© 2023 Dynamic Dogs.
Health Benefits
By introducing your dog to a course of massage therapy, you are unlocking a range of physiological benefits.
EFFECTS ON THE COAT AND SKIN
Massage improves skin texture and skin circulation by vaso-dilation of surface capillaries. Coat may appear glossier due to increased sebaceous gland secretions.
EFFECTS ON THE MUSCLES
Massage improves muscle tone, relieves fatigue by assisting removal of lactic acid, helps prevent formation of adhesions and scar tissue and has a relaxing effect on tight knotted or overworked muscles.
EFFECTS ON THE JOINTS
Massage and passive stretching mobilise joints by loosening joint capsules and increasing synovial fluid production. Pain and stiffness are eased, joints become supple and movement is rebalanced.
EFFECTS ON THE VASCULAR & LYMPHATIC SYSTEMS
Massage increases venous and lymphatic circulation of fluid, oxygen and nutrients to and from peripheral tissues, it creates a localised erythema, heats up cold extremities and assists removal of metabolic waste and toxins from tissues.
EFFECTS ON THE NEUROLOGICAL SYSTEM
Massage has a calming and soothing effect on tense, tired nerve pathways, causes an increase in release of oxytocin (the feel-good hormone) and stimulates production of endorphins (natural pain killer molecules). Massage also helps to re-engage the proprioception system and stimulates sluggish nerve endings (reduces numbness).
EFFECTS ON THE RESPIRATORY SYSTEM
Massage may induce deep breathing and slows or regulates external and internal respiration.
EFFECTS ON THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
Massage may increase peristalsis and help prevent constipation.
EFFECTS ON THE ENDOCRINE SYSTEM
Massage may speed up circulation of hormones and may relax the autonomic nervous system causing a reduction in production of stress hormones such as cortisol.