Benefits of Canine Massage

Canine massage offers many benefits including the following:

Relaxation: Canine massage is a pleasurable experience for the dog. It reduces stress and anxiety and provides a calming effect and relaxation. During the massage, stress hormones diminish and pleasure hormones such as dopamine and serotonin increase. Canine massage helps to desensitize and counter condition dogs who are adverse to touch and handling.

Wellness: Canine massage promotes wellness by strengthening the immune system, increasing blood flow to tissues and the joints, and stimulating digestion. It helps rid the body of toxins and waste, and can nourish the coat by increasing circulation to the skin. Canine massage increases flexibility and range of motion, and is considered a passive form of exercise.

Relief from Pain: Canine massage can relieve local and referred pain (trigger points) interrupt the pain cycle by relieving muscle spasms, reduce swelling and edema, and aid in recovery from exercise. Canine massage can also provide comfort during hospice care.

See and hear Janet giving a canine massage

If your dog has any symptoms of illness or injury or disease, please consult your veterinarian. Canine massage is not a substitution for regular veterinary care.