I have always loved animals and when I become the Guardian of my first Dobermann Theo, I became hooked on the canine variety, so much so that Bailey, our second Dobermann, quickly followed to join our family, followed in 2021 by Levi.
So how did I get into my love of working with Dogs
I was introduced to Dog Shows and I soon got hooked on taking the dogs’ and competing at both Open and Championship level. Attending these shows gave me the opportunity to see lots of different breeds of dogs and their varying gaits. It was interesting to watch how a particular dog’s gait and posture could vary from show to show, week to week and this made me wonder if certain muscles were in need of manipulation either through injury and overcompensation or perhaps just needing some massage to ease over/ under worked muscle. Having trained previously in human massage I researched how massage could improve a dogs mobility and assist with muscuskeletal issues, and came across the two year Clinical Canine Massage Practitioner Programme. The rest is history!
Levi receives regular treatments in all modalities I am trained in for general wellbeing and to treat any injuries he may sustain during activities of everyday living.
I am available to give talks to groups and Organisations, to help raise the awareness of how these Holistic treatments can benefit your dog.
I am fully insured and continue to develop my skills through the attendance of Continuous Professional Development (CPD).
My Professional Training
The Botanical Self Selection / Zoopharmacognosy programme was an 18 month course which now enables me to help and support you and your dog whilst experiencing the wonderful world of self selection of essential oils, herbs and other botanicals. This process offers a holistic approach for your pets as they intuitively select the botanical that they need in that moment.
The Clinical Canine Massage Practitioner Programme with the Canine Massage Therapy Centre was an intensive two year course training taking place over 800 hours of study in both practical skills and advanced canine anatomy and physiology, along with four types of massage – Swedish, Sports, Deep Tissue and Myofascial Release (both Direct and Indirect).
As a Licensed Coach with the Canine Conditioning Academy I am able to deliver the CCA’s 8 week programme. Each session we will use specific, targeted and measurable core strengthening exercises that will transform your dogs core strength, stability, balance and flexibility and help prevent injury. All exercises will be individually tailored for your dog.
Reiki is a holistic energy healing technique that originated in Japan. It involves channeling universal energy to promote relaxation, stress relief, and healing. This gentle practice can be beneficial for dogs, helping them feel balanced and supported both physically and emotionally.
Continuous Professional Development completed:
- Acupressure for Dogs
- Mad About Muscles
- Faciliated Stretching for Dogs
- Advanced Deep Tissue Massage
- Canine Conditioning Foundation 2 Day Workshop
- Canine Conditioning Intermediate 2 Day Workshop
- Canine Conditioning Advanced 2 Day Workshop
- Reiki Levels 1 and 2
I am a Botanical Self Selection / Healing Practitioner, a Clinical Canine Massage Therapist, a Licensed Canine Conditioning Instructor, and a Reiki Practitioner
Carol Collins – Founder and Owner of Canine Affinity
Contact Me Today
Please contact me for further information and to discuss how Canine Affinity can help you and your canine friend find results you can see and your dog can feel.