Helping your dog feel their best at every age and stage.

Gentle, effective bodywork to support your dog’s comfort, movement, and quality of life as they age.
Is your dog starting to slow down or feel a little stiff?
You might be noticing small changes that are easy to overlook at first:
-
Stiffness when getting up or after rest
-
Taking longer to stand or settle
-
Slowing down on walks or tiring more easily
-
Limping or moving unevenly
-
Hesitation with stairs, jumping, or getting into the car
-
Holding tension through the body or standing differently
-
Sensitivity to touch in certain areas
-
Lower energy or reluctance to move
These changes are often your dog’s way of compensating for discomfort.
Gentle bodywork can help release areas of tension, support natural movement, and restore balance through the body. Therapeutic canine massage works with the muscles, fascia and nervous system to improve comfort, mobility and relaxation.
Regular bodywork can also help support your dog’s long-term wellbeing, keeping them moving comfortably and enjoying their daily activities for longer.
Services include
In-person
Senior Mobility & Comfort Bodywork
Relieves stiffness and discomfort, supports recovery, and helps senior dogs move more comfortably in their day-to-day life.
Online
Bodywork course
Learn how to support your dog’s comfort and movement at home with safe, practical techniques guided by a professional.
In-person
Workshops & Education
For pet parents and dog professionals wanting to better understand movement, tension, and how to support dogs as they age.
ABOUT

Hi, I’m Nicole. The founder of Gentle Dog Canine Massage.
My journey into canine massage began with Lilo, my rescue Bull Terrier who taught me just how much healing touch can offer.
Today, I work with all kinds of dogs from high-energy pups to slow-moving seniors using gentle, remedial techniques that ease discomfort, support mobility, and help dogs feel grounded and safe in their bodies.
Whether you’re looking for in-person support or guidance you can follow at home, I’m here to help you care for your dog in a more connected, mindful way.
Every dog deserves a chance to live their best life, no matter their age. 🐾
Does my dog need to be sore or injured to benefit?
Not at all.
Many of the dogs I work with are active, healthy companions whose owners simply want to support their comfort and movement as they grow and age.
Bodywork can help maintain healthy movement patterns, support recovery after exercise, and identify areas of tension before they develop into larger issues.
Each session is tailored to the individual dog. Young dogs may benefit from positive touch and body awareness, while older dogs often benefit from gentle techniques that help ease stiffness and support mobility.
The goal of bodywork is to help the body move more comfortably and efficiently.
Benefits may include support for:
-
Muscle tension and soreness
-
Soft tissue strain from play or exercise
-
Joint stiffness and age-related changes
-
Recovery after physical activity
-
Improved flexibility and range of motion
-
Better posture and movement patterns
-
Circulation and tissue health
-
Relaxation and nervous system regulation
-
Stress and anxiety reduction
-
Pre- and post-surgery recovery support
Many owners also find that regular sessions help them better understand their dog’s body and notice changes earlier.
What can canine massage help support?

LOCATION
SOCIALS
We currently service Melbourne’s inner and surrounding suburbs. For locations 30+ km from Footscray, please contact us to discuss availability and fees.

