(239) 281-7777

Certified Canine and Equine Massage and Acupressure Practitioner
Therapeutic Massage • Sports Massage • Acupressure • Reiki Level II

Remember! Animal massage is NOT a substitute for veterinary medical care
but rather a COMPLEMENT to it.

I am mobile!  I usually come to your home or stable-it is beneficial for the animals to be in their own environment. It is safe and familiar, and relieves the stress of traveling. But if your location or other animal companions are not conducive to massage sessions in your home, dogs are welcome to have their massage sessions scheduled at the Training studio on Pine Island Road. There are massage tables, and mats, relaxing music (made specifically for calming dogs!) and gentle aromatherapies, to make the experience as soothing as possible.

How Can Massage Help My Companion?

Massage manipulates the soft tissues of the body to achieve drainage, relaxation or stimulation, as well as the release of muscle related problems such as trigger points and stress points. Massage increases the circulation of body fluids (blood and Lymph) which results in increases oxygenation. Increased oxygenation speeds up metabolism, leading to enhanced performance and shorter recuperation time, especially in older and convalescing animals. Massage helps reduce the build up of fibrous tissue adhesions that result from inflammation caused by trauma (stains, blows) or wounds. Adhesions can cause stiffness and soreness when the dog moves. During massage, a practitioner can sense areas of tightness, pain and restrictions and can focus on these areas.

Relaxation Massage: Greatly contributes to relaxing the nervous system and can be done any time to increase circulation and promote wellness. In addition to maintaining optimum wellness, knowing your animal’s body can help you detect changes that may indicate injury or disease.

After injury or surgery: Gentle massage 1-2 days post surgery can help release anesthesia from body. Two weeks after surgery deeper massage will promote healing.

Sporting animals: Pre-event massage warms up dogs by increasing blood flow to the muscles. Post-event massage loosens muscles and joints and prevents stiffness and soreness. Massage increases flexibility, and helps facilitate recovery.

Puppies/young horses: Massage increases trust, promotes socialization and handling, and can ease the tension of new growth stages. Foals and large breed puppies are greatly helped by massage of limbs in which joints are extended and flexed to increase circulation. Since limbs grow at the ends near the joints and fast growing breeds are prone to sprains and strains, regular massage around the joints will accelerate healing.

Elderly animals: Massage helps old and convalescing animals particularly those suffering from impaired heart and kidney function. As circulation is stimulated toxins are removed from tissues, and nutrients supplied. Many older animals suffer from degenerative or chronic disorders which benefit from the stimulating tonifying effects of massage. Muscular cramps, early morning stiffness, arthritis, certain spinal disorders, and some skin conditions will improve with regular massage. In addition to relieving pain, massage can help tone degenerating muscles. Aging and chronically ill animals get a new lease on life and feel more secure and comforted after a good massage.

For Massage...
I typically recommend 4 sessions, one per week for 4 weeks,
and then monthly maintenance sessions thereafter.

Athletes should receive weekly or bi- weekly maintenance sessions
depending on how often they work/compete.

Call Kelly Legarreta at 239-281-7777 for questions, pricing, and scheduling!