The Healing Touch: The Advantages of Therapeutic Massage for Your Dog
If you’ve ever had a massage or are receiving massage regularly for a health condition, you probably know just how powerful this modality is for recovery and wellbeing. Although massage has been around for quite some time, it may come as a surprise to know that pet massage has been used as early as the 1800’s. There is also some evidence of animal massage in ancient China, Egypt, and India.
Other than the fact that it just feels great, is there another reason behind massage for your dog? We’re glad you asked! The team at the Whole Pet Vet Hospital and Wellness Center is here to explain.
What is Therapeutic Massage for Pets?
Canine massage therapy is much more than the “pats” we give our dogs. This is a field of animal health that focuses on therapeutic touch as a means to encourage better health. Certified animal massage therapists go through rigorous training and education in the areas of physiology, anatomy, and massage techniques. Some therapists receive additional training that is tailored to one or more specific species, as well as maintain a specialized focus on health or behavioral conditions.
Many massage therapists work in places that are high stress for pets, such as animal shelters, or with working animals like greyhounds and horses (used for racing) and service animals. Once they’ve completed the allocated hours of training, these professionals go on to work in animal hospitals, veterinary clinics, zoos, and other facilities that house animals.
The Benefits of Pet Massage
Along with the overall enjoyment of being massaged, dogs experience several benefits with this treatment, including:
- Reduces pain associated with inflammation and stiffness of the joints and muscles
- Promotes blood and lymph circulation
- Increases immunity
- Improves muscle tone and flexibility
- Reduces anxiety and stress
- Promotes faster recovery from illness or surgery
- Greater energy and alertness
- Improves socialization and trust, as well as strengthens the human-animal bond
Massage for Your Dog? You Bet!
While massage is often focused on canines with underlying health conditions, massage can be an incredible complementary, holistic treatment for your pet’s complete wellness. Through massage, your pet can grow in confidence and adaptability to new experiences. Massage also encourages relaxation, which can help calm and placate animals who are otherwise boisterous or have difficulty sitting still.
During a professional massage session, we can even discuss at-home massage techniques.
Would you like to learn more about the advantages of massage for your dog? Please call us! We’d love to have your four-legged friend come in for a soothing, healing session.