Posted on March 16th, 2023

As a certified small animal massage practitioner and the owner of PAWSitive Animal Massage, I've witnessed the incredible healing powers of rehabilitation massage for pets recovering from surgery. In this blog post, I'll explain the benefits of rehabilitation massage for post-surgery recovery and share some tips on how to care for your pet during this crucial period.

Understanding Rehabilitation Massage

Rehabilitation massage is a specialized form of animal massage therapy that focuses on aiding the healing process after injury, illness, or surgery. It involves using various massage techniques to stimulate the body's immune response, encourage healing, and provide comfort. By working in sync with your veterinarian and other care team members, I can develop a tailored rehabilitation massage plan to support your pet's recovery.

Benefits of Rehabilitation Massage for Post-Surgery Recovery

1. Pain relief: Massage helps release endorphins, which are natural painkillers, and reduces inflammation. This can be especially helpful for pets recovering from surgery, as it can alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the healing process.
2. Reduced swelling: Massage can help improve circulation and stimulate the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing waste and toxins from the body. This can lead to a reduction in swelling and inflammation around the surgical site.
3. Improved mobility: Gentle stretching and massage can help maintain or improve your pet's range of motion after surgery. This can be particularly beneficial for pets recovering from orthopedic procedures.
4. Faster healing: By increasing blood flow to the affected area, massage can promote the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the tissues, speeding up the healing process.
5. Reduced scar tissue formation: Massage can help break down adhesions and promote the formation of healthy scar tissue, which is crucial for proper healing.
6. Emotional support: Pets can experience anxiety and stress following surgery. Massage can provide a soothing and calming effect, helping your pet feel more relaxed and comfortable during their recovery.

Tips for Post-Surgery Pet Care

1. Follow your veterinarian's instructions: Always adhere to your veterinarian's guidelines for post-surgery care, including medication administration, wound care, and activity restrictions.
2. Provide a comfortable environment: Ensure your pet has a comfortable and safe space to rest during their recovery. This may involve providing additional bedding, pillows, or blankets to support their body.
3. Monitor your pet's progress: Keep a close eye on your pet's surgical site for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge. If you notice any changes, contact your veterinarian immediately.
4. Be patient: Recovery can be a slow process, and it's essential to be patient with your pet during this time. Encourage them to rest and avoid pushing them to do more than they're capable of.
5. Seek professional help when needed: If you're unsure about any aspect of your pet's recovery or feel they may benefit from additional support, consult with your veterinarian or a professional small animal massage practitioner like myself.

Why Choose PAWSitive Animal Massage for Your Pet's Rehabilitation

At PAWSitive Animal Massage, I specialize in providing compassionate and effective rehabilitation massage therapy for pets in Longview and the surrounding areas. Here's why you should consider PAWSitive Animal Massage for your pet's post-surgery recovery:

1. Expertise: With my certification as a small animal massage practitioner, I have the knowledge and skills necessary to provide customized rehabilitation massage therapy for your pet.
2. Collaboration with your care team: I can work closely with your veterinarian and other care team members to ensure your pet receives the best possible support during their recovery.
3. Convenient, in-home sessions: I understand that traveling to a clinic can be stressful for your pet during their recovery, which is why I offer in-home sessions to provide the utmost comfort and convenience for your pet.
4. Compassionate care: As an animal lover and dedicated professional, my top priority is to ensure your pet receives the gentle, caring treatment they deserve throughout their recovery process.
5. Customized plans: Every pet's recovery journey is unique, and I tailor my rehabilitation massage plans to address your pet's specific needs and circumstances.

Rehabilitation massage is a powerful tool in supporting your pet's recovery after surgery. With its numerous benefits, such as pain relief, reduced swelling, and improved mobility, it can significantly contribute to a faster and smoother healing process.

If your pet is recovering from surgery and you believe they could benefit from rehabilitation massage, I invite you to reach out to me at PAWSitive Animal Massage. As the first small animal massage practitioner in our community, I am passionate about helping animals heal and live their best lives. Please feel free to contact me at (360) 560-8756 or via email at [email protected] to discuss how I can support your pet's post-surgery recovery. Together, we can help your furry friend get back on their paws and enjoy a happy, healthy life.