Manual lymphatic drainage, often referred to as MLD, is a gentle hands-on technique that’s a valuable addition to canine massage therapy, as it is designed to support the movement of lymph fluid through the body. It is particularly useful for dogs who are recovering, post-surgery, dealing with swelling or needing a calm and gentle treatment.
I learned manual lymphatic drainage at a CPD day with the Canine Massage Therapy Centre. As a clinical therapist, I can now also perform MLD on dogs, using a careful and individualised approach tailored to each case.
What is MLD?
MLD is a very light, rhythmic technique that works just beneath the surface of the skin rather than into the muscle, as that is where 70% of lymph vessels are found.
The lymphatic system is part of the body’s wider support network where lymph nodes act as small filtering points, helping to process fluid and support immune function.
The aim is to encourage the body’s natural flow of lymph, which helps the body manage fluid balance and clear waste products. It may help reduce swelling, support recovery after surgery or injury, and assist dogs that are generally feeling congested in some areas.
How does MLD benefit your dog?
- It restores balance back to the dog’s body by helping to restore function of the lymphatic system.
- It helps to reduce swelling in their body, making it suitable for dogs post-surgery, or if there has been an injury or periods of immobility where swelling is present.
- It activates the parasympathetic nervous system, providing the dog with a calming effect and reducing anxiety.
- It helps to remove waste products and toxins from the body.
- With regular sessions, it can help to retrain the lymphatic system to work more effectively.
MLD can be applied within the critical 72-hour post-operative window to significantly reduce swelling, manage inflammation, and accelerate the natural healing process.
What can I expect from a treatment?
If it is your dog’s first treatment, please read What To Expect, however there will be some differences, noted below.
MLD looks very superficial and light so that muscles are not stimulated. The treatment is very relaxing and so it is normal for your dog to go to sleep.
The treatment starts in the area called The Terminus. This helps to open the lymph collectors that are working well and initiates a whirlpool effect to help the lymph fluid move faster. I will then work across the whole body (not just the area of swelling / issue) directing any areas of congested lymph towards open lymph collectors.
This treatment normally lasts around 1.5 hours so will be £75.
If you think your dog would benefit from a treatment of manual lymphatic drainage, please contact me.
I require veterinary consent for dogs that I treat. Please find a link to my form here.