It's been proven that canines benefit greatly from massage techniques.
Massage will:
- Improve circulation of blood and lymph which as a result increases oxygenation and nutrient availability while removing toxic metabolic waste from the cells and tissues of the body.
- Release contracted muscles.
- Increases flexibility and elasticity of the muscles by loosening muscle fibres.
- Improves movement and range of motion thereby decreasing gait restrictions.
- Promotes relaxation of the nervous system and the musculo-skeletal system
- Improves the bond between animal and human.
- Releases stress and tension.
- Increase performance level at shows and events
- Reduce recovery time.
- Bring about an all-around improvement in mind, body and spirit.
Often overlooked and under appreciated, massage can effectively and naturally help alleviate many physiological and physiological problems.
As awareness grows and misconceptions fade regarding the value of massage, more and more people are discovering for themselves and for their animals, the amazing benefits of massage.
Canine athletes involved in physically challenging sports such as agility, fly ball, various levels of obedience, or dogs involved in mentally and physically demanding work such as search and rescue, police K-9 units and guide dogs benefit greatly from massage. Not to forget companion dogs, including older, injured and dogs recovering from surgery, as they also benefit and respond very positively in many ways to massage.
Unlike human beings, animals are unable to say , "I'm sore, I don't want to do this today." Instead, our animals will communicate non-verbally. For example, if you see your animal is:
- tossing / shaking their head
- stumbling/ dragging a foot/ limping
- refusing or resisting leads (horses)
- has shortened strides
- seems to be unhappy or depressed
- appears unable to get comfortable…then he could be experiencing
- pain caused by stress-points, trigger points, muscle spasm/ tension which
- can be helped greatly by massage.
REMEMBER, massage is not a replacement for veterinary care. If your animal has any of the above mentioned problems or symptoms, it's a good idea to see a veterinarian first.
As with everything you do with animals, remember communication and respect is key.
We all have our "baggage" from life experiences and for our own health should learn to let go of these confines and open up to the possibilities that await.
Animals pick up on the way we are feeling and what we are thinking, so it's very important to be completely "there" with them.
When we set out to help an animal we must leave our responsibilities and worries behind. Get out of our "heads" and get into our hearts and watch the magic take place with our animals.
(c) Copyright 2011 Shari's Quest
Shari Seymour - Canine Massage Therapy Services Rice Lake Ontario
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Shari's love for animals extends into horse and dog wellness. She illustrated and co-authored a book on 
Shari Seymour creates