K-9 Massage: Give Your Dog a New Leash On Life.

I was talking to Linda McKenna of Petkneads Canine Massage about the benefits of massage for dogs. Our oldest dog, Buddy, is almost 10 and has some mobility issues. As a youngster he broke a knee cap that had to be surgically repaired, and he also had shoulder surgery for a mass that thankfully turned out to be benign. The result is that Buddy is not as mobile as we would like. Buddy looks forward to his time with Linda like a 2 year old looks forward to a Happy Meal. At the end of the massage Buddy is moving easier and more confidently on his feet. So I asked her why massage works. The following is an essay she sent me that answers that question.
K-9 Massage, Giving Your Dog A New Leash on Life.
Dr. Michael Fox, noted veterinarian and author, states in his book, The
Healing Touch, that pet massage is “…an essential of health care, like
grooming, feeding and exercise.” Linda McKenna, owner of Pet Kneads Canine Massage in Sheffield Lake, couldn’t agree more. In 2003, after working as a Social Worker for 25 years in various medical settings, she took a leap of faith and made a decision to pursue a profession as a canine massage practitioner.  

“If someone truly follows their heart it’s bound to lead them to their  passion and purpose in life. I am a firm believer in giving back since I’ve enjoyed so many blessings in life. One of those blessings has been the gift of sharing my home with a variety of dogs over the years who generously offered the gift of unconditional love day in and out. I view doing canine massage as a privilege and labor of love.”

Linda assists dogs in their process of self-healing, whether they be companion, show, agility, service, or
therapy animals.  Canine massage is a gentle, non-invasive, drug-free form of care that helps to maintain and extend the length and quality of a dog’s life. Contrary to some people’s beliefs, it is much more than petting or play; it is a deliberate and focused technique of touching a dog. Each massage is tailored to meet your dog’s specific needs and each stroke is controlled in its pressure, direction and purpose. The most basic animal sense of touch increases trust and bonding, as well as provides physical and emotional comfort and  well-being. Massage does the same type of things for dogs that it does for humans: increases circulation, flexibility, strength and muscle tone which, in turn, relieves pain and promotes relaxation.
Massage has a positive influence on both the physical and psychological
well-being of dogs of all ages and conditions. Its benefits include reduced
pain of muscles and joints from arthritis, hip dysplasia and other chronic
or degenerative problems, naturally, by warming, stretching, and relaxing
the affected area(s). Specific techniques can assist in releasing muscle
tenderness and spasms and increase range of motion all the while improving
immune function by removing toxins that build up within the body. If your dog
has experienced an injury or surgery, massage can help to speed up the
recovery process. When one part of the body is not functioning properly, it
forces other parts to work harder to compensate. Your dog’s entire body needs to be addressed in order to more thoroughly correct the problem.
Both human and animal bodies have self-healing mechanisms. Occasionally,
these mechanisms need assistance to get things moving and balanced again. If you notice that your dog is not moving as easily, limping, having trouble
going up or down stairs or appears sore/stiff following exercise then it
would be appropriate to contact a canine massage practitioner (after first
consulting with your veterinarian to rule out any medical problems). Massage  is never a substitute for veterinary care, it is complementary to both traditional and holistic treatment.
Just as humans, dogs are emotional creatures. They have thoughts, feelings
and experience pain, loneliness and anxiety. Canine massage can affect
issues related to fear, anxiety or any stressful period of adjustment such as
a new home, boarding situation or the addition/loss of a family member or
pet. It also provides comfort and care to dogs and their owners coping with
end of life situations. Some people may decide they just want to pamper
their pets with a little TLC. A relaxing massage is a wonderful way to do this
and return some of the undying love they receive on a daily basis from
their canine companion! Owners can also be taught massage techniques to
perform on their dogs, especially if they are dealing with a chronic medical
condition that needs attention on a frequent basis.
After reading this essay, I wanted to share it with everyone because it answers the question of how massage improves quality of life for dogs beautifully. We are very fortunate to have Linda visit the Bakery once a month to bring her magic touch to our dogs. Her next date with us is July 13 from 1pm to 4pm. Please call 440-353-1990 to make an appointment for your dog.

For more information about Linda McKenna and Pet Kneads Canine Massage,
please call 440-949-8761 or 440-281-3141.
Linda McKenna
Pet Kneads K-9 Massage
Give Your Dog a New Leash on Life!
Gentle touch for pain relief,
relaxation, flexibility & wellness
Give Us A Bark At: 440-949-8761
http://www.petkneads.com.