Pepsi's Clinical Canine Massage

09/04/2025

Understanding Muscle Wastage in Dogs: A Deeper Look at the Anatomy

Muscle wastage, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when there is a decrease in the size and strength of muscle fibers in a dog’s body. This process can be caused by various factors like injury, illness, age, or inactivity. To better understand how muscle wastage affects our furry friends, let's dive into the anatomy of muscles in dogs and how massage can support their recovery.

Dog Muscle Anatomy:
Dogs, like humans, have a complex network of muscles that work together to help them move, maintain posture, and perform bodily functions.

Key muscle groups include:
• Skeletal Muscles – These muscles are attached to bones and are responsible for voluntary movements, like walking, running, and jumping. They’re the most likely to suffer from muscle wasting when a dog is inactive or injured.

• Smooth Muscles – Found in organs like the stomach and intestines, smooth muscles manage involuntary processes like digestion and circulation. While these are not directly affected by atrophy in the same way skeletal muscles are, their proper function is essential for overall health.

• Cardiac Muscle – This muscle controls the heart's function. While it doesn’t typically suffer from atrophy like skeletal muscles, general health and circulation can still be impacted by muscle issues elsewhere in the body.

How Muscle Wastage Occurs in Dogs:
When a dog experiences muscle atrophy, it typically begins in the skeletal muscles, the muscles responsible for voluntary movements.

The cause can be:
• Lack of movement due to injury or post-surgery recovery
• Chronic pain (like from arthritis or joint issues) that limits movement
• Neurological conditions affecting the brain or spinal cord, which control muscle movement
• Nutritional deficiencies or general weakness due to illness or aging

Without proper use and activity, muscle fibers begin to shrink. This leads to weakness, loss of coordination, and diminished strength in the affected limbs or body parts. In severe cases, it can severely limit a dog’s ability to walk, run, or engage in normal activities.

How Massage Helps Combat Muscle Wastage:
Massage therapy can be an essential part of managing muscle atrophy in dogs.

Here’s how:
• Increased Circulation
Massage promotes better blood flow, which is crucial for muscle health. Proper circulation ensures that muscles receive oxygen and nutrients while also helping to remove metabolic waste products, which aids in muscle recovery.

• Stimulating Muscle Fibers
Massage can stimulate dormant or weakened muscle fibers, encouraging them to activate. This helps to prevent further atrophy and may promote muscle rebuilding, particularly in dogs recovering from surgery or injury. Light pressure and kneading can help ‘wake up’ muscles that have been underused.

• Alleviating Tension & Stiffness
Muscle stiffness and tension often accompany atrophy. Regular massage can help reduce tightness, enhance flexibility, and relieve discomfort by improving the overall tone of the muscle. This is particularly helpful for dogs suffering from arthritis or degenerative joint diseases.

• Reducing Pain
Massage helps release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, which can help reduce discomfort caused by muscle atrophy. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with chronic conditions like hip dysplasia or those recovering from surgery.

• Promoting Relaxation & Reducing Stress
Pain and discomfort often lead to stress in dogs, which can exacerbate muscle tightness and further impede recovery. Massage helps your dog relax, improving both mental and physical well-being, and lowering overall stress levels.

• Preventing Muscle Imbalance
In cases of muscle wastage, one side of the body can become weaker than the other, creating a muscle imbalance. Regular massage on both sides of the body helps maintain balance and symmetry, reducing the risk of additional strain on healthier muscles.

When to Use Massage:
• Post-Surgery Recovery: After an operation, especially those affecting the musculoskeletal system (e.g., joint surgeries), massage can aid healing by encouraging circulation and reducing scarring or stiffness.

• Chronic Pain: Dogs with conditions like arthritis, hip dysplasia, or spinal issues often experience muscle wastage as they move less to avoid pain. Gentle massage helps relax tight muscles and can be used alongside other treatments.

• Elderly Dogs: As dogs age, they naturally lose muscle mass. Regular massage can slow the progression of muscle atrophy, maintain mobility, and help older dogs stay more active.

• Inactive or Injured Dogs: For dogs recovering from injury or those that have had to limit their activity levels, massage therapy can keep the muscles from becoming weaker and help them regain strength.

