Rub-a-Dog-Dog: Four Sources for Canine Massage

410-379-0869, http://www.handsonhorsesmassage.com.

Pawsitive Touch

Owner Tomoko Kawasumi makes it clear she's a teacher -- not a provider -- of massage therapy and animal shiatsu. But she's definitely hands-on when it comes to holistic health for animals. Classes for canine massage are held in the warehouse of her other Falls Church business, the Organic Doggy Kitchen. Her philosophy: "Dogs communicate through body language, so when you speak to them with your hands, massage is a way to tell them how much you love them."

After attending a dog massage workshop, Kawasumi quizzed the workshop leader, Tails of Olde Towne owner Joyce Tischer, about the canine massage profession and was soon off to the PetMassage Institute (yes, there really is such a place) in Ohio to study with founder Jonathan Rudinger. Kawasumi encourages owners to sign up for at least three classes. Prices range from $45 to $90.

1061B W. Broad St., Falls Church, 703-599-5330, http://www.pawsitivetouch.com. To sign up for classes, call or e-mail info@pawsitivetouch.com.

Tails of Olde Towne

Already home to more human spas than you can shake a pair of padded slippers at, Old Town Alexandria is also the spot for Spot to get his special treatment.Tails of Olde Towne, owned by Joyce Tischer, who offers both massage classes and therapy, is the talk of the local doggie happy hour. The treatment room is more Gymboree than Canyon Ranch, thanks to the no-slip, primary-color mats on the floor. And, like preschool, all the good little boys and girls get a treat before they go home: a crunchy cookie and some healthy glucosamine chews. (Tischer is also a child psychologist.)

There's a nonscented candle to "diffuse the doggie smell," says Tischer, who plays songs by the diva of massage therapy music: Enya. Apparently it doesn't make the dogs howl. A dog-owner pair pays $45 for a group class.

311 N. Washington St., Alexandria, 703-768-0500, http://www.tailsofoldetowne.com.