Sarah Posted May 4, 2009 Report Share Posted May 4, 2009 Deep massage on dogs requires knowledge of anatomy and should be performed only by a trained and certified practitioner but there's no reason you can't give your pet a light, relaxing rubdown right at home. Have your dog lie on a soft, firm surface such as a rug, although very small dogs can be done sitting or crouching on your lap. Start with several soft, slow strokes from head to tail. When your dog begins to relax, scratch gently behind the ears, moving to the cheeks, under the chin, over the nose, between the eyes and over the head. Rub each ear several times between your thumb and forefinger, working from base to tip. Using three fingers, move slowly over the neck, shoulders, and chest in small, circular patterns, gently pinching folds of any loose skin in these areas. Lightly squeeze down the length of each foreleg, then place three fingers on each side of the leg and softly rub opposite directions several times. If your dog is comfortable with having his feet handled, use your thumb and forefinger and give each foot a couple of soft squeezes. This is a good time to look out for any burrs, ticks, or skin abnormalities. Use common sense in avoiding wounds, lumps, rashes or any sore spots. The second phase of the massage can include placing your thumb and index finger on each side of the spine and 'walking' them toward the base of the tail, and then the outside of each thigh. You may also squeeze the length of the tail and move down the rear legs in the same way as on the front legs, if your dog doesn't protest. If at any point, your dog resists, respect his wish and move to the last area or technique he enjoyed. Finish up with several soft, slow strokes from head to tail. Remember, deep massage should be done only by a trained and certified practitioner so it's very important to always keep your home massage light and gentle. When you finish, your dog will most likely be snoozing peacefully and you may be surprised to find your own tensions melted away as well. Read more: "Home Massage for Dogs: Tips for Helping Your Dog Relax" - http://dogs.suite101.com/article.cfm/homemassagefordogs#ixzz0EXcNb3TK&A Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Austinville Posted May 4, 2009 Report Share Posted May 4, 2009 Bo really enjoys getting massaged. He relaxes all the way out and gets pretty vocal as it's happening. It's a wonderful thing for senior dogs. Thanks for sharing this advice and link! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
siberian_wolf Posted May 4, 2009 Report Share Posted May 4, 2009 brilliant, always thought of giving this a go with my boys. Sorry but cant add to rep as gave it out to you just now. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lana Posted October 27, 2009 Report Share Posted October 27, 2009 Useful information. Thanks for posting. I will try these with Lana. I will let you know how it goes. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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