03/17/2026
🐾💛 Can Dogs with Heart Murmurs Enjoy Bodywork? Yes, They Absolutely Can. 💛🐾
A heart murmur doesn’t mean your dog can’t enjoy bodywork— with your veterinarian’s approval, it simply means we tailor the session to safely support their comfort, circulation, and relaxation.
Dogs can develop murmurs at any age. Some dogs, especially seniors and small breeds, develop murmurs as part of normal aging. A murmur means a change can be heard in how blood flows through the heart. It doesn’t automatically mean disease or pain, and your veterinarian can assist with diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. Lots of dogs live long, happy lives with a heart murmur, and gentle bodywork can actually help them feel more comfortable day‑to‑day.
The work I do — massage, acupressure, nervous system, and lymphatic support — is calming, and always tailored to your dog. We avoid anything that would strain the heart and instead focus on deep relaxation, mobility, comfort, gentle lymphatic flow, and improved rest and recovery.
When a dog with a murmur relaxes, their whole system softens. Their breathing slows, their muscles release tension, and their body gets to rest. That parasympathetic “ahhh” moment is incredibly supportive for heart health and overall wellbeing.
I monitor your dog’s comfort throughout the session — their breathing, posture, and energy guide the pace. If they need a break, we pause. If they want lighter touch, we shift techniques. Their body leads, and I follow.
Dogs with heart murmurs still love touch, connection, and feeling good in their bodies. Bodywork gives them a safe space to unwind, support with any other issues, and enjoy gentle comfort.
A murmur doesn’t close doors — it simply invites us to be thoughtful. And with the right approach, your dog can absolutely enjoy the soothing, heart‑friendly benefits of bodywork.
🥔 And this little potato?
This is Mo. He arrived with a heart murmur and a family wondering if he’d be able to relax.
Mo’s response? “Hold my kibble.”😎
Heart murmur? Yes. 💛
Professional relaxer? Confirmed. ✅
