Relaxation Massage

Relaxation massage is a session that is specific to stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system. With light, slow strokes throughout the body paying extra attention to just below the occipital bone at the base of the skull where the brain stem meets the spinal cord as well as at the base of the tail where the spinal cord ends. By stimulating the PNS, relaxation occurs. This is the part of the ANS (autonomic nervous system) that responds to creating or requiring relaxation such as sleep and digestion. I like to refer to it as the rest and digest session. Massage can greatly influence and induce relaxation.

On the opposing side of the ANS is the animal's sympathetic nervous system which is responsible for fight or flight response. This part of the nervous system responds to stressors. Stimmulating strokes around the thoracic region of the spine are great for warming up for performance events such as agility.

Relaxation massages generally last between 15 and 20 minutes and can be given daily. All pets benefit from these techniques but pets that are anxious, aggressive, depressed, super hyper, or those that are healing from an injury or sickness greatly benefit from regular PSNS stimulation.

There are many techniques that I look forward to teaching you to use at home.

Relaxation massages are only available in drop in visits and in the Spa.
This session is offered during drop-in services and at the Spa only.