Massage Techniques:
• Effleurage (Light Strokes): Long, gentle strokes that increase blood flow and soothe muscles.
• Petrissage (Kneading): A deeper technique to work on tight muscles and release tension.
• Friction: Small circular motions that help with stiff areas, promoting flexibility.
• Tapping: Light taps to stimulate circulation and wake up muscles.

Consulting a Professional:
While at-home massage can provide benefits, it’s important to consult with a veterinarian or a professional canine massage therapist to ensure proper techniques and avoid aggravating any underlying issues. They can guide you on how to tailor the massage routine to your dog’s specific condition.

Muscle wastage in dogs can be a frustrating and painful experience, but with proper care, including massage therapy, you can help your dog regain strength, mobility, and comfort. Keeping your dog active, providing them with a balanced diet, and integrating massage into their routine can make a world of difference in their recovery and overall well-being.

Do you think your dog could benefit from a massage? 🐾



Picture of our old lad, one in his prime and one clearly demonstrating muscle wastage

05/04/2025

🐶 What’s Your Favorite Dog Breed? 🐶

I have to say, bull breeds have my heart! ❤️ Sure, they can be stubborn at times (okay, maybe a lot 😆), but they’re also the gentlest, most loving souls ever. 🐾

A close second for me has to be Labradors, so innocent, easygoing, and way easier to train than the bull breeds! 🦴🐕

What about you? Drop your favorite breed in the comments and tell me why you love them! ⬇️🐶✨

Pictur of my partner in crime (shhhh, don't tell the others 😜)

03/04/2025

02/04/2025

Understanding Arthritis in Dogs: How Canine Massage Therapy Can Help

Arthritis is a common yet painful condition that affects many dogs, particularly as they age. Just like in humans, arthritis in dogs is caused by the gradual breakdown of cartilage in the joints, leading to inflammation, stiffness, and discomfort. While arthritis can develop from age, genetics, or past injuries, it significantly impacts a dog’s mobility and overall quality of life.

The Anatomy of Arthritis in Dogs

The joints of a healthy dog are cushioned by cartilage and lubricated with synovial fluid, allowing smooth movement. In arthritic joints, this cartilage wears down, causing friction between the bones.

This leads to:
• Pain and stiffness
• Swelling and inflammation
• Reduced range of motion
• Muscle loss due to inactivity

Common areas affected include the hips, elbows, knees, and spine. Large breeds, overweight dogs, and those with previous joint injuries are particularly prone to developing arthritis.

Managing Arthritis Through Clinical Canine Massage Therapy

One effective way to help manage arthritis pain and stiffness in dogs is through clinical canine massage therapy. This is not just a luxury treatment but a professional approach that focuses on pain relief, mobility improvement, and muscle support.

How Canine Massage Helps:

✔ Reduces Pain & Stiffness – Massage increases circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the joints and muscles, which helps reduce inflammation.
✔ Improves Mobility – By easing tight muscles and increasing flexibility, massage helps dogs move more comfortably.
✔ Supports Muscle Function – Dogs with arthritis often shift their weight to compensate for pain, leading to muscle imbalances. Massage can help prevent muscle wastage.
✔ Boosts Endorphins – Just like in humans, massage releases natural pain-relieving hormones that can enhance a dog’s mood and well-being.

What to Expect from a Professional Canine Massage Therapist

A fully trained Clinical Canine Massage Therapist will use specialised techniques such as:
• Effleurage – Gentle stroking to warm up the tissues and promote relaxation.
• Petrissage – Kneading movements to reduce muscle tension.
• Myofascial Release – Stretching techniques that improve flexibility and relieve tightness.

Sessions are tailored to each dog’s specific needs, ensuring a safe and effective approach to arthritis management. As we've previously covered, ensuring that your therapist is professionally trained is crucial.

