With her background in human, canine and equine sports and remedial massage, Julia has always worked with animals.
Having been an active partner on a working farm, Julia quickly recognised her affinity with animals. Before long it was Julia who was called upon when an animal needed help and she could often tell when an animal was ill before they did themselves.
This instinct led her on to become a Veterinary Nurse, then to the field of massage when her Labrador , Huffo, became severely ill. An early diagnosis said that he had a degenerative disease for which there was no treatment and that he may need to be put to sleep.
Thankfully however, a second opinion identified a potential soft tissue problem in his neck and so Julia asked a friend, a horse osteopath, to provide treatment. Initially Huffo responded with some small signs of improvement and later went on to make a full recovery.
Julia realised that there was a need for canine practitioners and that undoubtedly there were other dogs out there suffering, or even worst being put to sleep unnecessarily.
Julia researched the subject and found that in America it was already an established practice. She then studied human Sports and Remedial massage here in the UK (a pre-requisite) and then in 2001 journeyed to America for full training and later went on to train in equine as well.
Panda
In 2002 Julia established the Galen Therapy Centre in West Sussex in 2002 where she began treating dogs referred to her from local veterinary practices. Since that time Julia has dedicated her life and study to helping dogs enjoy a greater quality of life, working in tandem with veterinary surgeons to provide an effective complementary therapy.
Her greatest inspiration is Panda, her Newfoundland, who died aged 15, having enjoyed a full, active and healthy muscular life.
Moving Forward
The Galen Therapy Centre has now grown organically and offers the UK’s only (high level) Level 4 OCN accredited diploma course in Canine Massage, as well as a host of other workshops and courses and there are ‘Galen Myotherapists’ (selected graduates) who have set up their own practices across the UK under the Galen brand.
Julia continues to work as a practitioner, as well as a tutor, as she believes that it is essential to strive to both sustain and develop your skills throughout your career, which is why she has also ensured that students can earn Continued Professional Development (CPD) points from attending some of the Galen courses.
Julia also regularly holds talks across the UK, helping to educate others as to the importance of canine massage and the Galen Therapy Centre is at the forefront of promoting this therapy in the UK through attending, exhibiting and speaking at events across the country and by working with leading charities and dog associations.
She has just written two books on Canine Massage both should be published this year, The Complete Dog Massage Manual published by Hubble and Hattie and Canine Massage and Physical Therapy published by Mansons.
Julia’s first book is now available. The Complete Dog Massage Manual is great for anyone who is interested in getting more in touch with their dog and improving their health. It is full of great pictures showing you how you can safely apply massage techniques along with a detailed and clear understanding of how massage works and its impact on the dog. It contains a ‘trouble shooting’ guide, plus full glossary of terms. A must for anyone who is interested in using massage on their dog or taking it on further as a career. Follow the link to the shop to buy your copy. SHOP
Julia signing copies of her book at a Dog Show
Julia is also a regular monthly feature writer for The Dog World.
Julia’s Family
George
Julia has also raised two children Henry and Meggie, who both share her love for animals. They all enjoy riding their horses: Harry (12), Shamus and Robbie. The latter two are currently aged 29 and have been with the family since they were aged 12 and 8 respectively.
The family also has two lovable dogs, George and Monty who are the canine contingent of the family. George (12) is a Jack Russell cross Lhasa Appso and Monty (8) is a Border Collie, a rescue.
* It is with great sadness to announce that my friend and shadow, Monty has died today (8th February 2011), we are all in total denial – a true tribute will be placed on the site soon.
George who ruptured his cruciate ligament last year, is now back to full health. He has gone through a course of Galen Myotherapy and Galen Natural Progression.
George displaying a classic cruciate injury stance, being seen by a Vet. He has now made a full recovery! 
Henry, Julia and Meg with Monty, Robbie, Shamus, Harry and George
Contact Julia
If you would like to speak with Julia or book an appointment, please contact her on 0845 3751767 or email julia@caninetherapy.co.uk
Qualifications
- Dip. Sports and Remedial Massage (ITEC)
- Dip. Equine Sports and Remedial Massage (ITEC)
- Canine Massage ITT (NCTMB) U.S.A
- City and Guilds 7307 Certificate in Adult Learning (Stage 2)
- Reiki (second degree)
