happy paws.
Healing hands,
In home dog massage servicing Barrie, Innisfil, Orillia, Simcoe County and Toronto. For locations outside of these areas please reach out!
Benefits of canine massage
Pain Relief
Reduces stiffness and soreness, especially for senior dogs with arthritis or chronic conditions.
Faster Recovery
Speeds up post-surgical or injury rehabilitation by encouraging tissue repair.
Improved Mobility
Increases range of motion so your dog can jump, sprint, and play more comfortably.
Injury Prevention
Maintains a balanced musculoskeletal system, reducing the risk of strains and sprains.
Enhanced
Circulation
Stress &
Anxiety Reduction
Behavioral Improvements
Calms the nervous system, leaving your dog more relaxed and confident.
Our massage therapy sessions are designed to enhance mobility, relieve pain, and reduce anxiety in your furry companions. We use gentle techniques that cater to each dog's specific needs.
Helps shy or reactive dogs become more comfortable with touch, grooming, and handling.
About
At Restorative Canine Massage Therapy, my work is rooted in a deep respect for each dog’s individual experience. Every dog is unique, and I believe care should always be guided by patience, trust, and compassion. I take a gentle, calm approach to each session, allowing the experience to unfold at your dog’s own pace so they feel safe, supported, and comfortable throughout the process.
I believe that healing begins with connection. Through thoughtful touch, calm presence, and attentive care, my goal is to help dogs feel more relaxed, balanced, and at ease in their bodies. Whether supporting recovery, mobility, or overall wellness, each session is tailored to your dog’s specific needs and comfort level.
I started Restorative Canine Massage Therapy out of a lifelong connection with animals. All types of critters - furry, feathered, scaly and gilled - have been a source of comfort, compassion, and joy in my life. Today, I’m grateful to share my life with my two beloved dogs, Ollie and Bailey, a Border Collie/Vizsla mix and a Beagle/Lab mix. They continue to inspire me every day and deepen my understanding of the special bond between people and their animal companions.
My training in canine massage therapy was completed at the Royal Canadian College of Massage Therapy, where I received comprehensive education and hands-on clinical training in canine massage therapy techniques, therapeutic care, and canine wellness practices.
Before following my passion for working with animals, I spent more than 20 years in the health and wellness industry, focusing on nutraceuticals, herbal therapies, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. I also hold an MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management. While my professional background began in wellness and business, my love for dogs ultimately inspired me to change direction and dedicate my work to helping dogs live more comfortable, balanced, and healthy lives through compassionate, restorative canine massage therapy.
-Susan McDermott, CCMT
What to expect...
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A calm, quiet environment
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Your dog sets the pace
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Gentle, non-invasive techniques
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Breaks as needed
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A relaxed, supportive experience
Services
1
Senior Dog Massage
Senior dog massage is a gentle, hands-on therapy designed specifically for older dogs to support their aging bodies. As dogs get older, they often deal with stiffness, reduced mobility, and conditions like arthritis or muscle loss. Massage helps address these issues in a calm, non-invasive way.
2
Anxiety/Stress Relief
An anxiety/stress relief massage for dogs is a calming, gentle form of touch meant to help a dog’s nervous system settle down. It’s less about muscles and more about creating a sense of safety and relaxation.
Massage works by encouraging the opposite response (sometimes called the parasympathetic nervous system), which helps slow heart rate, relax muscles, and ease tension.
3
Rescue/Trauma Massage
Rescue trauma dog massage is a very gentle, consent-based approach to touch that helps dogs who’ve had difficult past experiences feel safe in their bodies again. Many rescue dogs carry lingering fear from things like neglect, abuse, or constant stress, and their nervous systems can stay on high alert. Massage, when done carefully, can help them shift out of that state.
Services
Senior dog massage is a gentle, hands-on therapy designed specifically for older dogs to support their aging bodies. As dogs get older, they often deal with stiffness, reduced mobility, and conditions like arthritis or muscle loss. Massage helps address these issues in a calm, non-invasive way.
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30 minute
Senior dog massage
Gentle care for aging dogs
Puppy conditioning massage
Introduces touch and handling early
Anxiety/stress relief massage
calming techniques for nervous dogs
Rescue/trauma-informed massage
Slow, trust-building sessions