Scope of Practice

A scope of practice is a description of a practice that defines its procedures, actions, processes, and limitations. It is generally written, administered and enforced by governing, licensing, and law enforcement bodies; generally at the state level. Since PetMassage is a new field, it is not yet regulated. But for a few exceptions, there are no state laws that regulate or define PetMassage. We practice on the fringes of veterinary medicine. Animal massage and bodywork is occasionally challenged by the entrenched establishment of the AVMA.

Canine massage is gaining more and more credibility. Recently there has been a shift in the level of acceptance. With the work of the IAAMB, International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork and the NBCAAM, the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure & Massage, professional standards and minimum levels of competency are being instituted. There is now a national certification exam and credential along with the individual certificates of course completion that schools can issue. The reputation and acceptance of PetMassage is growing.

As more and more veterinarians include rehabilitation in their client services and protocols, and as their understanding and acceptance of massage and water therapy increases, the services of PetMassage WaterWork practitioners will be in greater demand. Already we are seeing a growing appreciation of the muscle toning effects of WaterWork for competition dogs and an increasing use of swimming as a way to comfort dogs with arthritis, speed healing after ACL surgeries, for weight loss, and as an exercise alternative.

One example of our increased credibility: the instructors at the University of Tennessee Animal Rehabilitation Program recommend training in PetMassage for those who are considering application to their school.

Within 10 years PetMassage providers will be part of the everyday protocol in most of the vet clinics in the US. We'll soon be seeing as many PetMassage businesses as groomers or trainers. PetMassage WaterWork continues to grow in popularity...and accessibility.

Until a set of standards is legislated for us, we have developed our own description of what we believe we can and cannot do.