Frequently Asked Questions
- Where does the treatment take place? Dogs are often more comfortable in their own home or garden, therefore I will visit you. However if you have a particular busy household it may be more beneficial and practical to arrange a different location let me know if you feel this is the case.
- How will my dog feel? As dogs can't actually speak to tell us we can only go on past observations and it seems that they can experience similar reactions to us in a human Bowen treatment, (see £10 Taster special offer for human Bowen). Reactions during and after a CBT session vary, and can range from feelings of deep relaxation, needing to drink more water, being a little achy the following day to having much more energy. During the actual CBT session your dog will dictate the amount of treatment she/he receives.
- How many sessions? Noticeable change is often achieved after one or two sessions, although dogs like us are individual and there are many factors which can contribute to the rate of healing such as lifestyle conditions, medication and diet. Chronic conditions may take longer to respond.
After an initial course dogs with chronic conditions, nervous, working or elderly dogs often benefit from regular maintenance sessions (see Special Rates).
- Will it ever hurt my dog? The first rule of CBT is 'Do no harm'. It is an extremely gentle technique which uses subtle movement of fingers and thumbs over muscle, ligaments and fascia at specific locations on the dog's body. There is no prolonged pressure or hard manipulation, and no pulling or cracking of joints. CBT should never hurt a dog.
- Is it a cure? CBT may provide much relief for dogs experiencing pain or discomfort and may be very helpful for older dogs and those with genetic or long term conditions, especially when used alongside conventional veterinary medicine. Sadly it is not a cure but the relaxing effects of CBT may help dogs cope better with certain conditions/diseases. CBT aims to create balance and harmony both physically and mentally which may help to bring a better quality of life.
- I have two dogs can you treat them together? Yes this can be done and works well if both dogs are usually calm and happy in each other's company. Although is ideally done individually, which makes it much easier for me to observe any reactions or changes in the dog during the session and allows for my full attention to be on the individual. It may be more convenient to treat both dogs on the same visit; I can chat with you and see how we can arrange this to get the best results for each dog.
- My dog is very nervous and doesn't like strangers, can he have CBT? Yes CBT can be very helpful for nervous and rescue dogs. It may take some time in building a relationship and trust with your dog therefore please be aware that the first couple of sessions may involve limited or no actual hands on therapy. It may also be the case that CBT is not right for your dog at this time and if I feel that another form of therapy would be more beneficial then I will refer this via your vet.