Massaging your dog – more than just relaxation!

12:45 pm in Books, Interesting by Véronique

Petting your dog is great, but massaging your dog is even better for him, and just as much fun for you!

Why would you massage a dog?
- for pleasure,
- for recuperation after vigorous exercise (running, agility course, hiking, etc.),
- for recovery after a surgery or an injury,
- for much needed relaxation for stressed out dogs,
- for a deeper relationship through the power of touch: Your dog will be able to let go completely and trust you while you literally take matter into your own hands.

What are the physical benefits of a massage?

Manipulating muscles through a massage increase blood circulation through the muscle fibers, which allows the removal of stagnant waste products. Toxins are often stuck in the body, and their accumulation limits body movements, increases stiffness and might even result in injuries. Massages carry fresh clean blood full of oxygen and nutriments through all neglected areas, for a clean and healthy body!

To be beneficial, massages must be done in a certain way. Here is a great book on dog massages:Canine Massage in Plain English. It has a step-by-step approach, and a lot of pictures, which make it a very easy read for less reading and more massaging.

You will read about:
- the different strokes and the different pressures that you can use,
- a full-body sequence that covers all important zones, and
- advices to ensure your dog is comfortable with your touch and is able to relax and enjoy the massages.

Have fun!