Community Update

Arlington resident brings massage to the dogs at Crate Escape

Certified small animal massage therapist soothes, strengthens, and supports wellness for doggie daycare clients

Pet parents have a new way to provide their canine companions with the benefits of massage, by booking appointments at Crate Escape in Belmont.

Janice Zazinski, Certified Small Animal Massage Therapist, has partnered with Crate Escape to provide canine massage Wednesday afternoons from 12 - 4 p.m. Sessions are an hour and are customized to a dog's particular needs.

"Dogs benefit from massage exactly as people do," Zazinski explains. "Massage is great for easing muscular stresses and strains in dogs of any age, and older dogs with arthritis or other chronic conditions can gain comfort and mobility from regular massage sessions."

In addition to supporting muscles and joints, she notes, massage has a positive effect on all of a dog's systems, from the inside out. "Digestion, the heart and lungs, the lymphatic system, and even the skin and coat benefit from massage," she says. "Perhaps best of all - for the owner - a regularly massaged dog is usually more relaxed around the house. My motto is: if dogs could talk, they'd beg for a massage."

Crate Escape is offering massage three ways:

• The Spa Package (bath and nails finished with an hour massage) for $95
• The Sports Packet (daycare and an hour massage before pick up) for $85
• Stand-alone Massage (1 hour with one-on-one consultation) for $60

Massage has joined the arsenal of wellness modalities that many people use to keep their beloved companions vital and healthy when young, and mobile and comfortable as they age. According to a March 2014 report by the American Pet Products Association, a record $56 billion was spent on pets last year. Much of this spending was to enhance wellness and quality of life through better nutrition, holistic treatments, and regular veterinary care.

Janice Zazinski is a Certified Small Animal Massage Therapist. Her company, Beloved Companion Animal Massage, provides in-home massage in Arlington and environs, and at Belmont's Crate Escape. Visit belovedcompanion.com for more information.

Crate Escape is Greater Boston's premier dog care provider, offering daycare, grooming, van service, and overnight boarding - and now massage. Massage is available by appointment at Crate Escape's Belmont location: 30 Brighton Street, Belmont, Mass. Call 617-489-9003 for more information or for an appointment. Visit Crate Escape at crate-escape.com.