What to Look for in a Canine Bodyworker
Your bodywork therapy should be provided by a professional who has received proper training with expertise in canine anatomy and physiology. Don't hesitate to ask any practitioner about their background, training, and experience. Your dog deserves the best therapy possible.
 Referrals from friends can often be relied on. Members of the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals have met stringent requirements regarding training and must adhere to a strict code of ethics in order to remain members.
Other standards that you should be aware of are:
- Any reputable practitioner should be insured.
- The cleanliness of the practitioner. Hands should be washed prior to each session. The treatment surface must be clean. If blankets or other bedding is used, it cannot be re-used for multiple sessions.
- There are instances when bodywork is not recommended, however. Your practitioner should ask for information regarding any specific health conditions to determine whether bodywork therapy is contraindicated. In some cases, the practitioner may need your veterinarian's permission before providing services to your dog.
And finally, you need to feel comfortable with whomever you entrust to work with your dog. No one person is the perfect fit for everybody. Please feel free to stop by any of the events that I am at and talk to me. If that's not convenient, you can always give me a call @ 585-261-6778 or drop me a line @ denise@rubyourdog.com.
I'm always happy to hear from you.
Regards,
Denise M. Testa.
Certified Canine Massage Therapist (Equissage 2007)
Member of International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork
Member of the Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals
PS. In addition, my day job as a Licensed Veterinary Technician since 1998 and a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (University of Tennessee-2007) give me some insight as well.
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