FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions. Have a different question? Please contact me to ask.
Payment Information
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes! Feel free to email me and I can send you an electronic certificate for any denomination or for a specific session.
Do you offer refunds?
No, all sales are final
Do you accept tips?
Yes! But they are NEVER expected. Do not feel obliged to tip me. You may add gratuity to any credit card transaction, via Venmo, check or cash.
Do you have any cancellation fees?
I understand that things come up and emergencies happen. I request that if you need to cancel, you do so as soon as possible. Any cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled session will be charged the full cost of the session.
How do I pay you?
I accept all major credit cards via Square. I also accept Venmo, Zelle, Paypal, check, or cash. You will receive a receipt via email.
Do you take pet insurance?
Many pet insurance companies are covering alternative treatments and massage. Check in with your provider to see if they do. I’m always happy to confirm a session with the provider, send invoices, or receipts, but I request that you take care of any forms that need to be submitted for reimbursement.
Preparing for the Massage Session
What should I expect during the session?
The first session usually consists of a brief discussion with you about what you are hoping for, any specific problems you want addressed, and a little history about your dog. This gives her time to get used to me in their space and helps the session go a little more smoothly.
What should I have ready for the session?
Have her favorite bed or blanket ready and a spare one just in case.
Can I be present for the massage and ask questions?
Of course! For the first session, I always recommend pet parents to be present to help comfort and relax their dog. Sometimes, a dog will do better if you are in another room, but that is rare. If I think that your dog will be calmer without you in the room, I will ask you to step out. But again, this is rare.
Should my dog eat before the session?
I usually recommend that a dog not eat for about 90 minutes before a massage. Keep this in mind when you schedule or make sure to feed your dog a little early. Massage on an empty stomach and close to her usual feeding time can also be difficult because she is used to the routine and won’t be able to relax when all she can think about is dinner.
Should I walk my dog before the session?
If you normally walk her around the time of the session, go ahead and keep that routine. If you don’t, a gentle walk to go potty and get out any excess energy is a good idea.
Where is the best place to set up for the session?
Anywhere your dog usually hangs out. For most dogs, I do the entire session on the floor. This is where they are most comfortable. Occasionally I will use a massage table but I will always ask for her favorite bed or blanket to have her rest on. I can also massage on a bed or couch if that is where she is most comfortable. Also, a quiet area where there is little activity is best.
After the Massage Session
What can I expect after the massage?
I recommend that you have fresh water available for your dog to drink. Massage helps boost the immune system and drinking water can help facilitate this process. Some dogs are energized from massage and get the “zoomies” afterward. Some dogs are so relaxed they just sleep. Some dogs are hungry afterward, so having a few treats or a very small meal ready is a good idea. These are all normal responses.
How often should my dog have a massage?
If you’d like regular sessions, I recommend a set of 3 or 4 sessions scheduled every or every other week to start with. This gets your fur kid used to my touch and associates me with feeling great! After that, we can discuss how often is best for her.
Should I avoid any activity after the session?
That depends on your dog. If she wants to sleep, go ahead and let her sleep. I say a sleeping dog is a comfortable dog. But if she is energized afterward, a walk to get that out would probably be a good idea to protect your furniture.
My dog wasn’t that into the massage the first time, should I be worried about scheduling additional sessions?
No, many dogs are nervous about me being in their space and aren’t used to massage. As long as she wasn’t sore or painful afterward, I recommend giving it a few sessions to see if she gets into it. It’s been my experience that almost always by the third session, dogs get excited by my presence because they know I make them feel good.
General Information
How do I schedule a session with you?
Email is best. But I can also schedule sessions via text or phone call. Make sure to check out my hours page and my service area, then give me a couple times of day you are available and where you are located. I can reply with dates and times I’m able to get out to your area.
When is massage not ok?
Massage is not a good idea when she is VERY painful from a recent injury or surgery. Massage is also not ok if your fur kid is feeling ill (vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or cough). In cases like this, I will recommend you seek advice from your veterinarian before scheduling a massage and getting an OK from them to schedule. If she has an active skin infection, rash, or recent wound that required medical treatment, I will also generally recommend that we postpone scheduling until it’s healed or cleared up. If your dog is severely itchy due to uncontrolled allergies, I would recommend not scheduling until the allergy is under control. Touch can make the itching unbearable and she won’t be able to enjoy the session at all.
I am sensitive to fragrance, do you use any oils or lotions?
Dogs have a lot of excess skin over their musculoskeletal structure. So, unlike people, lotions and oils aren’t needed for massage. I can use lavender or a blend of essential oils on my hands if you like to help with relaxation, but it’s not necessary. Please make sure to list any allergies your pet has on the new client form.
Do you really have two Weimaraners?
Yes, I’m crazy enough to have two Weims. Dahlia is 7 and Zinnia is 3. You will likely see pictures of them throughout the website. Just look for the floppy grey ears!
Do you offer refunds?
No, all sales are final
Resources
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