From time to time, we all should have some time for rest and relaxation. Many people turn to massage therapy for the solution. But did anyone know that massage therapy can be beneficial to dogs? Yes, it can.
Like their human counterparts, dogs also have physical and emotional stress in addition to being very active. Massage therapy for dogs is beneficial in many different ways:
-Relaxing Purposes: This type of therapy is excellent for reducing the prescription medications that are very harmful to dogs. Also, some dogs are energetic and may be going through a very difficult circumstance that calming down is close to impossible.
-Body Functioning: Massage therapy will bring relief to the dog’s body, as in boosting up the blood circulation as well as the oxygen. The waste in the body is eliminated much better and more effective.
-Rehabilitation Benefits: Of course, as dogs become older, arthritis is more likely to become an issue. If owners do not want to feed their companions any arthritis medication, massage therapy is the way to go. This will aid in the alleviation of pain and stiffness, just to name a few. Some dog massage therapy use these methods after surgery or even an injury.
Of course, dog massage therapy is not limited to the licensed massage therapists. Dog owners can easily learn how to perform these techniques on their own pets. Here are a few techniques to perform on dogs:
-Dogs should be massaged behind the ears in a circular manner. The circles should be small since it is the ear region. This should be performed with the thumb and index finger on the ears border.
-As fare as the neck goes, knead this body part in a gentle position. Move the head with one head on the neck’s top. The remaining hand should be on the bottom and move it lightly and gradually.
-Shoulders and legs: The muscles should be massaged and be repetitive on the opposiie shoulder. The same should be applied to the hind legs, putting on some pressure. Like the rest of the dog’s body parts, go slowly and gently; use long strokes with the fingers and the whole hand.
-Tail: Begin at the top of the tail and massage in a circular position at least five times in each direction.
-Make sure the dog hears encouraging words and some affection, such as a hug.
Although dog massage therapy is very simple, there are some precautions that should be considered. If the dog is suffering from an inflammation condition, such as arthritis, then the owner should seek advice from a holistic veterinarian and/or certified dog massage therapist prior to beginning these techniques.
Source:
http://www.natural-pet-essentials.com/dog-massage.html