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This post comes to us courtesy of Grace Granatelli with Pawsitive Touch Therapy. Grace has been a certified Canine Massage Therapist since 2003 and has been featured in the Arizona Republic, Arizona Foothills Magazine, Arizona Woman Magazine, East Valley Tribune, and has appeared on the “Your Life from A-Z” weekday magazine show.
The response I get from most people when I tell them I provide canine massage is, “I massage my dog all the time and he/she loves it.” I tell them your dog is lucky that you take the time out to massage him, but do you prefer your significant other to massage you or a professional? A massage from your significant other will feel really good, and will help, but when a professional massages you the end results are more therapeutic and far more beneficial.
Massage for dogs has the same benefits as for people.
Ways that massage affects the body is that it enhances blood circulation which aids the flow of nutrients to the tissue. Massage aids in moving lymphatic fluid which is responsible for removing waste products and toxins. It improves flexibility, reduces arthritic pain, releases endorphins (the body's natural pain killer), improves the immune system and strengthens the body.
Ways that massage affects the Mind is that by contact. The moment your hands come in contact with a dog he/she has an awareness of your intention and that sensation activates the mind. As the dog explores and discovers the different levels of touch, his/her mind becomes aware and focused starting from the coat then transcends to the connective tissue, muscles, tendons, joints and ligaments where the focus of awareness follows. Through this exploration the mind is relaxed, trust is developed and the canine-human bond is further strengthened.
Ways that massage affects the Spirit is that it is a way for us to energetically cross barriers and let our care and compassion from within us touch our fur-children and best friends. Through the intention of our touch we are able to transmit love and love is as essential to dogs life as water.
In my practice I have been consulted for various reasons. Some of which are to speed the healing of an injury, to help a pet with pain relief from arthritis and many other muscular/skeletal ailments, to help socialize shy and timid pets, to maintain optimal wellness and prevent injuries from occurring as well as many others.
An important thing to remember is that massage is not a replacement for veterinary care. It is a good idea to see a physician or veterinarian before any therapeutic massage to rule out any serious diagnosis.
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Photo credit: 歡迎來玩. Brian
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