DOGS LOVE A MASSAGE TOO!

If you have ever enjoyed the benefits of getting a massage, and recall how terrific you felt afterwards, wouldn’t you love to have your dog experience a massage too? Dogs need massages too! They don’t have the ability to reach and apply pressure to a lot of their heavily used muscles, like their neck, back and legs. This will help them live a healthier life,and prevent future joint problems/arthritis.

Therapeutic canine massage is typically performed by a trained professional who has experience working with dogs. The massage session usually takes place in a quiet, comfortable environment, and the dog is encouraged to relax and feel comfortable throughout the session.

The benefits of canine therapeutic massage include:

Improved circulation: Massage can help to increase blood and lymphatic flow, which can improve the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the body's tissues and help to remove waste products.

Reduced muscle tension: Massage can help to release tight and sore muscles, which can improve mobility and reduce the risk of injury.

Pain relief: Massage can help to reduce pain by releasing endorphins, which are the body's natural painkillers.

Stress reduction: Massage can help to reduce stress and anxiety in dogs, promoting relaxation and improving overall well-being.

Improved range of motion: Massage can help to increase flexibility and range of motion, which can be especially beneficial for older dogs or those with mobility issues.

Enhanced immune function: Massage can stimulate the immune system, helping to boost the body's natural defenses against illness and disease.

There are many types of dogs and situations where therapeutic massage is appropriate..

Active lifestyles: dogs who spend their weekend romping around the dog park or hiking with their people can experience discomfort just like their human counterparts. Massage Therapy can help alleviate pain and promote increased flexibility so they’ll be ready for their next adventure

Canine Athletes: Working, performing, and athletic dogs use their muscles to the point of soreness, though they rarely show their discomfort. Providing regular massage for these dogs will help relieve their soreness while maintaining resiliency in their muscles. Regular Canine Massage Therapy can help reduce injury in performance dogs.

Recovery & rehabilitation: Dogs who have undergone surgical procedures or who struggle with chronic disease can benefit greatly from massage from a rehabilitative approach. The massage techniques may focus on relief of pain and inflammation, reducing fluid buildup, supporting the immune system and stabilizing joints.

Anxiety and transitions: Dogs who suffer from anxiety or are adjusting to changes in their environment (adoption, moving, new family members) can benefit from massage therapy to promote relaxation and support the immune system. Dogs who are anxious about touch sometimes benefit the most by releasing the tension they hold in their bodies. Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation. Massage provides a positive touch enhancing their sense of wellbeing.

Senior and hospice: As dogs grow older and begin to slow down it’s important to find ways to help them move their bodies. Massage can help stimulate muscles and encourage fluid movement throughout tissues. Massage can also be a welcome source of stimulation for dogs who otherwise aren’t very active. Massage helps to break the pain cycle, improve absorption of nutrients and encourage cell regeneration. Helping our seniors maintain suppleness and range of motion will allow them more ease of movement.

Every dog: All dogs can enjoy the benefits of massage therapy as it offers a wide array of positive effects for the whole body and spirit including supporting healthy functioning of the immune system, skin and coat muscles and joints along with digestive system and nervous system support. Gentle touch is important to the emotional well-being of all our companions.

It's important to note that therapeutic canine massage should only be performed by a trained professional who has experience working with dogs and who understands their unique anatomy and physiology. Additionally, it's important to obtain approval from a veterinarian before starting any new treatment or therapy for your dog.

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Alison Martin is the Founder of Animal Soul Connection. Email: alison@animalsoulconnection.com or visit www.animalsoulconnection.com