THE CANINE SHIATSU ASSOCIATION

Gaining Veterinary consent to provide shiatsu touch (as a physical therapy) for a dog. Complying with the Veterinary Act 1966 and the Exemptions Order 1962.

Holds relevant Professional indemnity Insurance and will provide the Canine Shiatsu Association (CSA) with a copy of these insurance documents annually

Providing clear information to owners, of our clients,  regarding the nature of shiatsu touch, what a session involves, location and times of a session

The owner should consult their vet regarding the health of their dog to receive Shiatsu

Shiatsu as a holistic therapy means our Practitioners will always work with the whole picture of the dog, its life, work, environment and additional needs.

Observing and understanding the dog’s (client’s) needs, behaviour, body language – allowing the dog to choose to stay, go, move without restriction.

Observing the feedback from the client’s body language – vocal noises, movement, organ gurgling.

Providing information to the owner regarding a session and any potential side effects.

Having the right to end a  session if the dog appears to be uncomfortable with the situation.

Being clear about post session exercise, water consumption, sleeping patterns, and clearly stating that the owner should contact the Pracitioner if at all concerned in the following days.

No pressure to make future appointments, our Practitioners appreciate that owners may prefer to see any improvements before booking another appointment.

Non-prescriptive number of sessions, instead our practitioners will give evidence from experience e.g. arthritic client progressed after 6 session and owner felt able to maintain with occasional top up visit, digestive problem improved after first session, owner attended a second session just for their need with subsequent sessions as needed.

Keeping concise records of each session in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

Acknowledges the confidential nature of the professional relationship with clients and respects each client’s & owner’s privacy.

Potential requirement, with owner’s consent, to pass on information to vets or subsequent therapists.

Never diagnosing – Using Shiatsu Assessment, providing information within personal limitations

Referral to a Vet when the Practitioner feels Shiatsu is having no effect or a shiatsu assessment could point to a traditional veterinary issue.

To discuss with the owner if another type of therapy may be beneficial; either in conjunction or instead of.

To discuss with the owner the suitability of continuing Shiatsu Sessions, a maintenance programme e.g. for long term mobility / or immunity to allergies. Our Practitioners should have an insight as to the client’s progress around the 3rd treatment.

Advertise or promote Shiatsu Sessions honestly. Our Practitioners understand they must not use the words or make claims to ‘Cure’ or ‘Heal’.