East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies

24/04/2025

I love diving into the fascinating world of canine anatomy! The dog’s triceps muscle is essential for various functions, such as extending the elbow and aiding in powerful movements like jumping and running. Understanding this muscle helps us appreciate our dogs' agility and strength!
🙏K9 BodyWork for a great post

23/04/2025

📚🐾 Exciting Announcement for World Book Day! 🐾📚

In honor of World Book Day, we're thrilled to introduce our brand-new Canine Book Lending Scheme at our clinic East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies for our customers 🐶✨

This new lending scheme allows you to borrow a variety of canine-themed books right here at our clinic. From training guides, veterinary books (for the canine students) and health tips to heartwarming stories and informative reads, there’s something for every dog lover.

How It Works:
1. Browse our collection of canine literature.
1. Choose the books that interest you.
2. Borrow them for a designated period and return them on your next appointment!
3. We kindly request a small fee that goes to one of our sponsored canine charities for borrowing the books, if you're able to contribute.

Let’s celebrate our love for dogs and the joy of reading together! Feel free to share this post and spread the word to other dog enthusiasts. We can't wait to see you and share some fantastic reads! 🥳🐕

! 📖💕

20/04/2025

Is your Dog Sensitive to Loud Noises?

Does your dog react fearfully to sounds like fireworks, thunderstorms, or even everyday noises such as traffic or household appliances? It’s important to consider that these reactions might not just be behavioral—they could also indicate underlying pain.

Recent studies have highlighted a significant connection between noise sensitivity and musculoskeletal pain in dogs. A study conducted by the University of Lincoln examined 20 dogs with noise sensitivity—10 with musculoskeletal pain and 10 without.

Findings: The study found that:
Dogs with musculoskeletal pain developed noise sensitivity approximately four years later than those without pain.

Pain-associated dogs exhibited a broader range of avoidance behaviours, including avoiding not only the noise source but also associated environments and other dogs.

🌟🌟These pain-related noise-sensitive dogs responded positively to treatment once the underlying pain was addressed.🌟🌟

This study underscores the importance of veterinarians & Canine Musculoskeletal Therapists conducting thorough assessments for pain in dogs presenting with noise sensitivity.

Musculoskeletal Pain Clinics at East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies: First Saturdays of the Month

Our musculoskeletal pain clinics are held on the first Saturday of each month, led by a CAM (Canine Arthritis Management) Veterinary Pain Practitioner. These clinics are designed to provide comprehensive assessments and tailored treatment plans for dogs experiencing musculoskeletal pain.

Reference:-
For more detailed information, you can refer to the full study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science:
Noise Sensitivities in Dogs: An Exploration of Signs in Dogs with and without Musculoskeletal Pain Using Qualitative Content Analysis
Fagundes et al., Front. Vet. Sci., 13 February 2018

20/04/2025

Can you guess the breed?

So pleased to have Bruce at East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies for a comprehensive musculoskeletal pain assessment today, his owner was concerned that he may be experiencing pain.

Musculoskeletal Pain Assessment Clinic by a CAM Veterinary Practitioner

Join us on the first Saturday of every month for our specialised clinic dedicated to assessing musculoskeletal pain in dogs.

Our comprehensive evaluation includes:-

✨Advanced musculoskeletal testing:-
During this process, I will be assessing areas of dysfunction such as:-
* Increased muscle tension and radiating myofascia pain
* Changes in muscles tone, texture, trigger points, adhesions, muscle strains
* Areas of asymmetry
* Muscle atrophy
* Changes in coat texture or temperature
* Sensitivity or anxiety about a specific area being touched

✨Joint Testing
During this process, I will be assessing your dogs joints, looking at:-
* Range of motion
* Comfort throughout the range
* End feel (normal vs abnormal - bony (e.g. in the hip), springy block, muscle spasm, capsular, empty)
* Accessory joint movements

✨ Pain Evaluation- clinical measurement instruments (CMIs) to assess your dog’s pain.

✨ static/postural, functional movement and gait analysis.

✨Weight management. Checking your dogs weight and recording of muscular measurements, Including body conditioning scoring and weight management advice.

✨ Home Environment Recommendations: Practical advice to help improve your dog's comfort at home.

✨Vet report and referral to other canine professionals.

Feel free to contact me for further information.

