Supporting Dogs Who Struggle with Handling: Consent-Based Bodywork Approaches with Lucy Tyrrell

Some dogs find being handled difficult.
And for guardians who are trying to support them, that reality can feel confusing, limiting, and quietly heartbreaking.

In this episode, I am joined by Lucy Tyrrell, a Galen Myotherapist and founder of Pawsitive Touch, for an honest, grounded conversation about consent-based bodywork for dogs — particularly dogs who are touch-averse, reactive, sensitive, or carrying trauma in their bodies.

Together, they explore what it means to truly listen to a dog’s nervous system, how to move away from the idea that care requires compliance, and how guardians can support their dogs without pushing past their boundaries.

As a mama of a dog who finds handling challenging, I know this episode will help other dog mamas who share the frustration of wanting to build a supportive care team, and feeling that some complementary therapies may not be accessible or appropriate for our dogs right now. Fortunately, as Lucy talks about positive and practical ways forward.

This episode is for you if:

• Your dog struggles with being handled by others
• You’ve felt unsure or conflicted about hands-on therapies
• You want to support your dog’s body in a way that feels safe and respectful
• You’re curious about consent-based approaches to care
• You want to learn how to do less forcing and more listening

✨ Stay tuned until the end of the episode, where Lucy shares details about a special online workshop designed to help guardians learn powerful, practical, consent-based massage techniques they can use themselves to support their dogs at home.

This conversation offers a different way forward — one rooted in trust, agency, and meeting the dog in front of you.

To connect with Lucy and learn more about her upcoming workshop on Sunday, 8th February at 12pm UK time, email her at: [e-mail]

To find a Galen Myotherapy practitioner near you:

https://www.galenmyotherapy.com/team

For more information on the Galen Myotherapy Distance Support Programme:

https://www.galenmyotherapy.com/dsp

Connect with me!

Website: https://mysticdogmama.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com

Come join my free Facebook group, FETCH First Light. It’s my sanctuary where soulful dog mamas like you find clarity, confidence, and connection https://facebook.com/groups/fetchfirstlight

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease, or replace medical guidance. Please speak with your veterinarian.