WELCOME TO RETRIEVING WELLNESS
Enhancing your dog’s overall well-being with a whole body approach.
Discover the art of canine bodywork, where expert touch meets the intricate world of fascia. My holistic approach emphasizes the importance of restoring balance and alignment within your dog’s body to promote health & vitality. By addressing the root cause of discomfort and dysfunction, I aim to improve your dog’s quality of life, addressing silent pain & trapped emotions, ultimately enhancing their overall well-being with a whole body approach.
ABOUT RETRIEVING WELLNESS
We offer a combo of Osteopathy, Bodywork & Nutrition for your dog.
CANINE OSTEOPATHY
A hands-on approach that focuses on the relationship between the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, and overall function of the body. It promotes natural healing, improves mobility, and restores balance.
CANINE BODYWORK
Includes techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, myofascial release, and stretching to help relieve tension, improve circulation, and enhance performance.
TRY OUR HOMEMADE BONE BROTH RECIPE
Looking to support your dog’s joints from the inside out? Try our homemade bone broth recipe—a natural, nutrient-rich way to boost joint health, hydration, and recovery. Simple to make, packed with goodness, and dog-approved!
What is the difference between bodywork & osteopathy? How does it compare to chiropractic care?
While chiropractic care primarily focuses on adjusting the spine, osteopathy and bodywork take a more holistic and full-body approach to healing.
Chiropractic adjustments are often used to correct spinal misalignments and restore proper joint motion. These adjustments can offer quick relief for certain issues, especially those related to the spine or nerve impingements. However, chiropractic care typically does not address the surrounding soft tissues—like muscles, fascia, or ligaments—that may be contributing to the problem in the first place.
That’s where osteopathy and bodywork come in. These modalities go beyond the spine and look at the entire musculoskeletal and nervous system. Instead of focusing on one isolated joint or vertebra, osteopathy considers how the body moves and functions as a whole, taking into account compensations, tension patterns, circulation, and even how organs and posture may be influencing your dog’s movement.
Osteopathy is a manual therapy that uses gentle, non-invasive techniques to realign structures, release tension, and improve the flow of fluids like blood and lymph. It supports the nervous system, encourages self-healing, and promotes long-term, sustainable balance and mobility.
Bodywork is a broad term that includes massage, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, and other hands-on techniques that work with the body’s tissues. These methods help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and improve range of motion by targeting the soft tissue imbalances that often underlie stiffness, soreness, and injuries.
While chiropractic care can be a useful tool, osteopathy and bodywork offer a more comprehensive solution—one that not only alleviates symptoms but also supports whole-body wellness, recovery, and performance.
Start your dog’s healing journey today! We’ll work together to build a health plan for your dog.
DISCLAIMER
Bodywork is not meant to replace regular veterinary care, nor to diagnose, but rather to support the body in addition to your primary vet. In fact, should your pet have a laceration, limp or lump, it is encouraged you seek out your primary vet prior to making an appointment for bodywork. Bodywork is also a contraindication for animals currently diagnosed with cancer due to the increase in blood flow associated with bodywork. Please alert your practitioner before your appointment if your pet has been diagnosed with cancer.
Fascia 101: The Unsung Hero of Movement
What is fascia, and why does it matter for my dog?
Fascia is a thin web-like layer of connective tissue that surrounds and supports everything in the body—muscles, bones, organs, even nerves. Think of it like a full-body suit under the skin that holds everything together and helps things move smoothly. When fascia becomes tight or restricted (from injury, overuse, or stress), it can limit mobility and cause discomfort, even if the muscles or joints seem fine.
How is working with fascia different from massage or chiropractic care?
Great question! Most people think of bodywork as massage (muscles) or chiropractic care (the spine), but fascial work focuses on the connective tissue in between. The techniques I use are more subtle and sustained, targeting deep restrictions that may not show up right away but can have a huge impact on your dog’s movement, posture, and performance.
