Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyson Snelling.
Hi Alyson, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
After spending 20+ years in advertising as an Art Director, I had become unhappy with my work and sought to find something more rewarding for my soul. An article I found on Canine Massage called to me, and I made the choice to go after my lifelong dream of working with animals.
In 2015, I gained my certification in Canine Massage Therapy, Pet CPR, and First Aid through the Chicago School of Canine Massage (now Canis Bodyworks), followed by my National Certification through NBCAAM. I partnered with Canis Bodyworks in 2018 as Director of Marketing & Design and Lead Instructor, bringing canine massage and bodywork education to St. Louis. In 2020, I obtained my certification as a Canine Fitness Trainer through the University of Tennessee. Additionally, I am an attuned Animal and Human Reiki Practitioner, Fear Free™ certified, and have been involved with several local rescue groups as both a foster parent and volunteer.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I was completely new to building a small business, so there was a slight learning curve in putting the pieces together at first. Plus, canine massage was a relatively new field of work and was largely unfamiliar territory in St. Louis when I started. In the beginning, I spent a significant amount of time educating the public and pet parents of both the importance and health benefits of canine massage and what I can provide through this work for our beloved pets. I still focus heavily on educating but am happy to see canine massage becoming more widely known and accepted as a therapeutic modality.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
I am the owner and head Canine Massage Therapist of Ash & Oak Canine Massage. I was the first Nationally Certified Canine Massage Therapist in Missouri. I currently work with the rehab team at Back On Track Veterinary Hospital & Rehabilitation Center in O’Fallon, MO, and provide in-home canine massage to the Greater St. Louis area. My massage services include Swedish techniques, stress relief, lymphatic drainage, myofascial release, hospice/palliative focus, oncology massage, and Reiki. I offer canine fitness training for those interested in an exercise plan for active dogs or recovery program. I am also a lead instructor for Canis Bodyworks in St. Louis, teaching our Canine Massage Therapy program for certification.
When it came time to develop my brand, I turned to my pets for inspiration. In 2013, I lost my dogs Astrid and Marco unexpectedly to cancer. I’m certain they were responsible for leading me on my path to canine massage therapy, so I wanted to build a name and logo in their honor.
While researching name ideas, I came across a pronunciation key using “oak” for the sound of the second syllable in Marco. Oak brought me to Ash, which reminded me of a mistaken name of Ashtray for Astrid (we lovingly called her Ashtray from then on). Ash trees represent healing; Oaks represent strength and stability. As a Canine Massage Therapist, I believe these qualities are exactly what I strive to provide in my work – a healing touch to help build strength and stability to my canine clients.
As I continue with this rewarding work, I am dedicated to advancing my knowledge of canine massage, holistic modalities, animal behavior, and communication. My goal as a Canine Massage Therapist is to provide comfort and healing to those in need and educate parents on helping maintain a healthy lifestyle for their pets.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Give yourself time to build your client list and find your target audience. Speak from the heart, and your passion will show. Most importantly – Don’t forget to give time for yourself. There is a lot of energy exchange in this work, so self-care is key for your own well-being.
Pricing:
- Initial Consult – $90
- 1/2 hr session – $55
- 1 hr session – $95
- 1/2 hr package (6 sessions) – $275
- 1 hr package (6 sessions) – $475
Contact Info:
- Website: ashandoaktherapy.com
- Instagram: instagram.com/ashoaktherapy
- Facebook: facebook.com/ashoaktherapy
- Other: tiktok.com/@ashoaktherapy
Image Credits
Lynn Terry Photography
