Mountain Mutt Massage
Certified Canine Massage Therapy
Working with dogs of all ages, sizes, and stories
- from shy rescues to beloved seniors -
to support whole dog wellness through compassionate touch
WHY CANINE MASSAGE?
ENHANCES HEALTH
& HAPPINESS
Canine massage supports and enhances health, happiness, and quality of life. It provides loving comfort, eases tension, supports mobility, and creates an overall sense of wellbeing.
PROMOTES HEALING
& WELLNESS
Massage is wonderful after an injury or a surgery - increasing circulation, reducing swelling and pain, and promoting healing - all through safe, informed touch.
REDUCES STRESS
& ANXIETY
Massage helps calm anxiety, regulate the nervous system, and rebuild trust. It allows dogs to feel more safe and comfortable in their own bodies and with the people who love them.
QUALITY OF LIFE
FOR SENIOR DOGS
Gentle sessions can be especially impactful for senior dogs, providing comfort and helping to warm, soften, and ease stiffness and discomfort in muscles and joints.
About
Hi, I’m Rachel! I'm a board certified canine massage therapist with years of experience, extensive training, and a lot of love behind my hands. I've spent my career working with animals, but canine massage is the work that truly feels like home. I'm thankful for every opportunity to help dogs feel more comfortable, move more easily, and simply enjoy life a little more.
Every dog is an individual, and my goal is always to meet each dog where they are. Building their trust is one of the most meaningful parts of my work - healing starts with a dog who feels safe. By taking the time to connect with your dog and understand their personality, comfort level, and needs, I can provide gentle, individualized care that supports both their physical and emotional wellbeing. I've always had a special place in my heart for rescue dogs and those who need a little extra patience - especially those who are still learning that people can be trusted. Helping dogs feel safe, comfortable, and understood is my favorite part of this work.
My background includes a degree in Animal Science from NC State and years of experience as a vet tech, allowing me to bring an understanding of canine anatomy, movement, and medical conditions to each session. I completed my professional training through Canis Bodyworks, an immersive hands-on program, and am certified by the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM). I'm also a Level II Reiki practitioner, which naturally adds another calming, supportive element to each massage. I use a variety of techniques - including Swedish massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, orthopedic friction, manual lymphatic drainage, and energy work - to create sessions thoughtfully tailored to each dog's unique needs.
Whether your dog is an aging companion, a frightened rescue, a canine athlete, recovering from an injury, or simply in need of a little extra care, I'd be honored to get to know your dog and help them feel their very best.
Every dog is an individual, and my goal is always to meet each dog where they are. Building their trust is one of the most meaningful parts of my work - healing starts with a dog who feels safe. By taking the time to connect with your dog and understand their personality, comfort level, and needs, I can provide gentle, individualized care that supports both their physical and emotional wellbeing. I've always had a special place in my heart for rescue dogs and those who need a little extra patience - especially those who are still learning that people can be trusted. Helping dogs feel safe, comfortable, and understood is my favorite part of this work.
My background includes a degree in Animal Science from NC State and years of experience as a vet tech, allowing me to bring an understanding of canine anatomy, movement, and medical conditions to each session. I completed my professional training through Canis Bodyworks, an immersive hands-on program, and am certified by the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM). I'm also a Level II Reiki practitioner, which naturally adds another calming, supportive element to each massage. I use a variety of techniques - including Swedish massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, orthopedic friction, manual lymphatic drainage, and energy work - to create sessions thoughtfully tailored to each dog's unique needs.
Whether your dog is an aging companion, a frightened rescue, a canine athlete, recovering from an injury, or simply in need of a little extra care, I'd be honored to get to know your dog and help them feel their very best.
WOOF!
I believe strongly in trust and relationship building. Earning your dog’s trust and establishing a connection with them is the basis of all I do and is absolutely essential for this work. I’ll ask you for background information, but I’ll also get a LOT of information directly from your dog. This allows our sessions to be fully customized to each dog, each time, for maximum therapeutic benefit.
Please note: Massage is a wonderful complement to veterinary care, but doesn't replace it. I'm happy to work alongside your vet to support your dog's overall wellness.
Services
F.A.Q
Why choose a board certified CMT?
Anyone can rub a dog, right? Well, yeah, but not like this. In order to receive certification, a CMT must pass a national exam after completing an extensive training program including anatomy, behavior, massage theory and a deep dive into various techniques. A certified CMT has tons of hands-on experience with different dogs addressing different issues. Basically, we have the knowledge and experience to interpret body language, assess tissues, and proceed in the way that’s most beneficial for your pup!
What will your first session look like?
I ask that new clients fill out an intake form before our first session so I can start learning about your dog and anticipating their needs. Sessions are conducted in your home, where your dog feels most comfortable and relaxed. When I arrive, I’ll spend some time getting to know you and your dog. I want to hear all about them and their feelings, habits, quirks, and needs. It’s also helpful for me to watch them move around - observing their gait and confirmation gives me a lot of information about their physical comfort. Then I’ll give your dog some love and slowly transition into gentle massage techniques. How we proceed from there will be informed by your dog’s reactions, comfort level, and physical/emotional needs.
What will your dog think about all this?
Massage is a very different type of touch than petting, and dogs are aware of this. Most dogs enjoy this type of therapeutic TLC, but it’s often helpful to have some treats to encourage them to relax and stick around at first. Fearful dogs may take longer to warm up to the process, but I’ve had remarkable success with some such dogs. It just takes time and patience. Some other dogs are all in from the very beginning and may really enjoy deeper work to release muscle tension and trigger points. Regardless, I will ensure that your dog feels safe and comfortable by listening to them and working within their consent, always.
Contact
- Asheville, NC and surrounding areas
- +1-828-775-9484
- rachel@mountainmuttmassage.com
- by appointment
Client Intake Form
This is a great way for me to start getting to know you and your dog!