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. Tyson really seems to love his monthly massages!
Carrie and Wolfie - another satisfied customer! Wolfie has been getting Canine Massages regularly for about a year and has really benefited from it.
Feline Massage
Ocean Waves Massage is proud to also offer Feline Massage. We use special acupressure points on your cat which help to keep systems running smoothly and help to reduce stress on the body. This is especially beneficial for "Senior Kitizens". In many cases, as cats get older, they may have difficulty grooming because they just don't have the flexibility they did when they were young. Additionally, other issues may show difficulty in walking, unable to curl into a tight ball to sleep, and appearing more bony with the spine being easier to see and feel (Animal Wellness, December 2008/January 2009). All these issues may make our beloved pet feel like he just doesn't want to take part in any activity. Massage and acupressure can help to alleviate this.
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:- 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!
Chocolate can be deadly to animals. Be sure to keep your Valentines sweets out of their reach.
Since February is Pet Dental Health Month, make sure your pet's records are up do date and that they are having their teeth checked yearly. Bacteria from infections can migrate to the internal organs, so it's always best to be safe than sorry!
Animal Holidays in February:-
Pet owners - please be aware of the Sago Palm or Cycad plant. All parts of it are extremely poisonous to animals and it is estimated that 75% to 80% who ingest it will die, despite medical treatment. Go to http://www.burnthillsvethosp.com/ for more info and for signs and symptoms.
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:- http://www.richmondpetlovers.com/
