MASSAGE
As Muscles are the largest component of the body, muscle health has a major impact on your pets’ body and overall well being. Tension, injury, and physical performance can cause muscle soreness.
Q. Why would my pet need a massage?
A. We all know what it’s like to have a stiff neck or tired legs, our animals feel the same at times. It may be soreness from training or just running and playing, but any muscle discomfort can impact our animals physically and behaviorall.
Physically, muscle soreness can cause:
Pain
Lameness
Tension
Decreased range of movement
Decreased blood flow
Decreased flexibility
Lethargy
Threatening or bearing teeth
Becoming aloof or depressed
Resistance:
Referred pain or discomfort; for example a dog with a sore right leg may end up with a sore left leg from transferring the weight and using the left leg more.
Decreased muscle tone or wastage. Behaviorally and emotionally, muscle soreness can cause:
Crankiness;
Snapping or biting;
Kicking
Q. How would a massage help?
A. Massage can help by:
Relieving tension
Increase blood flow
Increase movement and flexibility
Improving blood circulation
Improving immune system
Remove toxins from the circulation and lactic acid buildup
Reduce swelling
Speed recovery from injury
Relieve arthritic and bone pain
Behaviorally can help by:
Releasing endorphins, the feel good and pain reliever chemicals in the brain.
Reduce general cranky or aggressive behavior
Increase alertness
Generally massage makes your pet feel happier, brighter, relaxed, and revitalized.
Q. Are there any other benefits even if my animal doesn’t have an injury?
A. Yes definitely
Regular massage can assist:
Warming up before exercise or training as prevention to injury.
Cooling down after exercise to prevent cramping and discomfort
General well being of your pet by stimulating the skin and hair follicles, oil release and hair regrowth.
After all everyone loves a massage!