Combining Massage with Other Therapies

While canine massage is highly beneficial, it works best when combined with other treatments, such as:
✅ Veterinary-prescribed medications or supplements such as glucosamine, omega-3s etc.... did you know tinned sardines is just as good as the omega 3 tabs in my opinion (my dogs love it as a tasty treat)
✅ Hydrotherapy (swimming or underwater treadmill exercises)
✅ Weight management and a balanced diet
✅ Supportive bedding and warm environments to ease joint pain (see previous posts about the importance of good beds for dogs)

If your dog is showing signs of arthritis, limping, struggling to get up, or avoiding exercise, consider seeking the help of a professional Clinical Canine Massage Therapist. This therapy can be a natural, hands-on way to enhance your dog’s comfort, mobility, and happiness.



(Picture shows the areas on a dog where they may experience arthritis)

01/04/2025

🎊 Happy Heavenly Birthday, Pepsi & Mitzi 🎊

Today, we celebrate the birthdays of my two beautiful girls, Pepsi and Mitzi. 🧡🧡 Though both of you are no longer here, your love, energy, and memories live on in my heart every single day. Pepsi, your name carries on through my business, a reminder of the joy and love you brought into my life. And Mitzi, losing you has been so hard, it was too soon after the loss of your sister, but I find comfort knowing you’re reunited with her. You came into this world together and you left within one month of each other.

Recently, a very special dog has come to stay with us for a little while, one who reminds me so much of you, Mitzi. It’s as if a little piece of you has found its way back to me, and it warms my heart in ways I can’t explain.

Happy heavenly birthday, my sweet girls. Love and miss you both always.

30/03/2025

Happy Mother’s Day to all the incredible mums out there, whether your little one has two legs or four! ❤️🐶

To the dog mums who give belly rubs, go on endless walks, and always have treats on hand, your love is unconditional, and your pup is so lucky to have you!

And to all the amazing mums, biological, adoptive, foster, step, in-law, and pet mums, today is for YOU. Your love, care, and devotion make the world a better place.

Tag a mum who deserves extra love today! 💕🐾

29/03/2025

It’s always a heart-stopping moment when you hear your dog scream, setting off those internal alarm bells. You’ve all seen pictures of my girl Ivy, my energetic, crazy, loon of a dog. Well, the other week, she decided it would be a brilliant idea to jump a nearly five-foot wall, not once, but twice! At the time, she looked incredibly pleased with herself as she ran back around to the gate of my back garden.

Fast forward a week, and she had been playing and carrying on as normal. Then, out of nowhere, I suddenly heard a scream. Initially, I thought the pup had grabbed her by the chops again or pinched her underarm (she’s only 12 weeks old, so she’s still figuring out how far she can push the rest of the pack). But no, this time, it wasn’t the pup’s fault.

My mind instantly went back to that time she jumped that damn wall. As a canine massage therapist, I had my husband hold Ivy, just as I would instruct any owner to do if their dog was being a bit wiggly (or in Ivy’s case… a lot wiggly). I was convinced the issue was in her back before I even started, but after a full muscle health check, the assessment revealed she had an injury to her rhomboid muscle.

What is the Rhomboid Muscle?
The rhomboid muscle is located in the upper back, connecting the shoulder blades to the spine. In dogs, it plays a key role in stabilising and moving the shoulders. When a dog jumps down from a high place, the rhomboid muscle is heavily engaged to help control the landing. However, if the impact is too great, like Ivy’s repeated five-foot leaps, it can strain or overstretch the muscle, leading to pain, stiffness, and potential inflammation.

For Ivy, it’s now a period of rest with restricted walks, which means no ball (she’s going to be devastated). Limited play, some Metacam if needed, and a course of massage therapy to ease tension and promote healing. Hopefully, with the right care, she’ll be back to her usual energetic self soon!

Lesson learned—no more wall-jumping, Ivy!

29/03/2025

Understanding IVDD in Dogs & How Massage Therapy Can Help

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is a painful and often debilitating spinal condition that affects many dogs, particularly breeds with long backs like Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Corgis. It occurs when the discs that cushion the vertebrae in the spine degenerate, herniate, or rupture, leading to compression of the spinal cord and nerves.

The Anatomy of IVDD.

The spine is made up of vertebrae, which are separated by intervertebral discs. These discs act as shock absorbers, providing flexibility and protection for the spine.