Contact Information:
📧 Email: [[email protected]]
📞 Phone: 07418 082 240

20/04/2025

🌷🐰 Happy Easter to all my wonderful clients and their dogs! 🌼🐶

As we celebrate this joyful holiday, I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your continued support and trust. It is a pleasure to work with you and your dogs.

Wishing you all a beautiful Easter filled with love, joy, and quality time together.

Thank you for being an integral part of our community!

19/04/2025

Looking for stuff to do with you dogs in May …..
Scentwork, gundog work, reactivity classes, behaviour work, tracking , life skills courses …..

18/04/2025

✨My role as your dog’s Canine Musculoskeletal Therapist✨

I am truly grateful to have what I believe is the best job in the world—working with your dog is both a calling and a blessing. Every day, I remind myself of how lucky I am to serve as your dog’s therapist!

While you may typically see me treating your dog at the clinic, there's so much more to my role than meets the eye. My commitment to being the best musculoskeletal therapist for your dog drives me to continually develop my skills and knowledge.

Here’s a glimpse into what I do:

- Continued Professional Learning: Last year, I dedicated over 800 hours to furthering my education in canine studies, focusing on areas such as canine osteopathy, clinical nutrition and veterinary pain management. I also have exciting new practitioner programs lined up for this year to enhance my expertise even further.

- Local Professional Association: I have recently helped establish a local association for canine professionals, specifically for physiotherapists and musculoskeletal therapists. This initiative fosters collaboration and knowledge-sharing, ultimately leading to better clinical outcomes for your dog.

- Collaboration with Veterinarians: I spend significant time each week communicating with other canine professionals, including your veterinarian, to ensure your dog receives the most comprehensive care possible.

- Research and Innovation: I dedicate hours to researching new products and equipment that can enhance my clinic and improve treatment and rehabilitation programs for your dog.

- Behavioral Support: I collaborate with clinical veterinary behaviorists to ensure that even the most anxious or nervous dogs can feel comfortable in the clinic environment. Respecting each dog's individual needs allows them to settle into their sessions and focus on their treatment.

My commitment as your dog’s musculoskeletal therapist is to provide the highest standard of care within my scope of practice.

🙏 Thank you for trusting me to treat your dogs. It is a privilege I do not take for granted.










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17/04/2025

Omega 3’s. Have I mentioned before the benefits for your dog 🤣

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that can provide numerous health benefits for dogs.

Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Dogs

1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Omega-3s have been shown to reduce inflammation, which can be beneficial for dogs suffering from conditions like arthritis, allergies, and skin issues. They help in managing chronic inflammatory diseases.

2. Skin and Coat Health: These fatty acids can improve the quality of your dog's skin and coat, resulting in a shinier appearance and reducing issues like dryness and shedding.

3. Heart Health: Omega-3 fatty acids support cardiovascular health by helping to lower blood pressure, reduce triglyceride levels, and prevent blood clots.

4. Cognitive Function: Studies indicate that Omega-3s, particularly DHA (Docosahexaenoic acid), may help improve cognitive function, especially in older dogs. This can potentially reduce the risk of cognitive dysfunction syndrome.

5. Joint Health: By reducing inflammation, Omega-3s can help alleviate joint pain and improve mobility in dogs with joint problems.

6. Immune Function: Omega-3 fatty acids can enhance immune response, helping dogs fight off infections and diseases.

Slowing Down & Preventing Kidney Disease🐾

Study showed pets with kidney disease fed omega-3s lived about 140% longer than those who weren’t!

📌 Dose: 90mg/kg of body weight per day (combined EPA/DHA)
That’s not just impressive—it’s life-changing.

Kidney disease is one of the most common (and often silent) threats to our pets’ health, especially as they age. By the time symptoms show up, your cat or dog may have already lost up to 75% of kidney function. But here's the good news: early intervention + the right support can dramatically extend lifespan and improve quality of life.

This SATURDAY at 12pm ET, we’re going LIVE on the Inside Scoop Podcast to discuss:

🧠 The early signs of kidney disease (and why you shouldn't wait for symptoms)
💊 Research-backed supplements, including dosages
🧬 Functional testing protocols to catch issues early
🥩 The truth about diet—what really supports kidney health (and what doesn't)

📄 PLUS: You’ll get a free downloadable Kidney Disease Protocol PDF with supplement recommendations, testing recommendations, plus Dr. Susan Recker, from Animal Diet Formulator, has created low phosphorus, high omega-3 homemade recipes for you, in addition to Dr. Becker‘s PDF on managing kidney issues using nutrients, herbs and supplements backed by science!

