Canine Massage
If you have ever received a massage in a spa or other setting, you know how wonderful it makes you feel. As time goes on, more and more dog owners are realizing and accepting that massage is beneficial for their dog too. Not only does it calm nervous and timid dogs, but it also helps dogs with arthritis, elbow or hip dysplasia. The benefits, both psychological and physical, are enormous. Canine massage is also especially beneficial for show dogs, agility dogs, police dogs, search and rescue dogs, and other working dogs.
The following are just some of the effects massage can have on your dog:-
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Calm and relax
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Energize
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Counteract stress
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Increase flexibility and range of motion
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Restore natural gait and balance
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Relieve muscle tension, adhesions and "knots"
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Soothe sore muscles and joints
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Prevent injury
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Accustom your dog to all-over touch
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Make your dog feel great!
Why Massage?
At this point, you may be thinking, “I pet my dog all the time; why do they really need a massage?” The answer is simple; while petting
is soothing and relaxing for both you and your dog, it is rubbing rather than massage. Your dog's body actively responds and participates
during massage. Massage is the deliberate delivery of strokes using controlled pressure and intention. Massage is beneficial for both physical
and emotional well-being.
Benefits of Massage to canines
Massage affects all body systems :
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• Increased circulation provides nutrients and the removal of toxins
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• Coat quality is improved through dispersion of natural oils
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• Skin exhibits more elasticity and less dryness
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• Oxygen levels are increased and respiration is improved
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• Muscles are relaxed and toned
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• Nervous system function is enhanced
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• Digestion and elimination are improved
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• Reduction in pain through release of endorphins
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• Provides a sense of well-being and enhances disposition
Ocean Waves Massage is proud to offer Canine Massage for your beloved pet companion. A full massage generally takes between 45 minutes to an hour, depending on temperament and size of your dog. We always perform a full body massage so that all the muscles of the body receive the benefit of massage, but of course we can always spend more time on a specific area as needed or requested. We come to your house as most dogs are more comfortable in their own territory. An alternate venue can be arranged if your dog is especially aggressive or territorial. A muzzle may need to be used in these instances (although these instances have been rare!).
Remember - Canine Massage is not meant to replace normal veterinary care - we work in conjunction with veterinarians to provide your dog with the best health possible!
Please contact us at 757-353-0619 or 804-464-1508, or on our "Contact Us" page to learn more. Also please feel free to contact us should you have any questions whatsoever.
We look forward to hearing from you - I'm sure your dog does too!
Tyson (in the front) resting after his massage, with his sister Trystan close behind. We miss you Tyson.
Carrie and Wolfie - another satisfied customer!
Massage and acupressure are safe and non-invasive and can help any cat, but especially older cats, live their life in a more relaxed environment. Along with a good quality diet, exercise, and love, bodywork can go a long way in helping your cat to feel the best that they possibly can.
So if your cat is starting to feel the effects of getting older, or if they have a physical malady which bodywork could help with, don't hesitate any longer! Contact us to get your pet onto the road to wellness. You'll be glad you did.
Oliver and Magic - two very satisfied senior "kitizens" after their massages!
Here are some great pet tips for February:-
Many of us will be planting winter hardy plants or bringing plants indoors in the cool weather. Make sure that the plants you choose are safe for your pet. Check out www.aspca.com for a list of plants which may be poisonous to your pet. Got an iPhone? Spend the money and buy the ASPCA Petoxins app. It lists nearly every plant you can think of and the effects it will have on your pet. And with Christmas about, pine needles, tinsel, bows, and other shiny objects will tempt your furry friend to no end. Make sure everything is out of reach of your pets in order that everyone can enjoy the holiday season.
We have all seen the heartwrenching tornado disasters on the news. Tornados aren't the only things we have to deal with - floods and hurricanes can be just as deadly. Not only that, but blizzards can be deadly as well. Would you know what to do for yourself and your pets in an emergency? Make sure that you have a plan in place. Check out the National Red Cross website for more info here.
Do not feed your pets chocolate, please! It may be tempting but chocolate can be very dangerous to pets and even fatal. Give the regular healthy snacks you always give them. They will thank you for it!
National Wild Bird Feeding Month
Responsible Pet Owners Month
National Cat Health Month
Pet Dental Health Month
Adopt a Rescued Rabbit Month
National Wildlife Week (Third Week)
Spay Day USA (February 22nd)
Want to make a difference, but don't know how? Why not go to your local shelter and see if they need help with cleaning cages, socializing the animals, etc. There are so many shelters out there that need our help!
Ocean Waves Massage VA is proud to have our articles featured on the Richmond Pet Lovers website! To check them out, simply click here and then click on "Pet Articles" at the top.
