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Close your eyes and envision the perfect relaxing setting. There might be the sound of ocean waves, the scent of lavender wafting through a dimly lit room. Just when you lie down and make yourself comfortable, the door quietly opens and in walks a massage therapist. You feel the pressure on your back, the rolling of the muscles and your mind immediately begins to drift away and let go of the every day stresses that plague you.
I have two dogs. One of them, Kenzie is quite friendly and very laid back. But her sister, Shelby, well, to say she is anxious would be an understatement. I often wonder about ways of getting her to relax. Well, believe it or not, the same things that relax me would help Shelby.
Dog massage is a growing industry that pups like Shelby can absolutely benefit from. Whether your pet is anxious (like my girl), has arthritis, is afraid of loud noises, has hip problems or maybe had a very active day and is a little sore, massage can help your dog relax and release any discomfort they might have.
Benefits of Dog Massage Include
- Relaxes and calms your dog.
- Soothes sore muscles.
- Relieves pain from arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other ailments.
- Releases endorphins that work as natural painkillers.
- Increases the bond between you and your dog.
- Helps maintain the immune system.
- Loosens tight muscles and increases flexibility and range of motion.
- Accelerates healing after surgery or other injuries.
- Increases circulation and lymphatic drainage to improve health.
- Increases bone density and builds muscle mass.
- 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.
- For older dogs a massage may help relieve chronic aches and pains.
The At-Home Dog Massage
When performing a massage at home, try to choose an area of your home where there will be little distractions for your pet. Make them comfortable on a bed or on warm or cool towels (depending on the season) on the floor. Dim the lights, play some relaxing music or sound effects and use a soft voice when speaking.
When you begin massaging your dog, remember not to push or pull to hard. Doing so can cause discomfort and even damage their body. Safety should be your #1 priority so be sure to look for clues in your pets body language. If they are resisting the massage, forcing them will only be traumatic.
If your dog is relaxing into the setting, start at the top of his head and stroke down along his spine to the base of his tail and back up. When you are back at the head, rub around the ears in circular motions. Gently roll the loose skin around his neck, ears and back between your fingers and massage it over the muscles in rhythmic motions. Make your way to the hips then down each leg and massage each thigh and paw gently.
Some dogs will want a longer massage than others so be sure to watch for when your dog might want a quick exit.
The Professional Experience
If your dog is like my Kenzie, taking him or her to a professional might be worth the effort. Professionals have training and experience as well as a quiet atmosphere on their side. They know anatomy and muscles groups that might be tighter and they know how to effectively work each body part for the ultimate experience for your pet.
If you are unsure of how to find a massage therapist for your dog, you can begin by asking your vet, groomer or local pet store.
They might know where you can begin your search. When you find one, call and ask questions. You are entrusting your family member to them, so it’s important that you feel comfortable leaving your baby in their hands for 30 minutes to an hour.
The better massage therapists will be patient, understanding and answer any questions to your satisfaction.
Massage should be relaxing. It shouldn’t be stressful, so remember to create the atmosphere you would like to relax in and chances are, your dog will be mentally adrift in no time!