We’ll also be answering your questions LIVE—so if your pet is showing symptoms, has been diagnosed, or you just want to prevent problems down the road, you don’t want to miss this.

📅 Bring your questions and we’ll see you on this special SATURDAY edition of the Inside Scoop.

Comment SCOOPERS and we'll message you the link to join Inside Scoop, a Planet Paws monthly subscription group, where all live podcasts are available to watch at any time. Plus, over 5 years of content including: past live podcasts, interviews, ebook downloads, and more!

17/04/2025

🌟Canine Behaviourists,Please read🌟
⬇️⬇️⬇️

Are you a canine behaviourist seeking to enhance your practice by integrating pain management strategies into behavioral assessments and interventions?

Do you have the following behavioural cases?
* separation related problems
* frustrations
* aggression to people or dogs
* multi pet and multi species households
* excessive barking or vocalising
* noise sensitivities
* phobias, fears, anxieties
* comPULsive behaviours
* COGNITIVE DECLINE
* toileting issues

As a CAM veterinary pain practitioner, I am deeply passionate about alleviating (maladaptive ) pain in dogs. Many of you are already aware that pain and behaviour are closely interconnected. This understanding drives my collaboration with behaviorists in the East Midlands. By combining our expertise, we aim to provide a comprehensive approach to help dogs experiencing both behavioral issues and pain. Together, we can enhance the quality of life for our canine companions and address their needs more effectively.

Chronic pain frequently serves as an underlying factor contributing to various behavioral issues observed in dogs. By effectively addressing and managing pain, we can enhance not only their physical health but also their emotional well-being. Recognizing and treating pain can lead to significant improvements in a dog's behaviour, reducing anxiety, aggression, noise phobia, separation anxiety and other stress-related issues. This holistic approach can pave the way for better training outcomes and a stronger human-animal bond.

🌟If you are a canine behaviorist interested in collaborating with me at my pain assessment clinic to create meaningful changes for our canine companions, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore innovative ways to integrate our expertise and enhance the well-being of dogs facing behavioral challenges. Let’s connect and discuss how we can make a positive impact. Please get in touch.
🌟🌟Exciting opportunities to commence in the Summer 🌟🌟

17/04/2025

Rosie’s Progress Update
Rosie, our beloved German Shepherd, has been undergoing treatment at East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies to help with global arthritis and compensatory musculoskeletal issues.

We’re pleased to share that she’s responding exceptionally well. With a comprehensive management plan including, treatment of osteopathy and clinical massage, and exceptional supportive care by her Caregiver, Rosie is showing marked improvement in her mobility and overall comfort.

15/04/2025

🐕 Here’s Cloro, the Brittany.

I’ve always had a special fondness for gundogs, and there’s nothing quite like a Brittany. Cloro may not have had the best start in life, but he’s now truly living his best life. He’s currently at East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies, where he’s beginning his treatment journey.

🙏A heartfelt thank you to Aura Belvoir Paws and Claws for bringing him for his assessment /treatment

13/04/2025

Dogs, like humans, are vulnerable to environmental toxins. They can absorb harmful chemicals from various sources such as the ground, water, and even the floor

Signs of Toxicity in Dogs

If a dog has been exposed to toxins, signs may include:

- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Increased thirst or urination
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing

For more information about pet safety and household toxins, you can refer to sources such as the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Pet Poison Helpline:

- ASPCA Poison Control: [ASPCA Animal Poison Control](https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control)
- Pet Poison Helpline: [Pet Poison Helpline](https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/)
🙏The Balanced Canine for this great post

🚨 Did you know your dog could be absorbing toxic chemicals from your floor?

Indoor pollution isn’t just a human issue – it’s a silent threat to our pets too. According to the EPA, indoor air can be 2–5x more polluted than outdoor air – often due to everyday cleaning products.
But here’s where it gets really shocking…

In a groundbreaking 2022 study, scientists found hundreds of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in dogs’ urine – many of which are linked to household cleaning agents.
These include:
• Benzene, a known carcinogen
• Toluene, linked to neurological damage
• Xylene, associated with organ toxicity
• Limonene, a “fragrance” ingredient that can form formaldehyde when reacting with ozone indoors!

