A dog's body weight is made up of 60 percent muscle. It is the system that is responsible for movement. Maximum function and comfort in the muscle system results in the greatest function possible.
Muscle soreness can be the result of injury, structural imbalance, over stretching or over use/misuse. Muscle problems are cumulative. If a problem exists in one area, the animal will have to compensate by tensing up and or using other muscles to protect the injured one. Any number of secondary problems can then occur which will in turn compromise movement and comfort.
Regular massage aids in the prevention of these issues. Once a problem exists, massage helps to break up the tight knots of adhering muscle fibers which restrict full muscle extension. Massage helps find any damaged or potentially compromised area of muscle and restore it to improved function. Canine massage is a non-invasive, completely natural way to help ease discomfort. It helps release the body's natural painkillers (endorphins) into the system, which in turn, eases pain.
Canine massage can be used in many ways… from calming nervous temperaments, to aiding athletic ability, to increasing the bond between human and animal. It is especially appropriate for dogs recovering from injury, experiencing cancer, plagued by arthritis or joint problems.
Massage boosts healing because it increases blood flow throughout the body, which in turn brings oxygen and nutrients to those areas with restricted blood flow, whether from scar tissue or trauma. Canine massage can be very beneficial for the skeletal system. As in other body systems, the bones also need oxygen and blood rich with red blood cells in order to heal. Massage increases the flow of these nutrients to the bones. Additionally, with older dogs, bone density can decrease. Research has shown that regular massage helps increase the retention of both phosphorus and nitrogen by the bones, which keeps the bones strong. Massage helps maintain correct posture and body balance which helps with movement.
Massage can be of great benefit to all dogs as it aids in bringing the body back to homeostasis, or balance which is required for optimum health.
