Dog's Life
Massage: do it at home!
A massage (touch) is a healthy indulgence both you and your dog can enjoy. Best of all, it's an excellent way to strengthen the loving bond between you. Here's how to make massage part of your daily routine:
Step 1
Massage has tremendous therapeutic value. Just the same, it's better to treat it like a special indulgence instead of a "procedure." Your dog will sense your spirit of fun, and it will arouse his curiosity.
Step 2
Have your dog lie down on a comfortable surface, such as a favorite rug. Gently hold your dog still with one hand, stroking with the other until he relaxes.
Step 3
Before you begin the massage, make sure your hands are clean and dry, free of any lotions or creams.
Step 4
Gentle stretching may be a great preamble to a good massage. Try stretching your dog's limbs, one at a time, for just five seconds. This should be pleasurable, so if your dog flinches or tries to run away, you're stretching too hard.
Step 5
Start the massage at a spot where your dog loves being touched — behind the ears, under the chin or on the tummy. Using three fingertips, gently massage in a circular motion (about the size of a dime) over a muscle.
Step 6
Avoid massaging near open wounds or near the site of recent surgery. It's okay to massage outside of these regions, because it will stimulate circulation, which may encourage healing. Watch your dog's cues to make sure you aren't getting too close to a tender spot.
Step 7
Use massage as a treat before outdoor exercise or as a post-event cool down. It's also an excellent way to examine your dog for cuts, lumps, burrs or ticks.
Step 8
If one is available, enroll in a canine massage class to learn more about the fine art of dog massage.
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