. On one, I can use the same amount of pressure that I can use on
a large, healthy dog. On the other, even though he is a more fit, athletic
cat, he demands a very light touch. Both cats benefit from their desired
approaches.
E. What kind of pets need massage or do you offer svc to?
Most of my patients are senior animals dealing with issues of aging,
arthritis being the most common. Bodywork can be very effective in
providing support and comfort for older, less active animals by toning the
muscles and improving flexibility and circulation
Also, it is excellent support for recovery from an injury or surgery. This
should be carried out in consultation with a veterinarian.
In a few instances, I have been employed to help with behavioral issues.
As a side benefit, when I am working on an animal’s physical issues, any
behavioral issues they have are usually improved.
3. How long have you been practicing? Is there a big demand in new york
city for this type of svc?
I have been in practice for almost 6 years.
The general public is gradually learning more about bodywork for pets
through media stories or indirectly through people who have seen its
benefits. It is easier to accept by pet owners who experience the benefits
of bodywork on themselves.
I have had clients who are skeptical at first, but used my services
because of a veterinary referral. After seeing positive, rapid results on
their pets, they quickly become believers in the work.
I’m cutting back a little on practice and focusing more on teaching and
writing. I want to encourage pet owners to work on their own pets as a way
to connect with them on a meaningful level. This is done in a way that
benefits both animal and human. This human/pet connection is important,
but does not eliminate the occasional need for a trained professional to
address specific wellness issues.
4. How do you handle pets with behavioral issues?
When I work on a pet for the first time, I approach slowly and gently and
get a sense of what their threshold is. Some animals accept the work
instantly. For some it’s a more gradual process, but eventually they
become more cooperative as they gain trust in me and realize that I’m not
going to hurt them (and that I’m going to make them feel VERY good).
5. Tell us a good story of a pet that got helped from massage.
One of my favorites is about a young cat named Gus that had to have a
portion of his left front leg surgically removed after he was a victim to
an abusive incident as a kitten. My client who adopted Gus noticed that
his mobility became quickly compromised and his joints became swollen. At
one year of age, Gus was diagnosed with severe osteoarthritis. My client
was referred to me by a veterinarian at Hope, and we began our journey of
recovery.
At first, Gus had massages almost every week. He improved quickly.
Gradually, our sessions were scheduled less frequently as Gus maintained
easier mobility and his swelling disappeared. He also made behavioral
improvements. Beginning as a timid and tense cat, Gus became more relaxed
and confident.
Four years after we started, we continue to have sessions every 4 to 6
weeks. In the words of Gus’s owner: “Lon has done amazing work with Gus
and has given him a life he would not have otherwise had. The arthritis
was making it nearly impossible for Gus to walk or jump and his condition
was deteriorating rapidly prior to Lon’s treatment. Gus is now without any
signs of illness and a very happy—and determined—cat.”
