Dog Massage Tips and Tricks

July 1, 10:34 PMSalt Lake Dog Scene ExaminerMichelle Tarkeshian

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Dogs can suffer from physical and emotional stress just like humans. Such as: separation anxiety, arthritis, loud noise phobia, sore muscles, temperament problems, and others. There are many benefits that come from massaging your dog, either at home or professionally.

Benefits Include
1. Relaxes and calms your dog.
2. Soothes sore muscles.
3. Relieves pain from arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other ailments.
4. Releases endorphins that work as natural painkillers.
5. Increases the bond between you and your dog.
6. Helps maintain the immune system.
7. Loosens tight muscles and increases flexibility and range of motion.
8. Accelerates healing after surgery or other injuries.
9. Increases circulation and lymphatic drainage to improve health.
10. Increases bone density and builds muscle mass.
11. For younger dogs a massage may help them learn to get comfortable with people touching their paws and ears. A full body massage can help build their immune system.
12. For older dogs a massage may help relieve chronic aches and pains.

At Home Dog Massage
Invision the setting of a perfect massage? You're laying down on a warm surface in a dimly lit room, and there is a wonderful aroma in the air with music playing softly in the background. You can mimic the things that help you relax during a massage into your dog's massage. Choose an area of your home where you and your dog can relax and be free of distractions. Make them comfortable either on the floor, couch, or bed and use warm towels or blankets. Dim the lights and play some music softly in the background. If you want to try something different try using aromatherapy candles or oils. Always speak to your dog in a soft voice, and encourage them to relax for the massage.

Everyone has different techniques they like to use for massages, but it is important not to push to hard, or pull in the wrong direction. Doing so could cause your dog pain, and cause damage to their body. Your dog's safety is #1 so make sure to always be gentle, and if your dog resists don't force them. How often and how long depends on you and your dog. Each dog is different and they may prefer some techniques over others. You'll learn these the more often you give your dog a massage.

Techniques to Try at Home
1. Start at the top of the head and slowly stroke down to the base of the tail and back up. Instead of stopping at the base of the tail you can stroke down the tail as well. Make sure it's a soft but firm grip.
2. Gently rub the neck in circular motions and behind the ears with your forefingers.
3. Gently grasp the loose skin around their neck, ears, and back between your fingers and massage it over the muscles using a soothing rhythmic motion.
4. Stroke the throat and chin.
5. Massage the chest, buttocks, and armpits gently.
6. Massage their legs down to their paws, and firmly squeeze a few times.

Professional Dog Massage
Technique applications vary from dog to dog and from therapist to therapist. Dog massage therapists do have an advantage over doing a massage at home because they have professional and schooling experience. They know all the muscles and movements that will help your dog the most. They also have a wide variety of technique applications to use. Consult your veterinarian to see if a professional massage would benefit your dog.