They consist of two main parts:

• Annulus Fibrosus – The tough outer layer that keeps the disc intact.
• Nucleus Pulposus – The soft, gel-like inner core that provides cushioning.

In IVDD, the disc deteriorates, causing either:

• Type I IVDD – A sudden rupture of the disc, often seen in chondrodystrophic breeds (those with shorter legs and longer backs).
• Type II IVDD – A slower, progressive degeneration leading to compression, more common in larger breeds.

Symptoms can range from mild pain and stiffness to paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the affected disc.

How Massage Therapy Can Help.

While IVDD often requires medical intervention, including anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, or even surgery in severe cases, massage therapy from a trained specialist can play a crucial role in managing pain and improving mobility.

Here’s how:

✔ Pain Relief & Relaxation – Gentle, controlled massage techniques help stimulate circulation, reduce muscle spasms, and promote relaxation, easing tension caused by compensatory movements.
✔ Improved Blood Flow – Increased circulation delivers oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues, aiding in the healing process.
✔ Reduced Muscle Stiffness & Spasms – Dogs with IVDD often develop stiffness in surrounding muscles due to lack of movement. Massage can help loosen these tight areas, improving flexibility and comfort.
✔ Enhanced Nervous System Function – By stimulating nerves and promoting relaxation, massage can support better communication between the brain and muscles, potentially improving coordination.
✔ Emotional & Mental Well-being – Pain and mobility issues can cause anxiety in dogs. Regular massage therapy can help reduce stress, providing comfort and promoting a sense of well-being.

Why a Trained Specialist is Essential.

Since IVDD affects the spine, it’s crucial that massage therapy is performed by a certified canine massage therapist or rehabilitation specialist who understands spinal anatomy and proper techniques. The wrong pressure or movement could worsen the condition rather than help. A professional will customise therapy to suit your dog’s needs, ensuring safe and effective relief.

If your dog has been diagnosed with IVDD, talk to your vet about incorporating massage therapy into their recovery plan. When done correctly, it can be a valuable tool in enhancing mobility, reducing pain, and improving overall quality of life for your furry companion.

Has your dog experienced IVDD? Share your journey and what has helped them the most!

(Picture used from PDSA site)

26/03/2025

Is Your Dog Experiencing Stiffness or Discomfort? It Could Be Fascia Adhesions! 🐾

Did you know your dog’s fascia, the connective tissue surrounding muscles, bones, and organs, plays a crucial role in mobility and comfort? When fascia becomes tight or stuck (adhesions), it can lead to stiffness, reduced movement, and even discomfort.

🧬 What is Fascia Made Of?

Fascia is a web-like structure made primarily of:

🔹 Collagen – Provides strength and support
🔹 Elastin – Allows for flexibility and movement
🔹 Ground Substance – A gel-like fluid that keeps fascia hydrated and mobile

🧠 The Sensory Network Inside Fascia
Fascia isn’t just structural it’s also rich in sensory nerves such as

🔹 Proprioceptive - senses your dogs position (body awareness)
🔹 Interoceptive senses your dogs internal state
🔹️Nociceptive - Senses discomfort and pain
🔹 Ruffini Endings – Sense slow, sustained pressure and stretching

When fascia becomes tight or restricted, these sensory nerves can become overstimulated, leading to stiffness, restricted movement, and postural imbalances in your dog.

💆‍♂️ What is Myofascial Release Massage?

Myofascial Release (MFR) is a specialised hands-on therapy that gently stretches and releases restrictions in the fascia. This helps improve flexibility, restore movement, and enhance overall well-being.

⚠️ Why Should It Only Be Done by a Trained Professional?

MFR requires an in-depth understanding of canine anatomy to ensure it’s done safely and effectively. Improper techniques can overstimulate sensory nerves, cause discomfort, or worsen existing restrictions. Always consult a certified clinical canine massage therapist for fascia-related issues.

💡 How to Help Your Dog:

🩹 Gentle massage & myofascial release (by a professional!)
🏃‍♂️ Proper warm-ups before exercise
🩺 Consulting a trained therapist for bodywork

Your pup deserves to move freely and feel great! 🐕💙 If you notice any of these signs, consider fascia-focused therapies to improve their comfort & quality of life.

