Medical Massage
at Raintree Animal Hospital

Shannon Zura is our CVT certified in Medical Massage for Animals. While she mainly focuses her work on dogs, she is open to “trying her hand” with any species.

What is medical massage?
Medical massage, as opposed to relaxation massage, is geared towards resolving or complimenting traditional treatment for specific diagnosed conditions. It is beyond Shannon’s scope to diagnose conditions, so she must work in tandem with the veterinarians at Raintree Animal Hospital.

Why massage?
While traditional western medicine is the main mode of treatment here at Raintree Animal Hospital, our team of veterinary professionals has recognized the effectiveness of complimentary treatments in conjunction with traditional medicine. Not only can massage help treat specific conditions, but it can also be utilized for general relaxation. Our doctors recognize the physiological stress response of some animals, and its role in creating disease.

What are the benefits of massage?
• Increased blood flow to various tissues
• Decrease pain and swelling
• Relieve tight/sore muscles
• Release myofascial trigger points
• Alleviate stress
• Calm the nervous system
• Increase flexibility and range of motion
• Improve posture and coordination

What conditions can be treated with massage?
• Chronic pain (arthritis)
• Acute pain (compensatory muscle overuse issues from sprains and strains)
• Specifically diagnosed disease conditions (intervertebral disc disease, degenerative myelopathy, hip or elbow dysplasia, etc.)
• Post-surgical recovery from orthopedic surgeries