Why Canine Massage?
The benefits of massage for dogs (and humans) are too numerous to list here, but I’ve included the most relevant:
Sources: Companion Animal MassageTM “Canine Basic Massage Therapy Distance Program: Part I Introduction to Massage”, Marguerite Chip-Matthews, http://www.companionanimalmassage.com;
“Utilization of Veterinary Rehabilitation”, L.L. McCauley (TOPS Veterinary Rehabilitation, Animal Rehabilitation Institute, Grayslake, IL, USA), http://www.ivis.org/proceedings/NAVC/2006/SAE/015.asp?LA=1;
“Non-Pharmacologic Pain Relief in Sporting Dogs”, Tamara Grubb, DVM, MS, Diplomate ACVA Pfizer Animal Health, Sedation and Pain Management (Uniontown, WA), http://www.ivis.org/proceedings/navc/2006/SAE/491.asp?LA=1
Don’t let that mellow look fool you. BC “Rocky” knows exactly what every human and dog at the Travis Agility Group (TAG) trial is up to at all times--even mid-massage!
Photo credit: Dick Van Hooser Photography.
Tracy J. Dulock
Licensed Massage Therapist
Certified Canine Massage Practitioner
(254) 498-1158
Massage is not a substitute for qualified veterinary care. If you have any concerns about your companion’s health, please consult a licensed Veterinarian.
Other Stuff:
v Satisfies a dog’s need for a caring, nurturing touch, improves their sociability and eases canine handling;
v Enhances the immune system by increasing circulation of lymph which gathers toxins and other wastes from the body;
vReleases endorphins, which naturally decrease stress, tension, anxiety and depression;
vMoves out lactic acid, a waste product of the muscles;
vRelaxes and softens tired, overused and injured muscles;
vImproves posture, balance, flexibility and range of motion;
vImproves circulation, which moves oxygen and nutrients into
tissues and vital organs and improves muscle tone;
vHelps athletic dogs at all levels prepare for, and recover from,
competition;
vReduces the heart rate and lowers blood pressure;
vImproves rehabilitation after surgery or injuries by reducing
pain and swelling, fostering faster healing of muscles and
reducing the formation of excess scar tissue. Also helps more
quickly rid anesthesia from the body;
vExercises and stretches weak or atrophied muscles—especially
important for dogs that are unable to do this for themselves;
vBoosts red blood count;
v#1 reason: Most dogs thoroughly enjoy the massage experience!
