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Contributed by Zoe Gan - Certified Dog Massage Therapist
Massaging your Otterhound has many benefits for your canine
friend.
So what are the benefits of dog massage, you ask?
The benefits that your Otterhound gains will depend upon the
reason for his massage.
If he has a health problem and a vet has recommended massage
as a form of therapy, then the benefits will relate to fixing
or at least relieving the health issue.
Often a vet will recommend this therapy when there is a muscle
injury, circulation problem, and even arthritis.
Let's take a look at the main benefits of massaging your Otterhound
regardless of the reason for your dog undertaking a massage:
- Massages improve blood and lymph circulation.
- Massages can relieve muscle tension.
- Massages can help a dog to recover quicker from injury.
- Your Otterhound can de-stress with a massage - just like
people can.
- A massage can help to rebalance energy.
- Massages can enhance the bond between you and your Otterhound.
- Massaging a Otterhound can improve the immune system
A great benefit of massaging your Otterhound is to increase
the effectiveness and strength of the immune system.
Chemicals called cytokines are released during a massage and
these help to reduce stress hormones.
Yes, dogs can suffer from stress too! And reducing stress
in your Otterhound can lengthen their life and improve their
behavior.
Improving stress can also help your Otterhound to fight ailments
and illnesses as he ages.
Many people are now hiring a masseuse for their dog's happiness.
Just like people, dogs gain pleasure from a massage.
However not all dogs are suited to a massage. Some simply
will not lay still for long, whilst others (in particular, older
dogs) could lie down all day and be massaged. You will know whether
or not your dog could handle a massage.
Otterhound puppies generally will not have the patience for
it but, who knows - once he experiences the pleasure of a massage,
his whole personality might change!
You don't have to go to a professional dog massage therapist
- you can learn dog massage and massage your Otterhound from
the comfort of your own home.
You can ask a vet for advice on the best spots and the type
of pressure to use, but it is not overly difficult to apply a
feel-good massage to your Otterhound.
The benefits of Otterhound massage are clear - your Otterhound
will love it and you'll love have a more relaxed, happy Otterhound! |
