Yes, Rocky was a real dog, and Rocky's Retreat grew out of the inspiration and desire to keep him as healthy as possible for as long as possible. In early 2006, Sherri Cappabianca finally acted on what had become a passion by studying canine massage with Northwest School of Animal Massage. After completing her certification, she began her business, Rocky's Retreat, named in honor of the special soul who started her on this path. Since then, her practice has evolved to include Reiki, Acupressure studied through Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute, and Aromatherapeutic Healing through the School of Essential Balance, UK.

Sherri is also the author of "Healthy Dogs, Your Loving Touch: Acupressure Massage for Your Dog," a book written especially for dog owners who want to be active participants in their dog's health and well-being.

She believes in a balanced approach to health that includes high quality nutrition, exercise, companionship & regular maintenance bodywork.

"The focus of my work is to get animals back to a point of equilibrium so that they can heal naturally."

Sherri offers her services to dogs throughout the Central Florida area. Sessions are held in the convenience of your home or facility of your choosing, which provides a familiar and stress free environment for healing. She also offers private education and regular workshops that teach the acupressure massage techniques featured in her book, all designed to help you help your animal stay healthy and happy, and live longer.

Her qualifications include over 1000 hours of certified training in the following areas:

• Small Animal Massage - Northwest School of Animal Massage. Animal behavior, massage techniques, canine anatomy, physiology, kinesiology, and hands on training.
• Small Animal Acupressure - Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute. Comprehensive curriculum includes Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupressure concepts, canine anatomy and physiology, hands on clinical training, plus numerous case studies.
• Animal Aromatherapeutic Healing - School of Essential Balance, UK. Extensive program consists of Traditional Chinese Medicine concepts pertaining to essential oils, chemistry, canine anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, hands on training, plus many case studies.
• Reiki - 6th generation Reiki Master, in the Direct Lineage of Usui, Hayashi, Takata, Gray, Rosenthal.
• Pet First Aid/CPR with the American Red Cross.
• Member of the International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork. (IAAMB)