Canine Massage Benefits

Massage is a wholistic physical treatment, that is, a treatment that affects and benefits the whole body, not just the muscles. Canine massage also has a role to play in promoting healthy function in the rest of the dog.

Leslie Williamson, Senior lecturer

The treatment of Canine Massage is very safe when professionally applied. It is asking the body to behave as it should. It is assisting the release of contracted fibres that resist movement due to tightness within the body. Massage draws blood, carrying oxygen and nutrients to the area and allows for greater flexibility.

As a physical hands-on practice, Canine MyoTherapy (CMT) works first and foremost on the dog’s muscles and soft tissues, addressing direct issues that may exist here. Approximately 40 – 60% of a dog’s body weight is comprised of muscles and soft tissue. Maintaining this major component of the dog in optimum condition is extremely important. This is the primary purpose and role of a Canine MyoTherapy practitioner.

So, the primary benefits of CMT are directly on the muscles and soft tissues, treating the myriad of conditions, sometimes hidden or protected by the dog, that may compromise muscle function.
Closely linked to the muscles are the other elements of the musculoskeletal system, the bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments. This system is all about movement and protection. The skeleton is the scaffolding for the body, facilitating movement through the joints, and providing support and protection for the internal organs. A CMT treatment can aid this system by working on the correct action of the joints and connective tissues, and restoring the correct range of motion in the joint through restoring muscle length, tone, and elasticity.

Movement in dogs, in fact in all animals and humans, is fundamental to good health. Properly functioning, well-balanced, supple, and well-developed muscles are fundamental to correct movement. Given the intrinsic and deep connections between the body’s various systems, the musculoskeletal system, the nervous system, the cardio-vascular system, the respiratory system, the digestive systems, etc.

Massage works on the muscles and other soft tissues promoting healing and wellness throughout the body, making Canine MyoTherapy a key element in the wholistic management of a dog’s health.