Should I stay or should I go.......

One thing to come out of the recent situation was the need to work 1:1 with dogs that still needed their hands on treatment, to manage pain and mobility.  1:1 isn't needed now in every situation but some of my clients (I don't like that word as most become friends) have chosen to continue to send their dogs in to the clinic without them.  They have noted that their dog settles better without them there and they benefit more from the session. 


Henry certainly doesn't mind his time in my room, just me and him.  He wanders in, has a little sniff, maybe a sneaky treat, and settles down on the mat. His session today was just beautiful and relaxed for both of us.  I openly admit its therapy for me too!

This isn't the case for every dog though.  Some can become anxious if mum or dad aren't around but settle well if they are just in the room so they can see them.  Every dog is different so each session is carried out to each dog's needs, mentally and physically. 



Even those that just don't settle can benefit.  I find with these dogs that they often fall asleep at home, allowing their body to continue to adapt to the changes instigated in the session.  Some over time realise what the session is about and start to settle more during the session.  I am looking to do sessions purely on reducing hyperactivity and relaxation (let me know if this is what you are looking for so we can focus the session on that goal).  Stress is known to be a factor in overall health, so finding ways to unwind is crucial to optimum health and longevity (for both us and our dogs!).

Because each dog is different, this is one of the reasons why I can't predict how well or how quickly a dog will respond.  Recently I had a little dog in, who was a little anxious yet after one session was reported to be "100% better".  Others due to their condition, we can only managing the situation, and we need to continue with regular maintenance sessions.  Although it is my ambition to "fix" everyone I know this is not possible but what I do know from experience is over time, be it one session or continuous sessions, it naturally reduces pain, improves mobility and improves quality of life.

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