Canine Massage

  Did you know that Canine Massage is as important to dogs as people massage is to people? IT IS! It has MANY health benefits....
1. Relaxes hyper/nervous dogs, or dogs under overall stress.
2. Helps shy/submissive dogs feel more secure and they can be handled easier.
3. The bond between you and your companion is strenthened.
4. Improves blood circulation.
5. Helps with joint mobility and muscle tone (especially in older dogs)
6. Stimulates the immune system and moves lymph.
7. Helps in eliminating toxins.
8. Aids the body in healing itself (homeostasis)
9. Helps in shortening the time for recovery from soft tissue injuries.
10. Can help improve sociability/handability (especially for vets/groomers/trainers)

   Some people believe that just petting their dog is just as good as massage. While this IS pleasurable to them, it is not the same, nor does it reap the same benefits. Massage is comprised of several different types of specified techniques that each has it's own purpose. Massage is used to help bring the body "back in balance", or homeostasis. When the body is out of balance, illness and injury can occur. The body has it's own ability to heal itself, it just sometimes needs a little help achieving that. Massage helps. It can release endorphines, which is a natural pain killer. This can help reduce the stress that the body may be going through so it can focus on healing. If your animal is recieving chiropractic adjustments, having a massage before can help the treatment be administered easier and be more effective. There are times though when massage is not advised, like when a dog has: FEVER, POISONING, SEVERE TRAUMA, SEVERE DEBILITATION, IN SHOCK, HEAT STROKE, THROMBOSIS, OR ILLNESS/INJURY NOT DIAGNOSED BY A VET. A dog acting ill or hurt must be seen by a vet first to be diagnosed and given permission to be massaged.
  It is also good for you to know that following a massage, a dog may exhibit some of these signs, due to the toxins being released: Clear nasal discharge, dizziness, sleepiness/yawning, thirst/panting, nausea, frequent urination. Make sure you offer your pet water afterwards and take them to a place they can go to the bathroom.
  Well, I hope you will think about all these important facts about canine massage and consider trying it on your companion! I basically charge a dollar per minute. Most massages last anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. It depends on the dog, what kind of attention it needs. I look forward to meeting you and yours!