How to Massage Your Dog

Finbar enjoying the beach

Meet Finbar.  Finbar is a male boxer I had the pleasure of meeting about 1 month ago while selling the Walka Pack at a local Farmers Market. 

Finbar's parents Brendan and Danielle proudly showcased Finbars calm demeanor as fellow four legged friends barked and lunged at him.  Finbar chose to lie at Brendan's feet instead of engaging with his anxious peers.

What did Danielle and Brendan do to make Finbar so zen like?  Massage, Massage, Massage!




If you're interested in providing your dog with a massage, before you begin remember to:

1. Read the dogs energy. If they lean into you the pressure is good. If they walk away, well...try again with lighter pressure
2. Make sure to stay away from bony landmarks. Massage feels best on tired bulky muscles. These areas include the jaw muscles, shoulder muscles, and hip or lower back muscle groups. 

DOG MASSAGE INSTRUCTIONS

• Use very light pressure to begin.  Read the dog as to whether or not to deepen the pressure.  Massage benefits are not dependent on deep pressure.
• Start out with one finger rotating in small circles on one side of your animals muscles.  As you feel more comfortable and develop a rhythm begin to work your other fingers collectively.

MASSAGE BENEFITS FOR YOUR DOG

• Increased circulation and relaxation
• Releases endorphin, the bodies natural pain killers
• Decreased inflammation for pets suffering from joint pain and arthritis

There are many professional massage therapists available if you wish to pamper your pet with a spa day.  Consult a national organization such as the American Massage Therapy Association at  http://www.amtamassage.org/