Question 1

What is myotherapy?

Accepted Answer

Canine myotherapy is a branch of physical therapy focusing on the musculoskeletal
system of dogs. It incorporates massage, stretching and passive movements of the
limbs to increase circulation to the muscles and the whole body promoting the body’s
healing processes. During massage, knots and pressure is released from nerves,
muscle fibres and joints. This allows the easy flow of nutrients and lets the body
relax into its normal position easing strain and reducing pain. Athletic dogs, senior
dogs and dogs with orthopaedic conditions will have tense muscles that can be
treated with myotherapy. This is also very relaxing for your dog as the nervous
system is calmed and the feel good hormones, endorphins are released.

Question 2

What is Bowen therapy?

Accepted Answer

Bowen therapy is a non invasive touch therapy that applies soft and gentle moves
across muscle, tendon and ligaments. The moves are applied and then the body is
given a few minutes to settle and respond. Bowen also opens up circulation in the
body and affects the connective tissues as well as muscles. This allows for deeper
body tissues to rehydrate and loosen, allowing your animal’s body to draw out toxins
and carry the nutrients into the tissues. This eases pain and facilitates healing.
Dogs and other animals respond well to Bowen as they naturally relax and let the
body be and heal itself. Bowne is ideal for animals dealing with soft tissue injuries
that are move severe such as spinal injuries or post op recovery because Bowen is
gentle. Puppies and pregnant dogs will benefit too.

Question 3

What type of pets can receive a massage or Bowen treatment?

Accepted Answer

Most dogs, cats can receive a massage or Bowen treatment, even mice, chickens
and goats can receive the benefits of small animal Bowen. Canine Bowen therapy
and massage is especially beneficial for dogs with arthritis, postural and walking
problems like hip and elbow dysplasia, anxious dogs, dogs recovering from surgery
and old dogs who don’t recover as well from activity. Active dogs can also gain relief
and prevent injuries from overworked muscles with natural and noninvasive body
work. Pregnant dogs in second and third semester and puppies over 4 months can
receive a light massage or Bowen. There are some contraindications that will
prevent massage which we can discuss with you before your appointment. Bowen
requires your animal to be in an upright position requiring the owner to help keep the
patient still and upright.
Animals that are sick or have a serious disease (eg diabetes or cancer) or have an
acute illness or injury, will need approval from a vet before applying body work.
Animals must be free of parasites and their fur must be in a reasonable groomed
condition.

Question 4

What if my dog won’t let you massage it?

Accepted Answer

I work with the dog and introduce it to touch and making a new friend. Massage isn't
forced as the experience should be a pleasant one. The owner is welcome to keep
the dog or cat in place or on a lead but the experience will always be positive.
If the dog doesn’t want to participate then the consult is free and we can come up
with a plan to get the dog used to the therapist and massage. If there is pain or
discomfort the dog may resist massage and this could be indicative of an underlying
problem. In this case a vet check would be advised.

Question 5

What does a session involve?

Accepted Answer

​The first session will involve an interview about the history and lifestyle of your dog, a
gait and posture assessment and a soft tissue examination to find where your dog
may have problem areas. Massage or Bowen treatment will then be applied aiming
to relieve these problem areas by working the muscles and tendons that are prone to
injury or tightness from any conditions the dog may have. I may need help from you
to keep your dog in place and help them settle. Bowen requires the owner to keep
the animal in a still upright position if possible. We can also give you tips to make
your home more dog friendly. All I need is a quiet room with floor space that is free
from other dogs or distractions.

0423 414 017

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Frequently asked questions

What is myotherapy?

What is Bowen therapy?

What type of pets can receive a massage or Bowen treatment?

What if my dog won’t let you massage it?

What does a session involve?