Research has shown that massages can help reduce our anxiety, stress and blood pressure, but did you know that massages have the same effect on dogs? Here’s how to give different types of massages to suit your dog’s personality.
Routine Massage
A daily massage is not only good for your dog, it can also help you get to know your dog better. After a week or so of giving daily dog massages, you will get to know your dog better.
This allows you to notice any differences in temperature, localised swelling or tension, and skin conditions quicker which may require treatment.
To give a daily massage to your dog, simply use a flat palm and slowly move around your dog’s body. You should focus on what you are feeling, noticing all the different layers from hair to skin, the different muscles and fats, all the way down to the bone.
Your pet will feel like he’s in heaven with all the extra attention and pets.
Massage To Calm Your Dog.
Whether your dog is afraid of thunder, fireworks, or riding in the car, a massage can help reduce his stress or anxiety.
Using the flat palm of your hand, repeatedly make sweeping movements from the top of your dog’s head or neck, along the spine, and down to the tail.
Finish off by placing your hand at the base of his head and rest the other over the high point of your dog’s hips. These points help control the rest and relaxation responses of the body, creating a feeling of calm for your dog.
Massage To Warm-Up Your Active Dog
Warm ups are a vital step prior to exercise in order to limit your chances of injury. This is the same for dogs. Active dogs who compete, run, or hike need to have a good warmup to prevent injury.
Using the heel of your hand, rub your dog’s larger muscles such as neck, shoulders and thighs in a similar fashion as kneading bread dough. Follow up by gently lifting and squeezing the muscles.
For the legs, simply wrap your hand around each lower leg and give a it gentle squeeze. Move up the leg gradually, gently squeezing and releasing as you go. Finish the warm-up massage by giving your dog a pet over the entire body.