The study confirmed:

“Dogs may serve as sentinels of indoor environmental exposure.”
In simpler terms — our dogs are soaking up the toxins in our homes. Through their paws, their nose, their skin — and their urine proves it.

Study; Vasconcelos, A. L. S., Valente, B. D., Lemos, M. R. B., Brandão, A. L., & Martendal, E. (2022). Volatile organic compounds in urine of dogs from urban households. Environmental Pollution, 311, 119894.

And get this — it only takes 26 seconds for cleaning chemicals on the floor to enter your dog’s bloodstream via their paws.
Their bodies are absorbing what we spray, mop, and wipe around our homes daily.

These chemicals have been associated with:
❌ Allergies & asthma
❌ Skin irritation & hot spots
❌ Hormone disruption
❌ Immune dysfunction
❌ Increased cancer risk

But here’s the good news…
You can make simple swaps that have a huge impact on your pet’s long-term health.
Start replacing your products as you run out with non-toxic, pet-safe alternatives — they’re just as effective (and often better for your wallet too!).

Here are some trusted, low-tox brands to try:

🇬🇧🇺🇸🇦🇺Ingenious Probiotics evaa+ – probiotic-based & pet-safe
🇬🇧 Purdy & Figg – natural essential oil concentrates
🇨🇦 The Bare Home – refillable & eco-friendly
🇺🇸 Branch Basics – plant-powered, human and pet-safe
🇦🇺 Koala Eco – beautiful AND biodegradable
🇬🇧 All Natural Pet – safe cleaning for pets, by pet people

Let’s clean up our homes, not our pets’ health.
Want to learn more about creating a low-tox home for your dog? Visit our website – link in comments.

⁉️ Do you use chemical-free cleaners at home?
We’d love to hear your favourites or help you find some!

12/04/2025

Osteopathy: A Holistic Approach to Supporting Your Dog’s Mobility and Well-being

Canine osteopathy offers a unique, whole-body approach to musculoskeletal health that sets it apart from other therapies such as physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and massage.

Canine osteopathy is a gentle, hands-on therapy that complements veterinary care by addressing musculoskeletal imbalances and promoting overall wellness. It focuses on restoring movement, relieving tension, and supporting the body’s natural healing processes.

Benefits of Canine Osteopathy:
• Improves joint mobility and reduces stiffness
• Relieves muscle tension and postural imbalances
• Enhances circulation and lymphatic drainage
• Aids recovery from injury and prevents compensatory strain
• Manages chronic conditions like arthritis without relying solely on medication
• Supports nervous system function, improving coordination and reducing pain

Common Techniques:
• Functional movements to restore natural motion
• Gentle joint articulations to increase flexibility
• Ligament balancing for joint stability and comfort
• Pumping techniques to boost fluid flow and tissue health

Whether your dog is recovering from injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply needing support for healthy movement, canine osteopathy offers a holistic, non-invasive path to better health

I’m proud to have completed my Certificate in Canine Osteopathy. Integrating these advanced techniques into my practice has already begun to enhance the care and outcomes I can offer to my canine clients.

12/04/2025

It is uncommon for medications to become ineffective in dogs; however, because arthritis is a progressive disease, it may be necessary to adjust the treatment plan with additional medications to better manage your dog's symptoms.
🙏

12/04/2025

Sponsorship Opportunity for Canine Athletes

Are you the proud owner of a canine athlete?

We’re on the lookout for talented dogs involved in various athletic activities, including agility, bikejoring, conformation, dock diving, disc dog, flyball, heel work to music, mushing, obedience, skijoring, scent work,tracking. and working trials

What We Offer:
We are excited to sponsor 5 canine athletes who show exceptional skill and enthusiasm in their sport. By registering your interest by the end of April, you could take advantage of the following benefits:

- Comprehensive Treatments: Access to the best therapies for recovery and maintenance.
- Gait and Posture Analysis: Detailed assessments to enhance performance and prevent injuries.
- Canine Fitness and Conditioning Programs: Tailored fitness plans to keep your dog in peak condition.
- FREEBIES: Exciting goodies to reward your canine athlete and support their training!

How to Apply:
- Interested? Send us a message expressing your interest!
- Note: Previous applicants need not respond again.

