01/01/2026
Boo has arthritis in his front left leg and dysplasia in his right hip, so his body has learned to move differently to avoid pain. Over time, certain muscles — especially in his back end — became very tight from doing extra work. This was palpated by a Therapist doing a FREE muscular health check at Tatton Park.
I stepped in to provide clinical canine massage that helps those muscles relax again, which takes pressure off the joints and makes movement easier and more comfortable.
When Boo first started massage, I released the muscle tissue where I felt tightness, trigger points and could see skin twitching. Early sessions brought quick, visible relief. As his body began to adjust, the massage started working on deeper layers and his nervous system. That can sometimes look like panting or needing quiet time (as he was more than likely showing by not wanting to go into the room where he had his first massage, maybe he wasn’t ready for a session just yet and he was communicating this) — his body was processing change, not a setback. The most important thing was that his limp stopped and his comfort improved.
We now continue in the room where we first began, he happily greets me and will settle straight away now. He still has to have his regular breaks and he lets us know when he’s had enough.
Massage isn’t just about muscles — it’s about how the whole body adapts over time. For dogs like Boo, changes in response are part of the journey, not a warning sign. By offering consistent, gentle support, we give the body space to move, adjust, and find comfort again.
This is why massage therapy should be part of a multi-modal approach - nutrition, veterinary care, grooming, daily activities and any other therapy that will promote their health and wellbeing on a regular basis.
