May 15, 2012
Posted in Pet Health

Has your pup been acting more lethargic or less playful due to its arthritis? Does it seem a little more cranky or agitated than usual? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it may be time to try a new method of helping your dog in addition to its supplements and pet drugs. Starting your dog on supplements like Dasuquin that contain glucosamine for dogs and on anti-inflammatory medications like Metacam or Previcox will help ease the pain associated with arthritis, but a soothing massage will increase the good feelings even more. There are a variety of massage techniques
owners can try out on their dogs to keep them calm and pain free – even with arthritis.

Benefits of massage

There are a wide range of benefits your dog will experience from its massage including increased flexibility and mobility. The dog will also have improved circulation and reduced pain from its condition.

Where to massage your pooch

Massaging your dog may be a bit difficult at first as your pooch won't know what's going on. To keep it calm it may be best to start the process on the floor. Make sure to keep fresh water on site as drinking actually helps the dog get the most benefits out of the massage. Once the dog is calm and at rest, you can begin rubbing it down.

Effleurage

An effleurage massage is a long, gentle stroke that works to warm up the dog's muscles and tissue. When performing this massage, keep one hand on the dog at all times and use the other hand to slowly slide across its face, head, body, tail and the outside of its legs. Always rub the dog in the direction its hair grows. After warming up the muscles, start to make long strokes down a portion of the dog's body with one hand and then do the same with the other hand, so the dog is always being touched.

Passive touch

Passive touch is another form of massage that requires you to place your hands over one muscle group at a time, applying almost no pressure. Keep your hands on a specific muscle group for a few moments and then move on to the next section. Make sure to touch its head, shoulders, thighs and hips. These weightless touches will help infuse a sense of calm and will work to reduce pain.

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1. Hydrotherapy for Dogs
2. How to give your dog or cat pet drugs
3. How to help a trembling, cowering canine
4. Keeping your pooch’s ears healthy and clean