PICTURES: Mmm, that feels good…Canine care

Mrs James works on Wimbers’hamstrings and glutes in his back legs

FOR anyone with aches or pains, a spot of massage can be just the thing – but getting such assistance is much less straightforward if you happen to be a dog. Unable to put an appointment in the diary for themselves, it is all too easy for a dog simply to adjust its posture to compensate, risking curvature of the spine.

Finger stripping on Wally’s head Picture: ROB CURRIE

An animal which has become snappy or agitated may be struggling with painful joints; he – or she – is just not in a position to make the real problem clear. Now there is a way of making your dog’s life a bit less like, well, a dog’s life. Lara James, also known as The Dog Massager, is on hand to offer the benefits of canine myotherapy, a technique she first became aware of after taking a degree in animal science.

Passive movement on Wally’s back legs helps to improve his range of motion Picture: ROB CURRIE

Life intervened before she could take things further then, but her interest was rekindled during those reflective days of lockdown. Last year she qualified and now dogs young and old are starting to feel the benefit. Mrs James is keen to stress that the treatment is not just something for older dogs.

Wimbers enjoys some paw massage Picture: ROB CURRIE

Optimal health is important for all animals with muscle tension, arthritis or hip problems, while those facing or recovering from surgery can see a real boost in their health. She said that this was not an alternative but a complement to the care provided by a vet.

Mrs James said the treatment is offered as a complement to the care given by vets Picture: ROB CURRIE

The JEP caught up with two dogs performing the role of guinea pigs for photographer Rob Currie. Wimbers, a five-year-old cockapoo, was referred to Mrs James by a vet, while one of her own dogs, Wally, a golden doodle of identical vintage, had no intention of being left out when it came to maintenance of glutes and hamstrings, or the relaxation of finger stripping.

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