I have started to study Dog Massage

I have been taking my dogs to massage irregularly and have seen good results. Their muscles have become more flexible and their movements have become freer. I have been fascinated by massage for a long time and years ago I took a dog massage course at the Workers’ College, where I was taught how to massage my own dog. However, over the years the lessons were forgotten, and the practice was not very regular in the first place. However, about a year and a half ago, when Dana’s problems at dog shows started, I took her to a massage therapist a couple of times. This gave me the spark to think, what if I became a dog massage therapist and could keep my own dogs in good shape all the time!

At first the thought seemed crazy, I had just finished a hard job last summer, getting my Bachelor of Business Administrations degree while working. It’s crazy to start studying a whole new field right after that! However, the idea stuck in my mind.

I started to see advertisements for a dog massage therapist training program starting in Kannus, which would lead to a professional qualification. To be admitted to the program, you had to have a basic qualification in animal care or equivalent knowledge. I asked if my lifelong experience with dogs, over 20 years of experience in dog breeding and working as a groomer, would be considered equivalent knowledge. Well, it was enough, so nothing really prevented me. At that point I still had a difficult situation at work, so I didn’t dare to make a decision yet. When it became clear to me that there was going to be relief from work, it felt like now or never.

So I applied and soon found out that I had been accepted to the program. The first face-to-face days were in January and now I have already completed three modules. We were already able to start taking on clients as our first apprenticeship assignments after the first module. I have already started taking clients and have had the opportunity to massage some dogs in addition to my own. It is really interesting to massage different dogs and I learn a lot from each massage session! Sometimes it is difficult to remember all the things to go through with the owner and I still have to practice writing client reports. Remembering the muscles, bones and joints of the dog in Finnish and Latin also presents a challenge. But that’s why I’m going to school, no one can be perfect right away! However, I have noticed that dog massage is a really nice counterbalance to my daytime work.

I have already opened a page on this website where I will add dog massage appointments available for booking. It has not been translated into English, because for the time being I only do treatments in Finland. Of course, I am also open to the possibility of going abroad. Appointments are usually booked very quickly, so if you have an acute need, it is best to inquire about appointments by phone or email.