The Science Behind Animal Bodywork.

I've always had a strong interest in health and science. Having a background in biological sciences has expanded my captivation. I am fascinated by the earth's biodiversity, the incredible animal lifestyles shaped by evolution, nutritional sciences, the artisticism of plant science, the life sciences of the human body and animal science. 

 

I feel its important to understand the science behind massage...

Massage releases endorphins, the “feel good” chemicals in the body and helps circulate blood and lymph throughout your fur kid's body. The power of massage can bring about a sense of calm and comfort in animals which help with their natural healing abilities by relieving pain and discomfort.

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There are approximately 700 muscles in their body which accounts for 45% of their entire weight.

These muscles are what allow them to move, run, jump and play and give your fur kid's body the power, strength and ability to move.

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If you have ever pulled a muscle yourself, had a back injury or strained a muscle, then you will know how restricting such an injury can be. As we get older, our body seems to ache more, we get joint pains and stiffness in our muscles, and we generally don’t feel as agile. Well, animals are exactly the same. Through massage, animals can benefit from this 100% natural, hands-on method of injury repair, pain relief and relaxation.

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As with many alternative treatments, animal massage has its roots in ancient practice. Early Egyptian hieroglyphics depict animal healers using massage for treatment. A full-body massage was recommended for dogs and horses by Flavius Arrianus, a philosopher and administrator under the reign of Roman Emperor Hadrian.  He stated it would “knit and strengthen the limbs ... make the hair soft and its hue glossy, and ...cleanse the impurities of the skin.”

Jean-Pierre Hourdebaigt, author of Equine Massage: A Practical Guide, notes that horse massage was practiced in ancient China and Rome and more recently by the Hopi Indians of the American Southwest. And for centuries, horses owned by gentry have been curried, brushed and rubbed down as part of routine care.

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Dr. Michael Fox, author of Healing Touch and numerous other books on animal care, points out the price of domesticating animals. In the wild, social grooming (by licking) provides the touch stimulation needed to thrive, and hunting and free-play keeps the animal’s body toned and fit. Many of our domesticated friends, confined to the home or small yard, miss out on these activities. Fox also notes that domesticated dogs and cats tend to be more infantile and dependent in their behavior than their feral counterparts.3 While petting does provide loving attention and touch, massage goes a step further.

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The benefits of massage for animals parallels those for humans. When you think about it, many findings in massage and touch research were initially proven with lab animals. Animal experiments evaluating the physiological effects of massage began as early as the 1800s.4 In the 1980s, Touch Research Institute began their investigation of the importance of tactile stimulation using rat pups as their subjects. And at present, studies are being conducted with animal models to track ions involved in the biological process of touch. In addition, Chinese studies have documented the effects of Eastern modalities on animals. By extrapolating to humans and continuing with studies on bipeds, researchers have provided evidence of the many benefits of touch and massage.

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One of the most valuable assets of animal massage is health maintenance. Regular massage aids in early detection of abnormalities, such as swelling, injury or painful areas, and facilitates early medical diagnosis of problems. In some cases the time element can be life-saving. The animal’s general overall health is boosted by an increase in blood and lymph circulation and enhancement of muscle tone and flexibility. Fox describes touch as “a potent bridge for love,” thus regular massage develops or can further seal the bond between pet and guardian. Many animals with emotional issues (depression, grief, shyness or distrust) respond well to the relaxation and positive touch of massage. Young animals can be acclimated to touch with massage, making them easier to handle for grooming and medical care.

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Massage is a wonderful compliment to a holistic approach to pet care.

Anyone looking to lead a healthy and balanced lifestyle is well aware of the many benefits of holistic approaches to self care. We recognize the value of massage, energy work, yoga and meditation. If you have ever enjoyed a massage, you know the feeling of ease and relief once stress, tension and restrictions melt away. Our companion animals, just as us, can greatly benefit from a variety of bodywork modalities. 

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Massage is a wonderful compliment to a holistic approach to pet care; it serves as a preventative measure and as a way to bring relief to our companion animals. Massage facilitates the connection between body, mind and spirit supporting an overall state of well-being. Touch is so important – to animals and humans alike. Research has shown that physical contact is critical for both physical and mental health.

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• Relieves stress

• Maintains health

• Interrupts pain cycle

• Increases circulation of the blood and lymphatic systems

• Increases flexibility and range of motion

• Relieves muscular restrictions, tightness, stiffness and spasms

• Flushes toxins and metabolic wastes from the system

• Helps reduce excessive scar formation in soft tissue

• Strengthens the immune system

• Transmits the psychological benefits of touch

• Helps maintain a healthy skin and shiny coat

• Promotes an overall sense of wellness and relaxation.

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Massage has so many physical and psychological benefits for your furry friend that you could almost call it an essential for petcare, like grooming, feeding, and exercise.

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Effleurage warms the tissues, increases blood circulation, encourages release of waste and toxins from the body, calms and relaxes. Percussion helps clear toxins and phlegm inside the lungs, stimulates muscles and circulation of blood vessels near the surface.

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Stretching relaxes muscles, increases flexibility and range of motion.

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Compression relieves muscle spasms, softens fascia and muscle tissues.

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