WHY MASSAGE A YOUNG DOG?

Many of my canine clients are older dogs. Seniors who have developed structural problems. They may be recuperating from surgeries or may have developed osteoarthritis during their younger years that is now proving to be a real problem for them and their people.

My veterinary community may use cold laser, water therapies, or drugs. Occasionally one of the holistic vets will use acupuncture or chiropractic. So where am I going with this blog here anyway?

It is my wish that I could work on your dogs when they are younger, before they have reached their older years so we might be able to allay or prevent some of the problems I see. I absolutely love working with senior pups, I have 2 of my own right now, both 'foster failures,' holding their own structurally.

Athletic dogs who are active in rally, obedience, herding ~ Agility ~ have shown me what is is like to have my massage work benefit them. We can identify a problem shoulder or a tight spasm in the mid-back before it is ignored and forgotten. Massage improves their concentration and focus as well, and keeps them at their peak.

You may not have considered having massage for your younger dog, after all, he or she is full of energy, eats well, plays with the kids, and runs all over the place. Be aware your younger dog is also falling, jumping up and down in places that strain his over-all structure, and will run himself into the ground to jog with you or play Frisbee till he drops. That's where I come in. Here's how it can help:

Relaxes tense muscles for better circulation.
Improves movement and reduces restrictions that can lead to structural problems.
Releases tight tissues that can interfere with good body function.
Soothes tension and stress.
Detoxifies.
Deeply calming.