Can fascia really affect how my dog moves?
Absolutely. Healthy fascia helps your dog move freely, recover faster, and stay comfortable. When it’s tight or dehydrated, it can cause compensation patterns, stiffness, and even behavioral changes. That’s why so much of what I do focuses on releasing fascial tension—it’s often the missing link in long-term mobility and injury prevention.
Hello, I’m Katlyn
CANINE OSTEOPATH & BODYWORK PRACTITIONER FOUNDER OF RETRIEVING WELLNESS
Welcome to Retrieving Wellness, where wagging tails are met with compassionate hands and a whole lot of heart. My love for animals isn’t just a passion – it’s the driving force behind everything I do. Beginning with the immense transformation I’ve seen in my own best friend, to the countless tails I’ve seen wag with comfort after a session, each moment has reinforced my commitment to canine well-being and holistic health.
With a dedication to ongoing learning, I am continuously seeking out opportunities to refine my skills and expand my knowledge when it comes to the canine body. With each and every opportunity allowing me the ability to provide gentle, effective, and individual care to working dogs, athletes, and everyday canine companions.
Beyond the professional realm, I’m just like you. A devoted dog mom who understands the bond we share with our 4-legged friends. That’s why I treat each and every dog I meet as if they were my own. With compassion, respect, and unwavering dedication.
PROFESSIONAL DESIGNATIONS
Canine Osteopath (Int´l DipCO), – London College of Animal Osteopathy
WEBB For Pets Practitioner – Whole Energy Body Balance
Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist (CPCN) – Feed Real Institute
Certified Animal Cold Laser Therapist (CACLT) – Holistic Animal Studies
B. Arts in Psychology, Animal Behaviour – York, University
OUR SERVICES
How Can I Help?
Initial Bodywork Assessment
The initial assessment is designed to gather comprehensive information about your dog’s overall health, behaviour, and physical condition.
This process includes a physical examination, movement analysis, and a thorough inquiry into your dog’s medical history. This assessment serves as the foundation for tailoring an effective and safe bodywork plan to address the specific needs of your dog.
If your dog has gone longer than 8 months without a session, please book an initial appointment.
Starting at $100 CAD**
Follow Up Session
A follow-up appointment refers to a scheduled session that occurs after the initial assessment or a previous treatment. Its primary purpose is to assess the progress of the dog, address any changes in their condition, and make necessary adjustments to the bodywork plan.
During the follow-up, I will re-evaluate your dog’s behaviour, mobility, and overall well-being, using the information gathered to refine and optimize the ongoing bodywork sessions. This proactive approach ensures a tailored and effective care continuum, promoting your dog’s physical health and comfort over time.
Starting at $85 CAD**
Red Light Laser Therapy
Discover the healing power of red light laser therapy – a gentle, yet powerful tool for addressing your dog’s injuries. This non-invasive technique is used to alleviate pain, promote tissue repair, and restore mobility.
If you are interested in adding red light therapy to your appointment, please note during booking.
Add $20 CAD to appointment fee.
IMPORTANT | PLEASE READ
** Travel fees beyond 30km may apply. Travel fees based on $0.72 per km over 30km, one way. **
We require 24 hours notice for any cancellations. Because a spot is reserved specifically for you and your pet, please alert us 24 hours ahead of your appointment for any rescheduling needs or the full amount of your appointment may be invoiced.
Bringing Comfort Home
As a mobile practitioner, I travel directly to your home or location, which means appointment times can fill up quickly—especially during peak seasons and event weekends.
To help you stay ahead, I’ve created an Availability Calendar so you can view open dates and upcoming commitments at a glance. While you can’t book directly through the calendar, please let me know 1-2 preferred dates when you reach out!
How to Book
Once you find a date that works, just send me a message to reserve your spot. I’ll confirm availability and get you scheduled!
FAQ’s
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does My Dog Need Bodywork?
