Your dog can benefit from a warm-up massage before play or exercise just like you can.
You want to use an open palm. Start with a brisk, light rub down from the crown of your dog’s head to the rump. You want to use light, even strokes, one after the other. Keep your hands loose and open and use a brushing stroke, one hand after the other, with your palm leading. You don’t want to use a lot of pressure here; just enough to better stimulate the blood flow.
Use the tips of your fingers to gently massage the large muscles of the jaw. Trace lightly over the snout and top of the head again, repeating the open-handed brushing strokes. Repeat this stroke routine about three or four times in it’s entirety.
Do a light massage on the large muscle groups down the legs by using your thumbs to trace small, even circles across the entire muscle. Be careful not to apply a lot of pressure. You are looking to get the blood flow to the muscles, not to do deep relaxation. Blood flow helps the muscles work better, move better, and be more flexible. This helps your dog avoid injury and minimize soreness after a strenuous day.
Keep your massages short, between five and ten minutes. Offer fresh water and a bathroom break afterwards, then enjoy your day.
Contact Information:
Stephanie Whitehead
Paws for Health of Virginia, LLC
9947 Hull Street Road, Suite 244
Richmond, VA 23236
804-986-4675
pawsforhealthofva@yahoo.com
Remember, although massage is a safe and gentle procedure, you should always consult with your vet before using any treatment he or she is not aware of. Verify with the vet that your pet doesn’t have any condition that massage might make worse. Always offer your dog clean fresh water after a massage. This helps flush out toxins and other waste from your dog’s muscles. Also, massage is a useful addition to veterinary care, not a substitute. Always keep your vet informed about any outside treatments.
