Massaging an aging dog

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Older animals really appreciate the gentle touch and time you give them during a massage session. Massage releases the "feel good" endorphins that are sometimes referred to as the body's built-in pain relievers. For dogs suffering discomfort from arthritis, hip dysplsia, or joint problems, massage can bring improved comfort and well-being. If a geriactric dog cannot sit for long periods, massage therapy and a set of specialized excersises may improve his ability to hold a sitting position. You can adjust this routine according to the state of health of your dog. Remeber, too, that some days will be better than others. Older and heavy animals benifit from massage around the elbow joints, which often becomes points of chronic lameness. Stimulating blood and lymph circulation wiht massage is beneficial to older dogs with impaired heart function. Five minutes of gentle, flat-handed massage-working upward toward the heart from the dog's extremities-followed by a short invigorating treatment, can help.

Flat-handed massage: This stroke is done with the hand flat, fingers together, in a gliding movement. Imagine you are swimming the breaststroke, exerting pressure on the upward stroke and reducing pressure on the return. Don't break the flow by lifting your hand aoff your dog's body between strokes. Work along the line fo the coat, using one or both hands. For area such as the tail and thigh, it may be easier to cup your hand against the curve of your dog. this stork is great for general relaxation and to massage large areas. Make sure you keep your own shoulders relaxed.