It is not surprising for dogs to be viewed as man’s best friends because these animals have proven their worth as affectionate, loyal and protective companions that have also provided the family with an unending source of joy. There is no doubt that dogs have given pet owners invaluable companionship thus a massage is the least an owner can do to pamper the pet. A dog is a social animal that would love to be petted and to receive attention from its master. Dogs too will get the same benefits humans get from massage.
It was proven that dog massage have improved the health of dogs suffering from a variety of medical conditions. The services of a well trained massage therapist are necessary if the objective is to improve the health of a dog with a serious medical concern. Aging dogs weighed down with joint and muscle pains will be given a new leash to healthier life as regular massage improves blood circulation and better functioning of all the systems of the body.
Physical and emotional stress are achieved when a dog is massaged. The comforting touch of an owner’s hands calms a highly dog stressed dog during a thunderstorm or during a 4th of July fireworks display. Most importantly massaging the dog would also be a good opportunity to bond better with the pet.
A pet owner should not be daunted with the task of massaging the pet as it can be learned . In spite of the fact that dogs love to be petted, other individuals not accustomed to being touched would not enjoy a massage. Dogs that hate to be petted and touched are mostly mature dogs adopted from animal shelters. To massage a small dog, you simply let the pet lie in your lap. Bigger dogs though would need a firm surface like a padded table, a couch or a cushioned floor. Get the dog accustomed to long slow strokes from the head to the tip of the tail. Using light pressure, gently scratch the dog behind the ears, the cheeks and the chin taking extra care in rubbing the area between the eyes.
On large dogs, you can use the heel of the hands to make circular motions on the neck. Massage the shoulders and the chest with circular motions using the heel of the hand. In smaller dogs, use three fingers and follow the same path. The stroking must follow the direction of hair growth. On the inside of the leg, the stroking should be against the direction of hair growth.
Read more about how to massage your dog and if dogs can have apples at Sarah’s Dogs.
