Before bedtime, Gwen LaPointe would massage her senior dog’s achy body. The nightly routine calmed Kayla, an anxious beagle mix, who, during her last year on earth continually paced and had lost her hearing.
“She always came to me and asked for it if I forgot, so I know she liked it,” says the Bangor, Maine resident.
Kayla passed away in 2004. She was 16.
“I’ve always been glad I did massage with her,” she recalls. “It made me feel good to do something positive for her, knowing there wasn’t much I could do about her aging process.”
LaPointe isn’t the only one. More and more people are starting to realize massage improves, and in some cases even extends, the life of their older dogs.
Through books, DVDs and workshops owners can learn the skills necessary to perform this ancient form of healing. There are also canine massage professionals throughout the country.
Sandra Miller, DVM, of Creature Comforts in Burlington, Wisconsin, became certified in veterinary massage and rehabilitation six years ago.
“People are … more open to massage for them and think, ‘Wow this works so well on me, why wouldn’t this help my pet as well?’” says Miller who practices both western and holistic medicine.
Not only does the therapy provide natural relief from arthritic pain, she says, but it also helps frail dogs improve their strength.
In some cases, older dogs become so weak they can’t walk outside and relieve themselves. By doing the right type of massage, she says those muscles can be built back up.
Before beginning a regimen, though, Miller recommends consulting with a certified provider because dogs can literally be rubbed the wrong way. She says using too much pressure, for example, can cause seizures in dogs with liver problems.
During one session, Miller teaches owners techniques that are appropriate for their dog’s needs and health concerns. Clients then take on the daily task.
Jonathan Rudinger owns the PetMassage Health and Fitness Center in Toldeo, Ohio. The 5,200 square-foot facility has a heated indoor pool, treadmills and trampolines – all for dogs!
Private training sessions are also available for owners who want to learn canine massage.
“It’s a great way for people to give something back to their own dogs,” he says.
Rudinger, a licensed human massage therapist for 15 years before opening the center in 1997, recommends a variation of the human massage Watsu. During this 15 minute session, dogs float in a 90 degree heated pool, supported by the therapist while gently being rubbed.
“It’s really therapeutic for older dogs with issues of arthritis or pain in their joints,” he says.
To find a certified canine therapist ask your veterinarian, local animal massage school, or visit the International Association of Animal Massage and Bodywork (IAAMB) at www.iaamb.org
Keep in mind state laws vary widely on who can professionally perform animal massage. Some only allow veterinarians while others require therapists to be qualified to work on humans first. Call your state veterinary board for regulations or log-on to the IAAMB website for a list of laws by state.
~ Staff, SeniorDogs.com
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