Information about me: I am an experienced, and double-certified Canine Massage Therapist (CCMT). I received my professional training from the PetMassage™ Training & Research Institute in Toledo, Ohio. I am also a member of the International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork (IAAMB). My intention, focus and scope of practice is in teaching basic massage techniques, which are gentle and effective, to dog guardians so that they can massage their own dogs. I am currently registered at the PetMassage™ Institute for the Fall 2008 WaterWorks Workshop, a new workshop focusing on water therapy, so I will once again, return to Ohio for additional training.

I believe that pet guardians are demanding more holistic forms of wellness care. Massage, as the cornerstone of hands-on holistic care, helps them maintain pet wellness (mental, physical & emotional), recover from traumas, and transition more easily from this life plane to the next. More and more, Veterinarians see the value of massage and incorporate qualified animal massage practitioners in their pre and post surgical rehabilitation programs. Veterinarians have recommended me to their clients for just such procedures many times.

Information about what I teach: Although I do not teach deep tissue work or extremes of joint movement, I do work with students and their dogs to assist them in developing skills of understanding the special needs of their dog, and supporting the self-healing of these special needs through the use of knowledgeable compassionate touch, positional release, acupressure, energy balancing and the release of spasms in the fascia (connective tissue). I advise students that I do not diagnose or treat specific diseases, nor will I recommend medications or special diets for their dogs. I teach students how to “assist” their dogs in its own self-healing, and if I believe it is necessary, I may recommend an Animal Chiropractor, Acupuncturist, or a specific Veterinarian. I am also a distributor for Bach Flower Essences, of which I highly recommend “Rescue® Remedy as a natural remedy for everyday stress, for your dog and even for you. It has been proven to be as helpful with animals as it is with humans; adults as well as infants and children.