In addition to its relaxing and comforting effects, massage has many healing properties. It improves circulation, relieves muscle spasms and fluid build-up, improves sensory function, reduces pain, and helps joints to return to their normal range of motion. At Healing Touch we often use massage to prepare your pet for more comfortable and effective exercise therapy.

Massage is applied to canine patients at Healing Touch with specific goals for physical and psychological change. Massage relieves soreness, spasm, scar tissue, and tension in musculature. It promotes flow in the lymphatic and circulatory systems, causing a "flushing effect" especially beneficial in pain relief and immediately following exercise. The apparent psychological benefits are relief of distress, anxiety, and discomfort, and massage is generally observed to be enjoyed by dogs.

Rebecca Hiatt is a licensed Veterinary Technician with extended training in canine massage, and experience in canine athletic performance.