Dog massage has become increasingly popular as people realize that
animals can benefit from massage as much as humans do. You can take your dog to a professional pet massage therapist, a good idea if the animal has a specific issue that needs to be addressed. However, learning how to massage your dog can help the two of you bond and lets you nurture your animal companion at home.
Canine massage
therapy is especially good for older dogs or ones recovering from
injury. Some of the many benefits include:
- Improves the quality of movement by relaxing muscles and supporting the health and function of joints
- Stimulates circulation
- Improves coordination and athletic agility
- Helps release restrictions such as adhesions and knots
- Helps reduce the risk of injuries
- Relaxes the animal, providing benefits such as lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and better immune system function
How to Massage Your Dog
The first thing to know about massaging your dog is to listen and never do anything to aggravate her. Here’s a basic massage:
- Lay your dog on her side. Stroke her lightly and gently in the direction of hair growth until she starts to relax. Keep one hand on your dog at all times, using your other hand to massage slowly down over your dog’s head, face, body, legs, tail, and outside of the legs.
- Gently massage up the inside of your dog’s legs, against the hair growth.
- Find tight spots in the muscles and use a firm circular motion on them. You can also gently squeeze and then release the muscle.
For more dog massage techniques, see Healing Touch for Dogs: The Proven Massage Program or Acupressure for Dogs.
You can also use essential oils with dogs.
How to Give Dog Massage Video
Canine Massage Schools
Abundant Life Canine Massage, Sarasota, Florida
Doggone U at Bancroft School of Massage Therapy, Worchester, Masschusetts
Brandenburg Massage Therapy, Martins Ferry, Ohio
Canis Bodywork, online and various physical locationss
Equissage, Round Hill, Virginia
Holistic Animal Courses and E-Training for Dogs offer online courses.
Ojai School of Canine Massage, Ojai, California
Lang Institute for Canine Massage, Loveland, Colorado
Northwest School of Animal Massage, Fall City, Washington
PetMassage™ Training and Research Institute, Toledo, Ohio
Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure & Massage, Carbondale, Colorado
Also, see the International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork.
Photo Credit: msgrafixx / 123RF Stock Photo