Shiatsu is a wonderfully gentle technique, which I generally use at the start of a treatment session to relaxthe animal and introduce my touch.
“The word “shi-atsu” in Japanese means “finger pressure”. Shiatsu involves pressure with fingers, thumbs and palms on areas of pain or sensitivity. Stretches and rotations are also an important part of the treatment, which aims to stimulate the body’s own self-healing abilities through increased blood circulation, lymphatic fluid movement and the activation of both divisions of the autonomic nervous system. The theories underpinning Shiatsu are those of traditional Oriental Medicine, similar to Acupuncture theory.” (The Equine Shiatsu Association)
How Can Shiatsu Help Your Animal?
- Shiatsu can relax the animal,
- Have a positive effect on their demeanour,
- Addressing musculoskeletal issues, I find it particularly useful for back, neck & hamstring muscles.
Shiatsu is a great therapy for older or sick animals, I have used it for geriatric patients, those with severe osteoartritis or other life ending conditions such as cancer, to keep them relaxed and give them some respite.
Archie, the black labrador is only 5 but has quite severe joint issues – he has a snooze whilst I Shiatsu him. 
Bailey, 12 yr old lab x, still hill climbing!
Any treatment which I conduct on an animal will usually combine Shiatsu with Veterinary Physiotherapy & McTimoney-Corley Spinal Manipulation.