MASSAGE AND BODYWORK utilizes various massage techniques, opposition stretches, and active release techniques to restore and/or maintain an animal’s maximum functional capabilities and flexibility. Through an understanding of overall structure, balance, and movement, the entire animal is considered, not just a specific area of soreness. What massage can do: • increase circulation & oxygenation to the cells of the body • expedite removal of wastes & toxins • stimulate the immune system • decrease pain, soreness & stiffness • restore supple muscle tone • improve muscle function • increase flexibility & range of motion • improve socialization skills Conditions that can benefit from massage and bodywork include: • compensatory patterns due to structural imbalances/poor conformation • orthopedic diseases (e.g. hip dysplasia) • postoperative healing • sports injuries • arthritis • hindquarter weakness • aging and inactivity • behavioral issues (fear, anxiety, insecurities) TUI-NA is one of the five branches of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a manual therapy that utilizes numerous massage, acupressure, physiotherapy and osseous manipulations which are applied to acupuncture points and meridians to prevent and treat diseases. Tui-na works by: • regulating acupoints and meridians • soothing joints, ligaments and tendons • promoting circulation of Qi (energy) and Blood • balancing internal (Zang Fu) organs • strengthening the body's resistance Tui-na techniques have been used successfully in the treatment of : • musculoskeletal conditions – neck, shoulder, back, hip, stifle (knee), hock pain; ligament and tendon weakness, arthritis • neurological conditions – nerve paralysis, hemiplegia, epilepsy, Wobbler’s • Wei Syndrome (muscle wasting and general weakness) • hindquarter weakness REIKI is the universal life force energy that permeates all beings and is present in all of nature. It offers a safe, painless, non-invasive energy healing system. Reiki supports the body’s own healing abilities by strengthening and balancing the flow of energy throughout the different body systems. Reiki can heal at all levels: physical, mental, emotional and spiritual. Reiki always works to the highest good for the animal, therefore no harm can result from any Reiki treatment. It goes directly to the source of the problem most in need of healing, which is sometimes unknown, even to the practitioner. It is especially effective for emotional pain and distress by assisting animals to let go of past negative experiences and memories. This can ease the transition of newly adopted rescue or shelter animals into their new homes. It can also be very useful in preparing animals preoperatively for surgery and with postoperative healing. Animals that prefer not to be touched can still experience the positive healing energy of Reiki, as Reiki treatments can be given (and are just as effective) from a distance. Reiki also offers supports to the entire family, human and animal alike, when the loss of a beloved pet is imminent. When Reiki is given at or near the time of passing, it can bring emotional and spiritual healing to all involved, as well as acceptance and relief from pain and fear for the animal. Massage, Tui-na and Reiki, in conjunction with conventional and holistic therapies, especially acupuncture and chiropractic, can produce a better outcome with longer lasting relief of symptoms. This results in a healthier, happier animal. Depending on your pet's specific needs, one or more of these therapies will be incorporated into each session. • 30 and 60 minute sessions • Office appointments and house calls available Please contact Ann for an appointment at: Telephone 619-980-5405 Email: ann@healinghandscaninemassage.com   Please note that the above services are not a substitute for proper veterinary care. If your animal appears to be sick or injured please see your veterinarian as soon as possible.