Canine massage is the ultimate therapy for ageing dogs and the results I’ve seen in many of my older clients have been remarkable. With regular massage their quality of life has been greatly increased allowing them to feel younger, healthier, and balanced. As a treatment for the management and prevention of age-related diseases massage is a good alternative to less natural pharmaceutical treatments. As our dogs grow older staying active is also so important, regular exercise can help improve mobility, flexibility and even their mental health. Some of the benefits of massage include an increased range of motion, strengthening of muscles while reducing tension, and a higher quality night’s sleep; sleeping deeper and for longer allows the body time to regenerate and repair itself, resulting in an overall state of greater well-being. Massage also improves posture and reduces tension that has accumulated in the muscles over many years. 
I have many ageing clients and after regular massage results include:
- More energy
- Able to walk further
- Start to play again
- Start jumping on and off the furniture again
- Generally happier
- Less stiff when they wake up
- Better quality of life
The techniques used for senior citizens differ greatly from those used with younger dogs so it’s really important to choose a qualified canine massage therapist so they understand those differences. When treating ageing dogs incorporating stretching into the session can also be very beneficial. Specific stretching techniques involve the application of just enough pressure on the joints, soft tissue, and muscles to make the massage safe for an older individual while still retaining its efficacy. Symptoms indicating your dog could benefit from massage are:
- Slowing down
- Stiffness
- Shaking/trembling
- NSAID intolerant
- Pacing around/finding it difficult to settle
- Finding it difficult to get up and down from lying/sitting position
- Difficulty getting in and out of car
- difficulty going up and down stairs
- Reluctant to go for a walk
- Arthritis
- Grumpy with other dogs
- Spondylosis
- Miserable/depressed
- Off food
- Lost their sparkle
Call today to find out how massage can help your dog and for other useful tips such as useful supplements, correct bedding and feeding heights etc.