Frequently Asked Questions

TREATMENT
What if my dog fidgets, is anxious, doesn’t like being touched, doesn’t settle, or won’t tolerate treatment?

Luisa is very experienced in working with nervous and anxious dogs, those from a background of neglect and / or abuse, and those in discomfort. She takes a highly considered, empathetic approach whereby your dog will be given choice to move away or pause if they feel uncomfortable.

Working in this way allows dogs to process what is going on, understand that they have choice and autonomy over their body, and that their boundaries will be listened to. As such, the vast majority of dogs learn to trust Luisa, and will even offer their uncomfortable areas to be treated.

Luisa understands that dogs’ behaviour is their way of communicating that they may be worried about something. By listening and responding appropriately rather than suppressing this behaviour (e.g. by holding a dog still or reprimanding them), dogs learn to trust their therapist, and invariably allow so much more treatment. An ethical relationship based on mutual respect, understanding, trust and connection is critical, and building this foundation can’t be rushed; the pace is decided by what your dog is comfortable with. Luisa has numerous happy and very pleasantly surprised clients whose expectations have been far exceeded .

TREATMENT
What if my vet hasn’t found anything?

Muscular issues do not typically show up on diagnostic veterinary imaging such as x-rays. Many of the issues we see are ‘sub-clinical’ meaning that their signs do not present overtly, and we are usually treating either the secondary muscular effects of a primary condition such as arthritis, or chronic postural changes rather than a clinical condition / diagnosis. Luisa will also discuss the reason for your dogs’ treatment, how they are presenting, and any pre existing conditions with you prior to your appointment.

Legally, therapists require consent from your dog’s vet prior to treatment (although we do not require a referral or recommendation as such). This ensures that there is effectively a screening process picking up any issues that would contraindicate treatment. This means that in such scenarios treatment would be inappropriate and potentially harmful. Luisa will also obtain your dog’s clinical notes from your vet and any other professional you’re working with prior to your appointment.

TREATMENT
What should I expect / do during a treatment

Often guardians can feel anxious about their dog ‘behaving’ or how they may react to treatment.

Please do feel free to discuss any concerns you may have prior to your dog's treatment; Luisa will be more than happy to do so, and feels strongly about putting both you and your dog at ease. She understands that it can feel somewhat counterintuitive and alien not to handle your dog and let them do as they please during their session!

Sitting back, relaxing and centering yourself is however exactly what you should do and infinitely more helpful for Luisa. Although perhaps not apparent, Luisa will be carefully watching and responding to every nuance of your dog’s behaviour. What she doesn’t do is as important as what she does do in the initial stage of working with your dog, and requires extreme focus. When trying to help, guardians can inadvertently interrupt this process and break Luisa and your dog’s focus. Animals are sensitive creatures and pick up and respond to our energy. Luisa’s clients often comment on how calm they feel during their dog’s sessions, and have even been known to doze off!

Luisa may ask for quiet to enable concentration at key moments during your dog’s treatment so please don’t be offended - this is so that she can focus purely on your dog and give them the best possible service and care. Should Luisa require your assistance during the session this will be indicated.

There will be time to chat at the end of the session. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about what is going on at any point during the treatment however, please do let Luisa know. You and your dog’s wellbeing is paramount, and open communication between both dog and therapist, and therapist and client is critical for a successful working relationship.

BOOKING
Do you do home visits?

Yes - Luisa is able to see you in the comfort of your own home across Sussex, Surrey, and parts of Berkshire, Kent, Hampshire, South London. She is also willing to travel further afield on request for multi dog households and an additional travel charge. Please contact Luisa directly with your request.

BOOKING
What are your working hours?

Luisa can be flexible and holds appointments between 8am and 9pm Monday to Friday. She also has limited occasional weekend availability. Please discuss your requirements with her and she will do her utmost to accommodate you.

INSURANCE
Will my pet insurance cover treatment?

Luisa is a member of the International Association of Animal Therapists, a professional body recognised by most pet insurance companies, meaning that treatment is likely to be covered by your pet insurance, subject to specific criteria, and the exclusion of preventative / maintenance treatment. Do check your individual policy documentation for any specific caveats or exclusions. Luisa is very happy to assist you in claiming for any treatment your dog has with her, and will provide all necessary supporting documentation