🐾

(Picture courtesy of dogs naturally site)

22/03/2025

🦴 Soft Tissue Injuries in Dogs: More Serious Than You Think! 🦴

Your pup might look fine on the outside, but soft tissue injuries, like sprains, strains, and ligament tears, can cause chronic pain, lameness, and even long-term mobility issues if left untreated.

🚨 Signs to Watch For:

✔️ Limping or difficulty standing
✔️ Swelling or tenderness
✔️ Reluctance to run, jump, or play
✔️ Whimpering or licking a specific area
✔️ Behaviour Changes

💡 What to Do:

🐾 Rest & Restricted Movement – No zoomies for now!
🐾 Vet Check-Up / Muscular Health check from Canine Massage Therapist  – Early diagnosis prevents complications.
🐾 Cold/Heat Therapy – Helps reduce pain & inflammation.
🐾 Professional Clinical Canine Massage Therapy – Strengthens recovery.

Ignoring soft tissue injuries can turn a minor strain into lifelong pain for your furry friend.

🐶❤️ Keep them happy, healthy, and moving pain-free!

📸 Tag a fellow pet parent who needs to see this! 🐕⬇️

10/03/2025

🐾 “What if my dog won’t settle for a massage?” 🐾

First off, sorry for the quietness! It’s been all systems puppy lately after taking in a foster pup. 🐶💨 Life has been a whirlwind of zoomies, training, snuggles, and lots of patience!

Now, back to a common question I get: What if my dog won’t settle for a massage?

I totally get it! Some dogs take time to relax, and that’s perfectly fine. I work with your dog at their own pace, using gentle techniques to help them ease into a massage.

💆‍♂️ Soothing strokes to build trust
🐕 Allowing movement, some dogs need to sniff & explore first!
🌿 Special massage tricks to encourage calmness

By the end, even the most restless pups are feeling zen mode activated. 🧘‍♂️🐾

Curious about canine massage? Drop me a message, I’d love to chat! 💕

14/02/2025

Happy Valentine’s Day! ❤️🐾

Today is all about love, and who loves us more unconditionally than our four-legged best friends? 💕🐶

Wishing you and your pups a day filled with snuggles, wagging tails, and endless joy! 🐾💘

13/02/2025

Lets talk Luxating Patella in Dogs 🐾

What is it?

The patella, or "kneecap," normally sits in a groove at the end of the femur. In dogs with a luxating patella, the kneecap moves out of its groove (dislocates), often causing discomfort and difficulty walking.

This condition is common in small breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkies but not limited to.

You can have in one knee or both and will be graded from 1-4, from grade 3 to 4 being the worse side of the scale and surgery will probably be recommended at this stage.

🩻 Key Anatomy Affected:

1️⃣ Patella (Kneecap): Moves abnormally.
2️⃣ Femoral Groove: The groove is too shallow in affected dogs.
3️⃣ Quadriceps Muscles: Misalignment puts strain on these muscles.
4️⃣ Tendons & Ligaments: Stretched or weakened by the displacement.

Signs to Watch For:

• Intermittent skipping gait 🐕
• Lameness or difficulty bearing weight
• "Hopping" on one leg

💆‍♀️ How Massage Can Help:

Massage therapy can be an effective, non-invasive tool for managing luxating patella.

✨ Improves Muscle Support: Massaging the quadriceps, hamstrings, and surrounding muscles can reduce tension and strengthen the area.
✨ Promotes Circulation: Encourages blood flow, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
✨ Relieves Pain: Gentle manipulation eases discomfort and stiffness.
✨ Prevents Compensation: Keeps other muscles from overcompensating and becoming strained.

What causes it?

1️⃣ Joint Stress: Repeated jumping places significant strain on a puppy's developing joints, particularly the knees. Over time, this can weaken ligaments and destabilise the patella. (This is what happened to Louie in his previous home, think of how a kangaroo jumps and you've got the exact idea of what this dog used to do. He now has luxating patellas in both knees. This is managed by regular massages and inflammatory medication)

2️⃣ Misalignment Risk: Puppies are still growing, and their bones and joints are not fully developed. Excessive jumping can cause improper alignment of the femur, tibia, or kneecap.

