The power of touch has the amazing ability to comfort and heal the body and soul. Not only does this simple tool provide relief and relaxation to a stressed body, but it also provides a stronger connection between you and your pet reducing emotional anxiety and stress.
Massage can also be used to acclimate your pet to having their nails trimmed, ears cleaned or teeth brushed. Feel good hormones such as serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin are released causing a relaxation response.
For therapeutic benefits there are massage therapy protocols that can be used for specific conditions, however, a gentle overall general massage can do a lot for your pet. Most of us spend time petting and grooming our pets so we may as well use that effort towards a more specific healing massage.
Benefits of massage:
- Improved digestion
- Better sleep
- Reduces stress & anxiety
- Relieves tension
- Fewer aches & pains
- Improved flexibility
- Improves circulation, including lymph drainage
- Overall well-being
- Improves your bond between you and your pet
To learn more about basic massage techniques for pets including instructional videos on various topics of pet health, check out these mini-courses on pet heath or sign up for the PetWise Membership.
An inspiring book about the benefits of animal massage is “The walrus on my table” by Anthony Guglielmo.