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BCST for your pet

dog receiving craniosacral

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle yet effective remedy for animals. It works for animals in the same way that it works for humans. For information on how it works, visit                   Craniosacral therapy was originally developed by osteopaths for people.  In the late 1990s, therapists in USA started developing the technique for use on dogs, horses and other animals, with remarkable results.  Animals are extraordinarily receptive to Craniosacral therapy as their systems are very open without the 'layers' or defensive barriers that human systems tend to develop over time.  Most animals, particularly dogs and horses, respond very well to BCST. There are craniosacral practitioners in Europe, the United States and Australia who specialise in Equine and Canine Craniosacral therapy. I will see your dogs, cats and other animals at Oliver Pet Care Solutions, Lower Parel. To see your horses or larger animals, I will need to do a stable visit.

The following conditions have shown improvement when the animal has received BCST:

  • Arthritis

  • Spine and neck injuries

  • Lameness

  • Head injuries

  • Chronic joint pain

  • Hip dysplasia

  • Systemic disorders

  • Post-surgical recovery

  • Behavioural problems and emotional problems

Dogs suffering from hip dysplasia have shown a reduction in pain and an improvement in their gait after receiving BCST sessions. Post-surgical recovery is supported and assisted by BCST as it improves the dog’s vitality – its ability to recover from illness or surgery.

dog anatomy craniosacral therapy

BCST can be beneficial for older cats with kidney dysfunction, arthritis and nerve pain.

cat receiving craniosacral

Craniosacral therapy can help horses who suffer from head-tossing, lameness, neck and back issues, rotated pelvis, hindquarter injuries, problems with hocks, stifles, lower back issues, suspensory problems, head trauma, TMJ (jaw) dysfunction and many other conditions. This therapy rebalances their bodies so that they are able to perform more effectively and comfortably over a longer period.

The way that we keep our horses, the way that we ride them and what we expect of them often exposes them to injuries that can escape our attention.  An everyday occurrence such as a horse pulling back when tied up can exert enormous stress on the head, neck, face or elsewhere in the body. The bridle and the halter can put considerable pressure on the face and skull.  Tight nose-bands, improper bits, poor dentistry, ill-fitting tack can all contribute to ongoing and worsening constrictions in the horse’s musculoskeletal system.  These frequently cause joint problems, particularly issues with the jaw joint, resulting in teeth grinding, pulling at the bit and difficulty eating. See the following graphic for a better understanding of chronic nerve irritation of the face, mouth and jaw of the horse that often leads to head-tossing.  BCST addresses these issues in a gentle and effective manner.

horse anatomy craniosacral

Horses are often affected by issues in the rider’s body. A stiffness in the rider’s hips can cause a stiff gait in the horse, as the rider’s weight and tightness restrict the horse’s natural ability to translate motion through his spine. In such cases, evaluation and treatment of both the rider and the horse has alleviated their discomfort and improved performance.

Receiving a Session

Sessions with animals can be short as their systems are open and receptive to BCST. The time taken for the session will vary depending on the priorities that are expressed by your pet's body.

The owner/ primary care-giver must accompany the animal, at least to the first session. We will spend 10-15 mins discussing the symptoms and settling your pet. We will all sit together on the ground as I work with your pet. Your pet will choose the position that he/she is comfortable with, often lying down for the session (in the case of small animals). You may hold your pet as I work, if your pet is more comfortable that way. He/ she may fall deeply asleep during the session. This general protocol may be modified depending on your pet's needs.

Please observe your pet’s symptoms and behavior after the session, and report any changes in sleep pattern, digestion, movement and behaviour to me, so that we can track the progress of your pet’s condition. Make sure that your pet is well hydrated and gets adequate rest so that the work is integrated well. Do not be alarmed if your pet sleeps longer than usual after the session, or at a time of day when he/ she is normally active, as this may well be a part of the integration process, particularly for older animals.

BCST is a gentle and non-invasive therapy that has no contraindications and works well as a complementary therapy for complicated cases. It is a subtle yet powerful therapy that can transform a suffering animal’s life.

Clinic Address

Oliver Pet Care Solutions

210 Adhyaru Industrial Estate

2nd floor

Sun Mill Compound

Lower Parel

Mumbai - 400 013

Friends of Craniosacral Care for Animals

oliver pet care

Upcoming Events

  • Holistic Therapy for your Pet! a free public event
    Holistic Therapy for your Pet! a free public event
    Sat, 17 Nov
    Doolally Taproom Kemps Corner
    17 Nov 2018, 15:00 – 15:45
    Doolally Taproom Kemps Corner, 1st Floor, 135 Kwality House, August Kranti Marg, Kemps Corner Flyover,, Above Hobby Ideas, Near Kemps Corner Flyover, Kemps Corner, Tardeo, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400036, India
    17 Nov 2018, 15:00 – 15:45
    Doolally Taproom Kemps Corner, 1st Floor, 135 Kwality House, August Kranti Marg, Kemps Corner Flyover,, Above Hobby Ideas, Near Kemps Corner Flyover, Kemps Corner, Tardeo, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400036, India
    Holistic therapy involves treating the animal as a whole rather than chasing individual symptoms. Your pet's emotions and experience have a significant impact on his nervous system and therefore his physical health. If you're looking for a holistic approach to healthcare for your pet, come join us!!
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