Professional Canine Massage Therapy Certification Program
The Canis Bodyworks Difference
Online Foundation Courses
Foundation Workshops
Advanced Courses & Beyond
Certification Program Courses
Our 202-hour certification program includes the following courses...
Online Foundation Courses
Trust & Relationship-Building with Dogs, Part 1
Step 1 in your canine massage learning journey begins here. Understanding how to earn a dog's trust is vital to being able to provide them with therapeutic massage. TRB is the cornerstone of our curriculum and is required for everyone.
Canine Massage Fundamentals, Part 1
Follow TRB with this foundational course that prepares you for the hands-on workshop. Massage concepts, palpation theory, scope of practice, proper documentation, and an intro to canine anatomy are just a few of the topics you'll cover here.
Physical Dog,
Part 1
Understanding the dog means learning all of the body systems and how they function. This online course provides you with content you'll need for the board certification exam, but also for becoming a knowledgeable practitioner.
Canine First Aid Concepts & Pathology
This online course can be taken at anytime during the program. You'll gain valuable insights into first aid and CPR strategies as well as foundational knowledge in pathology, the chain of infection, inflammatory response, biosecurity, and more.
Foundation Level Workshops
Trust & Relationship-Building with Dogs, Part 2
TRB Part 2 takes you into the classroom to build on the knowledge you gained in the online course. You'll fill your trust-building toolbox with new skills for working with stressed, fearful, or anxious dogs. Every dog needs trust-building!
Canine Massage Fundamentals, Part 2
Get ready to learn and practice the foundational massage techniques in this essential classroom experience. Practice palpation skills and Swedish massage techniques on live dogs. Hands-on work must be learned in a hands-on environment.
Physical Dog,
Part 2
Musculoskeletal anatomy, structure, and movement patterns are the focus of this hands-on workshop. Find and feel the structures on a variety of dogs. Watch gait in real time and learn how to detect what's "normal" and what's not.
Business of Canine Massage & Bodywork
This workshop takes place in a live Zoom webinar setting. A bodywork business requires a unique approach to development and marketing, and there are many directions you can go with this work. Learn from the comfort of your home while getting your specific business questions answered and your ideas discussed.
Advanced Workshops, Case Studies, & Certification
Lymphatic Massage: The Common Denominator
This advanced massage technique is beneficial for dogs at any stage of life, but is essential for dogs who are elderly, post-surgical, or in any way compromised. Gentle and nuanced techniques help with managing swelling/edema and boost the immune system by ridding the body of metabolic wastes.
Myofascial Trigger Point Therapy & Orthopedic Friction
A combination of advanced techniques, this course teaches you game-changing bodywork tools that take your skills to a much higher level and benefit the dogs in your care. Decrease pain, increase range of motion, and assist in tissue healing to promote ongoing strengthening and rehabilitation.
Case Study Practicum
This online, home-based course allows you to get real-world experience while putting the pieces of your training together. Client scheduling, technique application, troubleshooting, and documentation are just a few of the skills you'll practice and hone. A Canis Bodyworks instructor will mentor you along the way.
NBCAAM
National Certification Exam
After completing Canis Bodyworks' 202 hour program, it's time to begin studying for the national board exam for canine massage certification. We provide you with study tools, support, and opportunities for review. NBCAAM has many of its own study resources, too. We'll be here to guide you through the process and answer any questions you might have.
Where We Teach
Chicagoland, IL
St. Louis, MO
Reston, Virginia
Ontario, Canada
We also teach in beautiful New Zealand!
Find out more on our Mentorship Program page.
Questions?
Visit our Contact page, or reach out to us at Info@CanisBodyworks.com.