Workshops introducing dog owners to the benefits of canine massage are soon to be held in Malta.
Ideal for dogs of all ages and breeds, canine massage can help to treat muscle pain in dogs that is often underestimated and might be otherwise difficult to diagnose, while also providing a unique bonding experience that boosts understanding between a dog and its owner.
Besides pain relief, the benefits of canine massage also include improved movement, increased joint flexibility, the enhanced condition of the skin and coat, better sports performance, faster recovery from injury, and even quicker postoperative recovery.
"Our dogs very rarely tell us plainly that they are in pain," says workshop leader Jacqueline Newholm, who will be travelling to Malta from her base in UK to give these workshops. "As well as providing pain relief, dog massage therapy has discernible effects on the body's various organ systems. It helps to keep the organ tissues healthy and promotes healing so that the function and efficiency of the whole body is enhanced."
For Ms Newholm, the discovery of Canine Massage came about in 2008 when she adopted Tabasco, an exuberant puppy who inspired her to study Canine Psychology and then Canine Massage, in which she later gained a professional diploma in the UK. As a practicing Canine Massage Therapist since January 2015, she set up Big Brown Dog Canine Massage Therapy (www.bigbrowndogtherapy.co.uk) to offer dog owners an alternative therapy to traditional medicine.
Whilst the treatment would be the same in any country, she feels that dog massage could be especially beneficial to dogs living in Malta. "Due to the Maltese climate most floors here are made of wood, stone or tiles, which can prove slippery and difficult for dogs to manage. This can even cause undue stress on their joints whilst they are trying to keep their balance, especially when it comes to dogs suffering from arthritis. At the workshop Ms Newholm will discuss ways to help minimise the impact of slippery floors and other household and environmental obstacles which can hinder your dog's mobility."
Suitable for all dog owners including those with no massage experience, the Canine Massage workshops will teach attendees to relax even the most excitable of dogs, although Ms Newholm advises owners to seek medical advice beforehand should their dog have any serious health-related conditions that may make massage unadvisable.
Limited to 10 dog-and-handler places per workshop, this Introduction to Canine Massage workshop will be held on Saturday 13th May at Piscopo Gardens, Tony Camilleri Street, Burmarrad, SPB 9063, with two sessions to choose from - one from 9.30am-12.30pm and the other from 2-5pm. The participation fee is €45 and places can be booked here. To reserve a place at either workshop, or for more information regarding Canine Massage, please email [email protected].