Sports Massage Therapy
Sports massage releases muscle spasm and tension allowing your horse or dog to move more comfortably.
Sports massage therapists aim not only to relieve the problem, but also to pin point the possible causes, preventing further problems or injuries occurring. We use a combination of massage, stretching and myofacial release and will often advise owners on suitable techniques that they can safely perform themselves to extend the benefits of the treatment.
Moo enjoys a massage to release muscle tension, helping to keep her sound and working at 19 despite having arthritis
If your animal has been injured in the past it may have started to move differently to prevent putting too much weight on the affected area, this movement compensation can cause muscle soreness in other areas of the body. Even after the injury has healed, the animal will continue to move in this new pattern, without muscle release and rehabilitation other structures will fatigue and could cause further related injuries. Conditions such as arthritis or hip dysplasia can compound this effect over time.
Massage is suitable for animals of all ages and can especially benefit elderly animals who will appreciate being relaxed and able to move more comfortably. Massage can help rescued animals become more relaxed and become accustomed to being touched or handled.
Massage for the Horse
Tight muscles and soreness can manifest themselves in behavioural problems; bucking, nipping or pulling faces when tacked up, being cold hacked, consistently jumping to one side or favouring one lead could all be symptoms of muscle soreness.
Increasing flexibility by releasing the muscles can help dressage horses appear more fluid and are able to carry the rider with ease.
Consistently landing on the same lead after a jump can be a symptom of muscle tightness, easing this means that tight turns to next jump can be accomplished with ease on either lead, the horse can lift its shoulders and fold its legs tightly over the jump. Massage can increase body awareness, so the horse can avoid hitting the jump with its hind legs.
If you simply enjoy hacking, massage can help your horses comfort and endurance, allowing you both to enjoy longer rides.
Massage for the Dog
Soreness or tension in the dog manifests itself as difficulty climbing or descending stairs, difficulty when getting up or laying down, dislike of being touched, especially in a particular place, being uninterested in play or going for a walk, or simply sitting to the same side each time.
Agility dogs can become more mobile, able to run faster, jump higher or turn quicker, show dogs can move more freely and become more relaxed and able to show themselves off better.
