What is CMT?

Canine Myofunctional therapy (CMT) is a type of specialised massage carried out by a qualified practitioner to improve health and wellbeing.  It is considered a “soft tissue specialty” allowing for the assessment of soft tissue trauma and overall function of the musculoskeletal system. The action of palpating the muscles and surrounding soft tissues with different techniques by stretching, loosening or separating the muscle fibres helps to restore biomechanical function and range of movement.

​Because Myofunctional therapy positively influences all 11 of the systems in a dog’s body, it is great for maintaining overall health by positively influencing the immune system. When we soothe the soft tissue and encourage relaxation, we increase the flow of blood, and supply the body with the oxygen and nutrients required to eliminate toxins.

​*Please note that CMT complements traditional veterinarian treatments and is not intended to be a replacement for veterinary care. CMT does not diagnose veterinary conditions or administer medication. Please consult your vet for diagnosis and treatment of acute injuries. 

Canine Myofunctional Therapy has many benefits including:

Physical benefits

  • Increases range of movement, muscle tone and improve body balance
  • ​Improve blood circulation and reduces muscle tension
  • ​Stimulates lymphatic drainage
  • ​Increases flexibility to decrease the risk of further injury
  • Speeds up recovery from exercise and injury​​

Mental and wellbeing benefits

  • Stimulates and calms the nervous system
  • Decreases anxiety and tension through endorphin release
  • ​Eliminates waste and toxins by delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells​
  • Reduces stress caused by outside stimulants, including new environments, adoption, loud noises, large groups of people and separation​​

The Rovers Way 3-Step Method

Step 1: Initial consultation

Prior to the session, Kat and the team will ask questions based on the dog's medical history, diet, housing, exercise, and other influencing factors.

If the dog is suffering from an injury or has recently had an operation, we may seek your permission to read through veteranian post-op notes.

​It's also important that your pup is comfortable during our sessions. You'll always be by their side for any anxious or nervous dogs . 

Step 2: During the session

Following the gait analysis and muscle assessment, Kat will perform the massage treatment based on what your dog presents with, and this will also determine if a treatment plan is required.

During the first couple of sessions, your dog may need frequent breaks as this type of therapy is new to them. Sometimes, treatments may be in shorter intervals as your dog may choose to move around and then decide to come back.
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For our frequent fur clients, we'll follow up from the previous session and massage treatment.

Step 3: After the session

Like any human therapy, it's very important for canines recover after a muscular and deep tissue massage.

After a session your canine may experience both physical and emotional release. These include being extra sleepy and drinking more water to aid removal of toxins from the body. 
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A couple of quiet days is recommended following the treatment to allow the systems to fully respond. We normally give you a call within 24 hours to check up and make sure your pup is feeling well.