Pet owners turn to acupuncture, Bowen massage and Onnetsu heat therapy to keep dogs healthy

Taking the dog for a walk doesn’t cut it anymore. Exercise videos, massage and acupuncture are just some of the ways we’re now keeping our pets healthy.

A stroll round the block is no longer enough to keep Sydney’s pampered pooches healthy, with acupuncture, massages, laser therapy and even exercise videos rapidly growing in demand.

The 2012 government figures show that Australians spend almost a billion dollars a year on spoiling our furry friends and Tim Norris’ Both Ends of the Lead caters for that market.

Mr Norris’ business aims to offer holistic wellbeing for dogs and their owners with services such as rehabilitation exercise therapy, laser therapy, acupuncture, Onnetsu heat therapy and now canine exercise videos.

Dog massage is part of an increasing trend of pet pampering.

Walking is no longer the only way to keep dogs fit and healthy. Picture: Martin Lange.

Inspired by human health challenges Mr Norris and Mimi Fong have just launched the 4 Paws 2 Feet 21 Day Stretch Together Challenge.

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Participants sign up to the 21-day challenge to receive six free tutorial video stretch routines for themselves and six for their dogs to help ease everyday aches and pains.

The aim is to help owners create healthier habits for themselves and their dogs, with the bonus of having more quality bonding time together.

Tim Norris with ' Pippin' the dog and owner Mimi Fong. Mr Norris encourages people to stretch with their dog to boost health and flexibility. Picture: Mark Scott

Mr Norris said the challenge was inspired to honour the memory of his much-loved dog Oli, who recently lost his battle with cancer.

“As with people, learning to stretch your dog correctly can help reduce the risk of injury and help them move better and also have a positive effect on slowing down the risk of degenerative conditions affecting them,” he said.

“Stretching has been proven to increase flexibility, circulation, range of motion, reduce stress, ease lower back pain and generally just makes you feel better.”

Pampered pets like Chloe are becoming increasingly common. Picture: Jerad Williams.

Swimming is an alternative form of exercise for dogs. Picture: AP Photo/Mel Evans.

Mr Norris said people now tend to use their own healthcare experiences to inform pet care.

“We like to think of ourselves as promoting health and wellbeing,” he said. “20-30 years ago people didn’t know much about things like acupuncture but now people are applying the same mindset they have to their own health to their dogs.

“People have such a strong connection with their dogs – they are part of the family, so they will do anything to keep them well and healthy. I believe we are part of a growing movement.”

“There are amazing statistics surrounding how much people spend on their pets and I think within five to ten years the things we offer will become much more mainstream.”

For details or to sign up visit bothendsofthelead.com.au, call 0408 699 371 or email [e-mail].

Dogs can also help humans stay healthy too as ironwoman Courtney Hancock demonstrates. Pic by Luke Marsden.

● Chew Chew restaurant in Wollstonecraft on the north shore is one stop shop for fancy pet food including birthday cakes and three course meals exclusively for canine customers. Human companions must visit the cafe next door to get their fix.

● The glitzy Langham Hotel, in the Rocks, offers a pampered pets program with room service, specially designed food, plush beds and custom food and water bowls. All for $70 a night.

● If your dog needs an escape from the stresses of the modern world, Hanrob Pet Hotels, near Sydney airport offers eveything your canine companion can ask for. Features include heated floors, dog TV, constant pet supervision, doggie day spa and a man-made doggie beach.