Massage – what a great way to not only bond with your dog but to help keep them healthy and relaxed. At the start of our Introduction to Canine Massage class, the dogs were all bouncing off the walls wanting to play with each other

I read a great article in the New York Times the other day titled “Dog Massage? Isn’t Petting Enough?” The article talks in part about the controversy surrounding whether pet massage actually helps the animal or whether it is just glorified petting. While many vets may say that there is no science behind pet massage, I’ve seen first hand the positive effects of massage on dogs.

Prior to 2005, I didn’t know there was such a thing as canine massage! But after a vivid dream, I researched it, and changed careers. As ridiculous as it may sound to some people, aqua therapy, massage, aromatherapy, acupressure, and other modalities are viable, proven, non-invasive, holistic options for maintaining health and treating a wide range of conditions both in humans and animals.

I’ve been thinking recently about canine massage and why many people view it as a luxury rather than a necessity. In the human world, massage is routinely prescribed by doctors these days because the medical benefits are so clear and are growing daily. Why isn’t the same thing true in the canine world?

One of the most important things to remember though is not how to do the various strokes. You will learn those strokes as you practice. What’s more important is to find a quiet time when both you and your dog are “in the mood.” Your dog must want to receive a massage, and you must be in the proper frame of mind to give a massage. You should be as stress free as possible, and not thinking of the kids, or what you have to cook for dinner, or how your day was at work.

We are the only Orlando dog boarding and Orlando doggie day care center that has an indoor heated pool for dogs. See it for yourself by scheduling a tour!

Rocky's Retreat | 2826 Shader Rd. Orlando FL 32808 | info@rockysretreat.com | (407) 295-3888