Q.  Can you massage a pregnant dog? 

Q.  Can you massage a sick dog that is in pain?  

We can determine it case by case.  Areas of heat and/or swelling should never be massaged.  However, a collateral action can be taken to reduce swelling and relieve any associated pain which we call "de-swelling".  Please also note:

        *Massage cannot be given to a dog when there is evidence of a fever 

        *Massage cannot be given in nearly all forms of skin disease, except in the thinkended condition of the skin

          left behind by chronic eczema 

Q.  I'm not sure if my dog can stay still for the entire massage session.

Normally, if your dog is natually hyper by breed or very young, we recommend having him/her walk or excercise prior to an appointment.  Also, if your dog is having a massage for the first time, it is likely for him/her to be a bit skeptical, but it is very common and understandable.  There is no need for him/her to stay still the entire time.   Massage can be administered even in a stand-up position.  Ideally,  he/she will figure out that massage makes him/her feel good and learn to relax and  lay down when ready, rather than being forced.  Each session will be easier and easier as the dog gets accustomed to the touches and strokes.  

Q.  Can you just massage the area that my dog is having a trouble?  He doesn't need a full body massage. 

A session needs to be full body because massage can be most effective when 'body balance' can be restored.  It may seem on the surfice that the right hind leg is the only problem.  However, his left hind leg and fore legs along with the surrounding areas are over-worked in order to compensate the right hind leg.