Signs your dog may benefit from bodywork or osteopathy:
- Reduced performance in sport or training
- Difficulty getting up, stiffness, or uneven gait
- Post-injury recovery or chronic conditions like arthritis
- Behavioural changes linked to discomfort
How to Prepare for a Session?
Ensure your dog has had a light meal (not immediately before the session).
- Provide a calm, quiet space for the session.
- Bring along any medical history or concerns.
- A walk beforehand as they will likely be tired after their session.
What to Expect After a Session?
- Some dogs may experience mild soreness for 24-48 hours as their body adjusts.
- Increased relaxation and mobility.
- Increased thirst & urination.
- Follow-up exercises or stretches may be recommended.
NUTRITION FOR YOUR CANINE
Support From the Inside Out
PREMIUM JOINT SUPPLEMENTS FOR ACTIVE & AGING DOGS
In addition to our hands-on bodywork and osteopathy services, we offer a select line of high-quality joint supplements designed to support mobility, flexibility, and long-term joint health. Whether your dog is a hardworking athlete, an aging companion, or recovering from an injury, these natural products can help reduce inflammation, ease discomfort, and keep them moving with ease.
Each product is carefully vetted for quality, effectiveness, and transparency—no fillers, no fluff, just targeted support your dog can truly benefit from.
Our Favourite Canadian Brands
Collagen Peptides - $29.95
These grass fed Bovine Collagen Peptides maintain and repair cartilage, ligaments and tendons making it the perfect addition to aging or active dog meals.
Green Lipped Mussels - $39.95
Omega Three with DPA - $39.95
Jump for JOYnts - $32.99
Ready to Add Joint Support to Your Dog’s Routine?
Your supplements will be delivered at your next appointment or can be arranged for local pickup in Newmarket.
Client Reviews
We can't say enough good things about Retrieving Wellness! Our dog was struggling, limping on two limbs, and thanks to her incredible skill and care, he's now walking comfortably again. We are beyond grateful—her expertise has truly changed our dog's life. We honestly don't know what we would have done without her. If you're looking for an osteopath who is compassionate, knowledgeable, and genuinely committed to helping, we strongly recommend Katlyn!
– Anita P.
I can’t say enough great things about Retrieving Wellness! The care and expertise katlyn provides for dogs is truly exceptional. My pup was experiencing stiffness and discomfort, but after just a few sessions, I noticed a huge improvement in mobility and overall well-being. Katlyn is incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and compassionate, ensuring every dog feels comfortable and relaxed. It’s clear she is passionate about what she does Highly recommend for any pet parent looking to improve their dog’s health and happiness!
– Maddison M.
Katlyn is a wonderful human being who really loves and excels at her job. She will go above and beyond for your fur baby and always tries to do her very best. She did amazing things for our senior baby girl, and Dolly was always so excited to see Katlyn at our door. We would highly recommend her for her services and her all around wonderful humanness.
– Sarah B.
Cooper and Riley have both benefited greatly from Katlyn’s attention to detail and knowledge. Helping them feel their best both at the races and at home.
– Amanda V.
I met Katlyn at a few dog events throughout York Region and after she completed a mini assessment on my dog, I knew that I wanted to book an appointment with her. I’m SO happy to have booked an initial assessment because in one hour, I already noticed a HUGE change in my dog. Katlyn is FANTASTIC and I would highly highly highly recommend her 💛
– Lauren B.
Get In Touch
Have questions about services, supplements, or which wellness option is best for your dog? I’d love to chat! Whether you’re ready to book or just exploring options, I’m here to help you make the best choice for your dog’s health and performance.
Your inquiry will be addressed within the next 48 hours. Thank you for your patience!
Join the Pack!
Want exclusive tips, behind-the-scenes peeks, event updates, and wellness info straight to your inbox? Join the Retrieving Wellness Pack and stay connected with all things canine health, performance, and holistic care.