The first session takes about an hour and focuses mainly on getting to know each other. This is when we first meet the dog and their owner in a calm environment, approaching the dog patiently and gently. We observe how the dog reacts to touch and how they respond to the presence of a new person – the massage therapist. We also take time to ask the owner detailed questions about the dog’s health, habits, and previous experiences to gain a full understanding. This first meeting is about building trust and laying the foundation for a working relationship – it’s essential to determine whether we can collaborate effectively in the future.