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Dog massage includes a variety of techniques -- some centuries old and others quite new. It has been used to calm show dogs, to relieve pain in working dogs, and to increase energy and focus in agility dogs. Now it is available to improve the quality of your pet’s life.
Massage is part of a complete wellness program for your dog. A massage will relax muscles, invigorate circulation, and stimulate key acupressure points. Massage does not substitute for veterinary care, but complements it. Regular massage can often bring important changes in your pet’s condition to your attention so that medical advice can be sought before the problem becomes advanced.
Dogs of All Ages Can Benefit From Massage
Puppies & Young Dogs
- Helps them accept handling by vets, groomers, etc.
- Improves socialization
- Increases trust of humans
- Eases tension of new growth stages
Adult Dogs
- Maintains optimum wellness
- Slows developing problems of old age
- Detects early changes that may signal injury or disease
Elderly Dogs
- Helps maintain mobility
- Stimulates circulation
- Reduces pain
Why do dogs need massage?
Dogs today live in much better conditions, but they are often bored and underexercised. Massage can relax tension while also stimulating both mind and body. It is especially helpful as our animals’ life spans lengthen. Our world has changed -- and our pets’ needs have changed with it.
Some benefits of dog massage:
- Comforts tired muscles & relieves pain
- Increases circulation
- Strengthens body by stimulating muscles
- Maintains & restores flexibility
- Increases dog’s self-esteem & lessens behavioral issues
- Enhances body awareness
- Gains acceptance of touch, especially to paws
- Increases caretaker’s awareness of changes in animal
- Empowers owners to work with & help their pets
- Enhances bonding & relationship with humans
- Gives back to dogs something they can’t do for themselves
- Increased circulation, which can improve a dog's health.
- Earlier awareness of lumps and unusual growths.
- Deeper attachment between dog and owner, allowing them to bond further.
- Extended praise for the dog.
- Increased acceptance of handling by the dog.
- Stress and heart rate reduction for the owner.
- Reduced stress by lowering the dog's heart rate and providing a quiet, relaxing experience.
Parts of this article taken from:Ann Tarvin learned her dog massage skills from canine massage pioneer Jonathan Rudinger at the PetMassage Training and Research Institute in Toledo, Ohio. She holds Practitioner and Instructor Level Certificates in Dog Massage and also a Certificate in WaterWork for dogs. She is a member of the International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork.
Consult your dog's veterinarian before beginning a massage program.If working with a fragile dog or one with limited mobility due to a joint problem, an injury, or surgery, knowledge of canine anatomy and biomechanics is essential, says Carla Campbell, a Seeing Eye graduate and canine masseuse in Menlo Park, Calif. In those situations, it really does pay to call in a pro, she advises.
Just as pleasant scents and relaxing music contribute a positive effect during human massage, so is the same for your dog.
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