Enrollment CLOSED indefinitely.
Purpose: To learn when, how and why to apply canine massage in a safe and positive environment.
Course Information: Students will learn all the relevant Swedish massage therapy strokes; history and theory of massage; definition and purpose of massage for canines; creating a positive environment for massage; physiological effects of massage for canines; psychological effects of massage for canines; contraindications to massage for canines; assessment and treatment protocols for canines; an introduction to hydrotherapy for canines; canine biomechanics and kinesiology; case studies of common canine soft tissue issues. Students will be provided with a comprehensive manual and an instructional video. The video provides details on the assessment procedures – visual, palpation and gaiting including the impact different surfaces will have on the gait, the creation of a positive and safe working environment, all the massage strokes, a complete therapeutic massage session and a stretch routine. Each class will also contain video demonstrations.
Prerequisites: Canine Anatomy and Physiology
What you can expect to learn in this course:
- History of massage.
- Theory of massage.
- Contraindications of massage.
- Creating a safe and positive massage environment.
- Assessment protocols – including taking a case history, gaiting to assess soundness, palpation.
- All Swedish massage strokes – including effleurage, raking, petrissage, kneading, tapotement, cupping and hacking.
- Hydrotherapy.
- Stretch routines – both active and passive protocols.
- Creation of homecare plans.
- Beginning of the case study requirement of massaging 10 different dogs at least 4 times.
Course Completion Deadline: This course must be completed in its entirety within 6 months from the date of registration.
Instructor: Sheilagh O’Sullivan
Course Length: Twelve 90 minute sessions.
Student Information:
You must also read and agree to the E-Training for Dogs, Inc. Standard Terms and Conditions prior to taking a course: Click HERE to read these. You will be asked when you register if you have read them and will not be allowed to take the course if you do not agree to the terms.