We’re passionate about keeping your dog sporting fit and providing them with the tools they need to excel!

11/04/2025

Your dogs assessment at East Midlands Clinical Canine Massage & Rehabilitation Therapies

As part of your dog’s assessment, I include:-

✨ Palpation
This is a hands-on process where I assess areas of dysfunction in your dog’s body, including:
• Increased muscle tension and radiating myofascial pain
• Changes in muscle tone, texture, and the presence of trigger points, adhesions, or strains
• Areas of muscle asymmetry or atrophy
• Changes in coat texture or temperature
• Sensitivity or anxiety about specific areas when touched

✨ Joint Testing
During this part of the assessment, I will evaluate your dog’s joints, including:
• Range of motion
• Comfort throughout the range of motion
• End feel (normal vs abnormal—such as bony block, springy block, muscle spasm, capsular, or empty)
• Accessory joint movements

✨ Neurological Evaluation
I will also perform a basic neurological evaluation, including testing the cranial nerves, neuro gait analysis if pertinent to identify any underlying neurological dysfunctions.

✨ Pain Evaluation
Your dog’s pain experience is assessed using owner observation-based questionnaires and clinical veterinary pain measurement tools. This helps determine the level of discomfort and any hidden signs of pain.

✨ Postural, Functional Movement, and Gait Analysis
A detailed analysis of how your dog stands, moves, and walks to identify any imbalances or areas of concern. Including functional movement testing.

✨ Weight Management
I will assess your dog’s weight, record muscular measurements, and provide advice on body conditioning and weight management. This is key for maintaining optimal health and supporting rehabilitation.

✨Nutrtional Advice
I offer canine nutritional guidance to help you make informed choices for your dog’s health and well-being. From understanding ingredient labels to selecting appropriate diets for different life stages and disorders.

✨ Veterinary Report & Referrals
After the assessment, I will provide a comprehensive report for your vet and, if needed, refer you to other canine professionals to ensure the best care for your dog.

🙏 A huge thank you to all my new clients this week—you’ve made it extra special! I’m excited to help your dogs on their journey to better health and mobility.

10/04/2025

✨ Does Your Dog Need Rehabilitation?

Your dog may benefit from canine rehabilitation if they…
- Have experienced an accident, trauma, or injury that limits movement or causes pain
- Recently underwent surgery
- Participates in competitive activities or sports (e.g., agility, flyball, Canicross)
- Is showing signs of weakness in any area
- Is aging and experiencing degenerative changes, such as arthritis

✨ Rehabilitation Beyond Injury

Canine rehabilitation isn't solely focused on treating injuries. It also promotes a proactive approach to fitness and wellness, ensuring your dog remains active and healthy.

✨ What to Expect in a Rehabilitation Program

A comprehensive rehabilitation program may include:

- A customized at-home exercise routine tailored to your dog's specific needs
- Educational resources for dog owners
- Access to specialized equipment through loan programs
- Ongoing support and advice to guide you through the process
- Regular assessments to track progress and make necessary adjustments

✨ My Qualifications in Canine Rehabilitation.-

I hold several certifications and have completed extensive training in canine rehabilitation, including:

- Level 4 in Canine Rehabilitation (1 year)
- Level 3 in Small Animal Rehabilitation and Practice Development (9 months)
- Licensed Canine Conditioning Coach (9 months)
- Online Continuing Professional Development (CPD) courses covering:
- Hypermobility
- The rehab therapist's role in treating Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
- Management of canine neurological patients
- Nutrition in rehabilitation

✨ Meet Boris!
Here’s a photo of Boris as he embarks on his rehabilitation program to help manage his compensatory musculoskeletal dysfunctions following trauma to his tibial crest.

🤔 Interested in Learning More?
If you’d like to know more about rehabilitation or discuss how I can assist your dog, please don’t hesitate to reach out. My contact details are below. ⬇️

📧 [email protected]
📞 07418 082 240

10/04/2025

✨Forelimb LamenessGenerally, with forelimb lameness, weight is shifted caudally, (towards the back end) and the head goes “down on the sound” limb or, conversely, the head goes up when the lame limb is on the ground (although this observation has not been verified in dogs). In forelimb lameness, the hindlimbs may also appear tucked under and the back appear arched, and affected dogs may take short strides with the hindlimbs.