Swimming, massage put spring back in pooch’s step
By Jane Donahue For The Beacon-News January 13, 2012 6:04PM
Ron Hanik, owner of A+ Pet Massage and Swimming, has worked with hundreds of dogs. | Courtesy of Sirius Pet Images
On the web
To learn more about A+ Pet Massage and Swimming, visit www.apluspetmassage.com
Article Extras
Related Stories
Updated: February 18, 2012 8:06AM
Sparkie was an active golden retriever when arthritis began to slow him down.
His owner, Bobbi Erdmann of Aurora, searched for ways to improve his overall health and mobility — and found it under water.
Erdmann began taking Sparkie to Ron Hanik, owner of A+ Pet Massage and Swimming. A certified massage therapist, Hanik offers pet massage, hydrotherapy and swimming at his locations in Oswego and Wood Dale.
“Ron is working on loosening up Sparkie’s back and strengthening his back legs,” said Erdmann. “The swimming is doing wonders for him. Sparkie keeps getting better and better.”
Hanik, 35, started his business 3-1/2 years ago after adopting a pit bull mix named Bella.
“Bella was born with arthritis in her ankles, terrible hip dysplasia and had just had major knee surgery. She was a mess,” Hanik said.
“After becoming certified in animal massage and performing massage twice a week (on her), Bella stopped limping.”
His business idea was born, with Bella as a walking — not limping — advertisement. Hanik added swimming and hydrotherapy, and most recently, become licensed as massage therapist for humans as well.
Although his business has grown over the years, Hanik said there are still many misconceptions about pet massage.
“Most people view massage as something that is only relaxing and a nice idea for their dog,” Hanik said.
However, massage actually is a goal-directed therapy with great benefits.
“We have been able to improve conditions and problems that traditional medicine, acupuncture and chiropractors have had difficulty correcting,” he said. “Massage is more than just petting; it is directed, structured therapy to help alleviate problematic conditions.”
Massage and water therapies are widely recognized for treating people, and now are gaining popularity in the pet arena. Both owners and veterinarians tout their therapeutic benefits. “It increases circulation, improves healing, and has a lot of benefits in general, “said Dr. Susan Liszewski, veterinarian and owner of TLC First Animal Hospital in Chicago. “Animals have a lot of things that build up over time, a lot of things they are exposed to. It really has a big impact.”
Liszewski not only refers canine patients to Hanik, she takes her own dog there for massage therapy and swimming.
“Ron works with Zeke two or three times a week,” said Liszewski, of her 6-year-old German short-haired pointer. “Zeke is a high energy dog that causes a lot of damage. The swimming, pet massage and hydrotherapy are all part of healing. There is a really good use for these treatments.”
Liszewski said her TLC animal hospital combines holistic and alternative medicines with many of their treatments. She sees Hanik’s services as a welcome complement to veterinary medical care.
“In cases when we have animals with specific problems — like a really complicated muscle that is pulled and is really difficult to deal with — massage therapy is really beneficial in helping them heal,” the veterinarian said.
“I believe there is going to be a lot of growth in this area. People want a more holistic approach and more alternatives. We need to keep educating and educating.”
Comments Click here to view or make a comment