Discover How A Dog Massage Can Ease The Pain Of Canine Arthritis
Dog Massage Tips And Techniques
A dog massage is considered to be very helpful in treating Arthritis in dogs, and Veterinarians are starting to prescribe it alongside conventional medications. It improves blood circulation to the area being treated, and it increases joint flexibility. Also, it just plain feels good.
Although many people can call themselves a dog masseur, make sure you check your masseur's qualifications and experience. It's important that only someone who has been trained and is experienced in dog massage actually performs any deep tissue massage on your dog. This avoids making your dog's problem worse.
You too can spend time giving your buddy a dog massage. He'll enjoy it, and it will enhance the connection between you. Evidence suggests that touch has very positive effects on the body - it lowers the amount of cortisol (a stress hormone) in your blood, and also increases levels of dopamine (a feel good chemical) in the brain. It has the same effect in dogs.
Stroking and massaging your dog has other health benefits. You'll be more likely to notice any abnormalities, such as skin rashes or lumps that appear suddenly. That way you can start treatment sooner rather than later.
There Are Three Main Techniques Of Dog Massage Therapy:
First, there is effleurage, the slow strokes with your open hand that warm up tissues and increase blood flow to the area. When you are doing this, make sure you have one hand contacting your dog's body at all times. So, before you lift a hand, make sure the other hand is touching your dog.
The other techniques are drumming, also known as percussion, using your fingers or your open hand. and petrissage, or kneading the muscles. You'll find your dog may prefer one technique over the others, and that's fine. It's important he enjoys his massage.
Do you massage your dog's whole body? You can, or you may choose to specifically focus on certain areas. These areas can be sore spots, or they may be acupressure points. Acupuncturists take the view that illness is caused by blockage of the body's energy flow through its channels. These channels can become blocked at acupressure points, and it is thought that massaging these areas unblocks the channels, and restores good health.
You really only need to spend fifteen minutes massaging your dog. If he enjoys it, gradually increase the time you spend with him. You'll start to notice what he enjoys, and what isn't so pleasant for him.
Start your massage at his front end, and use circular movements of your fingertips to massage his temples. Use long slow strokes down his neck, and firmly knead the muscles. Again, use your fingertips to press along each side of his spinal column to relax any tight muscles. Effleurage can be used on the sides of his torso and also down his legs. You can finish up by firmly kneading his limb muscles.
If you'd like to improve your pet massage skills, you may want to take a course to learn deep tissue techniques. This will not only be good for your dog, but may also lead to a new career for you.
Above Article - Courtesy of Dr. Susan Wright, Staff Veterinarian for DogFenceDIY.com
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A dog massage is considered to be very helpful in treating Arthritis in dogs, and Veterinarians are starting to prescribe it alongside conventional medications. It improves blood circulation to the area being treated, and it increases joint flexibility. Also, it just plain feels good.
