By Sue Nielsen, MD
During a session with a local animal communicator, she hinted that Rico, my 4lb Long-haired Chihuahua, had some tension in his neck and might benefit from a massage. We were referred to Jenifer Funk, the owner of Abundant Life Massage.
I was happy to discover many pet parents bring their dogs in for this service, and it’s a growing business. Jenifer personally invited Rico to be a teaching model in a class to help a canine massage therapist in training learn her craft.
The studio was tucked into a quiet corner off Orange Avenue in downtown Sarasota. Arriving to the door, we found clear indications that dog lovers are welcome here, with a cute puppy statue poised at the entrance. 
As Rico and I walked calmly into the main room, we found two nervous large dogs impatiently waiting for class to begin. Rico’s demeanor changed from curious to a bit anxious. After a brief chat with the instructor and therapy student, with a review of Rico’s medical history and any concerns, we quickly got down to the art of massage.
The therapist had to use a few different techniques to calm Rico, but soon his little body slowly relaxed and his eyes softened. He enjoyed the neck massage in particular.
The other dogs were calming down as well. While I watched, I was able to pick up some tips about how and where to touch him. As you may remember, Rico loves dog agility! After an agility class or even a play date at the dog park, he really seems to appreciate the relaxing touch of massage, whether it was light touch or deeper muscle work. Why should it be any different from how we feel with healing touch? Next time we go, I will indulge Rico for a private session and get the full experience of this wonderful service. (During a private, no other dogs are in the room with you.)
We give a TWO PAWS UP for Abundant Life Canine massage. In addition to private sessions, they offer side by side human and canine massage. Dogs can be treated for specific ailments such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, or other orthopedic injuries. The healing touch can be used to calm anxiety as well. Great idea for a birthday gift to your dog loving friends or your dog friends. Of course, traditional human massages are always available too!
Abundant Life Massage “is proud to be one of the only training programs in the nation that offers a hands-on…Canine Massage Therapy Certification program designed by a licensed educator/massage therapist.”