Puppy Pleasure

Many people seek out professional massage therapists to help heal injuries and relieve pain and stress. Many of these people are also pet owners. You'd be surprised at the number of them who don't realize that their animals can benefit from the same type of healing touch that they themselves receive.

I'm not suggesting you have to hire Fido his own masseuse. (Although, if you have the budget, you certainly can find qualified practitioners out there.) With a little research you can give your dog his own relaxing massage. Not only is pet massage a great way to bond with your pet and make him feel good, it's a useful tool to help calm a nervous animal and promote a more positive training atmosphere. Plus pet massage may help you spot an injury or infection before it becomes a life-threatening problem. Daily hands-on sessions with your pet are the best preventative medicine available.

For thousands of years practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine have recognized the the benefits of accupressure and massage in humans. And several yoga positions are actually named after animals. Since our dogs' and cats' anatomies are very similar in many ways to our own, it stands to reason that they will also reap the wonderful effects massage and accupressure can bring. (Horses also benefite greatly from massage and accupressure.)

While there are quite a few references available on the internet, the best place to start is with your own vet. Remember, pet massage is not a replacement for qualified medical care. Your vet may be able to give you some helpful information on the best way to get started. Ask if there are pet massage classes in your area. If your vet doesn't have any information, contact local breed and obedience clubs for more information. Or call around and talk to licensed pet massage therapists about setting up a class for pet owners.

You can start by simply sitting on the floor with your dog and slowly running your hands over his body, gently massaging the muscles while feeling for abnormalities like unusual bumps, abcesses (which are frequently difficult to find if your pet has a thick coat), or if your pet reacts to sore places. Don't attempt it immediately after your pet has eaten, or right after strenuous excercise. (It is not recommended to give massage to a pregnant animal unless you have been instructed in the proper method because of the risk of inducing premature labor.) Listen to what your pet tells you - if they act restless or as if they are in pain, don't force them to lay there while you rub them. If they act like they are enjoying something you are doing, keep doing it! *smile*

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