All About Dog Care  Partners

A few years ago if someone would have suggested massage for my dogs, I would have looked at them and said something like, “You’ve got to be kidding!” That all changed when my Wanda sprained a muscle in her leg while playing fetch...

The veterinarian prescribed rest and aspirin for the pain. But if you know my Wanda, you know that she is not one for rest.

Luckily a friend of mine is a massage therapist. Teresa always did a great job for my husband and me, so I called and asked her if she could work on Wanda’s leg.

Wanda was a little reluctant at first, but then she loved it. Teresa showed me how to massage Wanda’s leg myself. In no time Wanda was out chasing her Kong Toy around the yard. I was a convert.

Massage can benefit dogs as much as humans. Massage speeds the healing process from surgery, alleviates arthritic pain, and relieves stress.

Michael Holloway, a Boca Raton pet massage therapist offers some practical tips and some do’s and don’ts for giving your dog a massage:

1. Lay the pet on its side and rock to calm and relax them
2. For trouble areas in dog’s body use a squeeze and release method of the skin and muscle tissue to relieve pain and tension.
3. For injured areas, apply ice for 10 minutes every 2 hours to relieve swelling and pain.
4. When beginning massages with your pet be patient with yourself and with your pet, it may be the first time for the both of you.
5. Always check with your Vet if you have any doubts.
6. Massage will bring you and your dog even closer together.

Do’s

1. Do make a special time for massage.
2. Do enjoy your time with your dog.
3. Do be Consistent. Consistency brings about change.
4. Do exercise together -- swim, walk & play
5. Do check with your Vet if any questions or doubts.

Don'ts:

1. Don't be afraid to use strong pressure, your dog will tell you if doesn't like it.
2. Don't make sudden changes in your pet’s lifestyle.
3. Don't massage deeply on a dog with cancer.

Didn't Find What You Were Looking For?

	Web AllAboutDogCare.com

Or Compare prices on dog supplies from thousands of online stores.