Pre/Post-Surgery & Rehabilitation
Canine massage can comfort your dog and ease their stress before any surgical procedure. Post-surgery and rehabilitation massage will increase the blood circulation to help tissue heal faster, stimulate the immune system, prevent clotting in inactive muscles, and restore range of motion. As the goal in rehabilitation is increased movement; massage can aid in your dog’s recovery time from surgery/injury… which will help him be up and moving again!
Athletic Performance
Just like a human athlete warming up before an event, massage will warm up & help loosen muscles; a post-event “cool down” will aid in muscle recovery (preventing lactic acid from building up, which tightens muscles).
Geriatric/Palliative Care
Older dogs in good health, as well as those experiencing arthritis & general aches/ pains will feel relief as massage benefits many body systems. It can also increase their general comfort level, and is a compassionate therapy in end-of-life situations.
Preventative Maintenance
Many large breeds are prone to hip dysplasia, and some small breeds (like Dachshunds, for example) can experience back and hip injuries. Massage as a preventative therapy is a great way to help your dog stay as strong and healthy as possible!
High Stress /Fear/ Separation Anxiety
When your dog is stressed, his body produces chemicals (toxins) to cope and maintain balance. Stress can come from external (environmental) factors, as well as internal (individual personality). Just like humans, there are many dogs walking around with a lot of stress (toxins) in their bodies! Massage will help to move the toxins out of the muscles and enable your dog to “de-stress”! Massage is also great for dogs that are not stressed by temperament, but have “high-stress” jobs (such as police/ K-9 animals).
Socialization
Massage is a wonderful alternative therapy for dogs that experience a heightened level of anxiety when it comes time to go to the vet, groomer, etc., as they learn to associate touch in a positive way. It is also a great way to introduce puppies to touch, and be a vital part of their socialization process.
It is important to know that canine massage is not a substitute for qualified veterinary care. Canine massage is intended to enhance your dog's overall well being and complement the care provided by your veterinarian.