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UP CLOSE ’N
PERSONAL
(Nose-To-Toes is a
totally advertiser-supported publication. It is important that
our readers know about our advertisers and why they are
dedicated to providing quality products and services for your
pets. We invite you to get to know Jennifer Streit of Hands
to Paws Small Animal Massage.)
Nothing is more calming than a wonderful
massage. It’s a time to relax with a soothing rub to help with
your sore muscles. Why should humans be the only ones to be
comforted in this way? In fact, animals can also benefit by a
professional massage.
Jennifer Streit knows how a quality massage
can help humans, so why not help animals as well. She is a
licensed massage therapist, then continued with training devoted
specifically to animal massage. She is now certified in animal
massage, and owns Hands to Paws Small Animal Massage. Jennifer
is quick to explain that “small” only means no hoofed animals.
Her patients range from a Chihuahua to brother and sister
Mastiffs, weighing 168 and 180 pounds!
Washington State is one of just a few states
that require an animal massage therapist to be certified and
licensed. State law requires completion of 100 hours of training
in either large or small animal massage. “Training must include
animal massage techniques, kinesiology, anatomy, physiology,
first aid care, and proper handling techniques.” (RCW
18.108.230)
“I know how massage therapy can help,”
Jennifer explains. “In 2005, I inherited a client’s Dachshund
who had been seriously injured and needed surgery. After the
surgery, the prognosis was that he was unlikely to walk again.
We treated him with hydro-therapy and massage. That was when I
decided to change careers and devote my energies to helping
animals, mostly cats and dogs. He’s 14 now and doing very well.”
So, why massage therapy? Why hydro-therapy?
Jennifer explains that there is no pressure in the water and
rehabilitative massage is less painful for the animal. But
massage is not just for the injured or hurting. It is also
wonderful for any animal to help increase their circulation and
flexibility and to tone their muscles. Massage also helps loosen
stiff and arthritic joints, as well as to calm the animals.
Do all animals enjoy therapy? Almost all of
them, Jennifer said. “Often, the first massage is a little
strange for the animal because they are not sure what’s going
on. Very soon, though, they relax and you can tell they are
thoroughly enjoying the gentle strokes. When the massage is
complete, most don’t want me to stop. They keep rubbing against
me, almost begging for just a few more minutes.” Massage therapy
is even used for performance show dogs. “It helps to loosen
muscles to help avoid injuries during competition. You then give
them a massage to help them cool down,” she explained. Although
it certainly helps sore, stiff, or recovering animals, there
does not have to be a physical reason to get a massage for your
pet. It can be just to give them a wonderful treat, to help them
feel better, and to stimulate their day. Hands to Paws Small
Animal Massage and Jennifer Streit know how to make a difference
in your pet’s life.
By the way, Jennifer also has a dog-sitting
business. Lucky dogs!
For more information
about Hands to Paws Small Animal Massage, or to contact
Jennifer Streit, please click
here.
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