Massage
Different strokes help our four-legged folks
by Ali Pedalino

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Massage can be administered in a number of ways, depending on the patient’s condition. Based on her experiences, Flanagan has developed a sequence of four traditional massage techniques: Swedish (long stroke), Shiatsu (pressure point), T-Touch (circular motion), and Petrissage (kneading). While working, she speaks to the animals and plays soothing music. “It’s been scientifically validated that animals respond to classical music,” she notes, adding that communication is key to a successful therapy session. “When you have an animal you can’t communicate with or relate to, that animal is not going to relax. That defeats the purpose of what massage is all about.”

Flanagan’s clients attest to her understanding of animals and are grateful for the physical and psychological improvements they observe in their companions. Kathleen Allspaw saw an immediate response in her arthritic 13-year-old terrier mix, Lucy: “After her first visit with Lynne, she was able to actually leap into the air.”

Massage also has psychological benefits. While mostly sought out for physical ailments such as arthritis or hip dysplasia, Flanagan has also witnessed a substantial growth in patients who have suffered from trauma. “The animals feel the energy of love and honor that is transferred from the hands of a masseuse. Massage is an excellent and subtle way for a rescue cat or dog to regain trust when coming from an environment of mistreatment. It builds social skills and helps overcome certain fears.”

In other cases, massage may be used simply for relaxation. It also increases blood circulation, enhances nutrient absorption, and improves immunity. In fact, many sicknesses and conditions can be alleviated by massage because it reaches and improves the function of all organs, tissues, and body systems.

Massage therapists are enjoying a growing demand for their services as more people see first-hand how it can help their animal companions. But there are still those who mistakenly view it as an extravagance. “The problem with massage is that it is looked at as a luxury,” says Kathy Deschenes, whose eight-year-old English springer spaniel Alex receives a massage every three weeks. “It’s like you’re being pampered,” she says. “If people thought about what they are paying for traditional veterinary care, they would at least try it. I am a big fan of holistic approaches to my own health and know how much massage has helped my own ailments.” Allspaw agrees. “I was not surprised that massage could have such a great effect on Lucy, because I know what various body work methods have done for me. But I have never seen such immediate and lasting results as I have from massage therapy.”

Flanagan and Rudinger both believe that in the not-too-distant future, pet massage therapists will emerge at the rate that groomers are popping up today. “The demand is growing as the concept is accepted,” Flanagan says. For now, though, she’s content with her uniqueness in a role that humans may still not fully understand, but that animals comprehend all too well. “I get the best greetings,” she laughs. “I’ve had more than one person say to me, ‘She knew you were coming today.’ The animals are always happy to see me. That’s one of the most gratifying aspects of this job.”

Published in the February/March 2004 issue of Animal Wellness