Pet owners are turning to massage and bodywork techniques for quality of life and alternative wellness for the animals they love. Specialized trainings and continuing education courses are available for practitioners to receive hands-on training for horses, cats, dogs and more.
Animal bodyworkers provide their services in a variety of settings. Equine massage therapists most commonly travel to their clients - at the farm, boarding location or barn. Canine massage therapists may offer services in a dog grooming location, at the client's location or in a veterinarian's clinic. Others offer dual services - both human and cat or dog massage services in the customer's home. The latter is becoming more popular for the animal lover that would enjoy relaxing with their pet more than a trip to the spa.
Feline Reflexology
Jackie Segers wrote a book in 2007 titled Reflexology for Cats. Since then an interest in using Reflexology techniques on animals has taken a bit of spotlight in the community of Reflexologists. Segers outlines a reflex map in the same vein as the human reflex map - outlining the internal organs and body parts of the feline on their paws.
Animal Reiki
Reiki practitioners frequently use their energywork skills to promote healing and wellness for animal companions. Some even comment on the frequency of an indoor pet coming over to their master's table to soak in the Reiki during a human session.
Horse Massage
Equine massage may be the most common form of animal massage. Many human massage techniques have been translated for use with horses - trigger point, myofascial techniques, CranioSacral therapy, aromatherapy and more. Institutes and schools offer complete certification programs in horse massage, covering anatomy and physiology as well as techniques.
Canine Massage
Massage therapy for dogs is also a very popular form of animal bodywork. Many techniques can be taught to the dog owner to use as homework and maintenance between appointments at home. Dogs are particularly fond of affection and touch, becoming very grateful recipients.
Canine Reflexology
Sue Red Stackhouse teaches workshops on Canine Foot Reflexology in Colorado at her business SRS Canine Foot Reflexology. She also has a home study course available through her website for enthusiasts, practitioners and pet owners to learn the chart and techniques.
TTouch by Linda Tellington-Jones
Tellington-Jones developed a form of bodywork, called TTouch, that can be used on a variety of animals, both domestic pets and wild. She has an international following and workshops are conducted in North America and Europe.
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