Therapeutic massage on dogs has similar positive effects and benefits it has on people:
- Improves blood circulation
- Drainage of toxins
- Reduces muscle tension
- Stress and anxiety reduction
- Stimulates their metabolism (This helps in weight loss)
- Reduces blood pressure
- Helps in the healing process after an injury or a surgery
- Helps in regaining and keeping good muscle tone
- Relief of chronic pain
- Helps to increase flexibility and keeps joints healthy
Many veterinarians and scientific researchers agree that regular sessions of therapeutic massage adapted to the needs of the animal do improve and maintain their health.
Growing dogs:
The rapid growth of their bones and muscles can cause pain and discomfort. They are generally hyperactive and fearless. Massage can soothe their pain, have a calming effect and help prevent injuries. It also helps them get used to being touched, a positive when the time comes to start trimming their nails or visit their vet.
Working dogs:
These dogs pound the pavement for hours, pull heavy loads, jump, search through debris and accomplish very precise tasks without letting themselves be distracted. They are the guide dogs, police dogs, rescue dogs, drug/explosive/arson detection dogs and sleigh dogs. Massage can target many different ailments here, from chronic muscle tension to helping the recovery after an injury. It can also treat muscular compensation resulting from a guide dog who's always having to be positioned on the right side of his owner for example. Non treated, those muscular tensions can provoke discomfort, pain and even problems to the bone structure. Massage therapy can lengthen the period of time of service of all the working dogs.
Older dogs:
Older dogs often become less active and more prone to injuries. Massage strengthens their immune system, stimulates their metabolism, alleviates pain from age-related conditions such as arthritis, rebuild and maintain muscle tone and in keeping their joints healthy.
Shy dogs:
They’ve often been adopted and sometimes the previous owner has mistreated them. They have a difficult time getting used to their new home. Massage therapy and PATIENCE can calm these anxious and fearful dogs and help them regain trust in humans. I can attest to that myself after visiting a shelter as a volunteer massage therapist.
Dogs in rehabilitation:
IN AGREEMENT WITH YOUR DOG’S VETERINARIAN, massage can help accelerate the healing process after an injury or a surgery. It has a positive impact on muscle atrophy and muscular compensation as well as in helping in preventing and eliminating adhesions.
Performance dogs:
These athletes compete in events like agility and have to be kept in top shape. Pre/post competition and regular massages help to prevent injuries, keep their muscles healthy and increase flexibility and range of motion.