3️⃣ Ligament and Tendon Damage: High-impact activities, like jumping on hard surfaces, can stretch or tear the ligaments that keep the patella in place, making it more likely to slip.

4️⃣ Pre-existing Genetics: If a dog is genetically predisposed to luxating patella (common in small breeds), frequent jumping can accelerate the onset or severity of the condition.

Prevention Tips for Puppies:

• Limit Jumping: Avoid encouraging jumping from high places (like furniture) or repeated high-impact activities.
• Provide Support: Use ramps or steps for beds, couches, and cars to reduce strain on the joints.
• Balanced Exercise: Focus on low-impact activities, such as walking or swimming, to strengthen muscles without stressing the knees.
• Diet and Weight Management: Excess weight puts additional strain on joints, so a balanced diet is essential.

While jumping alone may not directly cause luxating patella, it can be a contributing factor, especially in puppies with growing joints or those predisposed to the condition.

If you suspect your dog may have luxating patella, please book appointment with your vet for investigations. If you wish to explore massage therapy as a treatment option, then please do drop me a message.



Picture as diagrammed on PDSA website.

03/02/2025

💕 Love Is in the Air – One-Day-Only Special!

Treat your furry friend to a Swedish Massage Therapy Session and show them just how much you care! 🐶💆‍♂️

📅 Only available on Saturday, 15th February

🏡 30-minute session in your own home

💰 Just £20!

Spreading the love from Pepsi’s Clinical Canine Massage – book now and give your pup the relaxation they deserve! ❤️

📞 Limited slots available – book today.

01/02/2025

🦴 What Is Hip Dysplasia in Dogs? How Massage Can Help 🐾

Hip dysplasia occurs when the ball and socket joint of the hip doesn’t fit together properly. Instead of gliding smoothly, the joint grinds, causing instability, pain, and arthritis over time.

As the condition progresses, bone spurs (osteophytes) may develop around the joint edges as the body tries to stabilise the loose joint and secondary osteoarthritis may also be seen. (This part is exactly what Pepsi's sister had).

This misalignment can lead to:

➡️ Altered Gait: Dogs may limp or "bunny hop" to compensate for discomfort.

➡️ Muscle Imbalances: The surrounding muscles, especially the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back, work overtime to stabilise the joint.

➡️ Reduced Range of Motion: Stiffness and pain limit movement, impacting your dog’s quality of life.

💡 How Can Massage Help?

Massage therapy addresses the secondary effects of hip dysplasia by focusing on the muscles and tissues that are impacted:

🔸 Releases Tension: Chronic muscle tightness (especially in the lower back and rear legs) is common in dogs with hip dysplasia. Massage helps relax these overworked areas.

🔸 Enhances Flexibility: Loosening tight soft tissues around the hips promotes better movement in stiff joints.

🔸 Encourages Lymphatic Flow: Reduces inflammation and helps flush toxins from the affected area.

🔸 Supports Postural Alignment: Regular massage can reduce compensatory strain on the spine and opposite limbs.

While massage doesn’t cure the anatomical issues of hip dysplasia, it’s a powerful tool to improve comfort, manage pain, and help your dog move more freely.



(Excillent picture shows the difference between a normal hip joint compared to one with hip dysplasia. Image taken from James Landing Veterinary hospital page)

29/01/2025

Is your furry friend feeling a little stiff, struggling with mobility, showing signs of discomfort or just needs a relaxing session? Don’t forget, I’m here to help!

As a fully trained and certified practitioner, I offer tailored canine massage treatments that can:
✔️ Relieve muscular pain
✔️ Improve movement and flexibility
✔️ Promote relaxation and overall wellbeing
✔️ And much more...

📍 I’m based in Cornwall and open to new clients!

Hosting a dog-friendly event? I’d love to collaborate, health checks and advice are just a message away.

Let’s keep our dogs happy, healthy, and wagging their tails! 🐶

📩 Feel free to get in touch to book or learn more.