1. By Jamie Naumann

2. Massage is the manipulation of superficial layers of muscle and connective tissue to enhance the function and promote relaxation and well-being Massage initiates the process of self restoration and healing Pets may benefit from massage and other therapies the same way as humans do

3. Benefits Decrease muscle soreness Boost the immune system Improve the quality and symmetry of movement Support better joint health and function Promote earlier detection of stresses and strains Stimulate circulation for greater health of all tissues Help reduce risk, severity, and frequency of injuries Improve athletic agility and coordination Reduce the effects of stress Minimize restrictions caused by old scar tissue Reduce or eliminate adhesions, knots, and other restrictions Improve skeletal alignment for more efficient movement Release endorphins (natural pain killers) Lower blood pressure Improve digestion

4. Other benefits.. Massage can also help with behavioral problems Gaining a pet’s trust through the act of being touched Calms down a nervous or hyper pet Helps a shy or submissive pet feel more secure Relaxes an aggressive or dominant pet

5. Why use massage? Help to relax show dogs, performance dogs, police/working dogs, service animals etc. Alleviate stress a dog feels with environment change Boarding Moving to a new home Conditions Arthritis Spinal disorders Hip dysplasia Compromised immunity

6. Animals with a history of neglect or abuse can greatly benefit from massage Chance to bond Positive Touch Gain trust for humans Animals with physical disabilites Blindness Amputated limb

7. A healing tool for many animals

8. Massage Techniques http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C2Hz9E7cHno Effleurage - Gliding strokes using the palms, thumbs or fingertips. Petrissage - Deep kneading of soft tissue and muscles with the hands or thumbs and fingers. Friction - Circular movements of the thumbs, fingers, or palms of the hands using slight pressure. Vibration - Oscillatory movements that shake or vibrate select areas of the body. Tapotement (also known as Percussion) - Brisk pummeling or tapping motions on targeted areas or muscle groups.

9. Who can perform massage? A veterinarian Licensed massage therapists Even yourself Keep it light & gentle Deep massage should ONLY be performed by a professional Learn on the internet Ask a Vet to show you how!

10. Things to remember.. Make sure you know what you are doing Injure the animal OR yourself Pay attention to the animal Warning signs Do not wear out your welcome! Don't force it Not ALL animals enjoy massage Never massage a dog you don't know well Avoid pressing at all on the stomach; you could damage internal organs

11. Schooling Certification Workshops Northwest School of Animal Massage Animal Spirit Healing & Education ® Network Brandenburg Massage Therapy Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure & Massage Bits of Love ~ Minneapolis Offers a training course for home pet massage for $100

12. How often? Depends on the temperament and health history of your pet Anywhere to once a month to 2-3 times a week Appointments usually last 15-30 minutes

13. Cost Prices for pets range from $30-50 dollars for 30 minutes Compared to humans -- $75 plus..

15. Works Cited Google pictures http://www.petmassage.com/articles/potential- effects-of-massage.htm http://allaboutanimalmassage.com/ http://www.iaamb.org/ http://www.pet-health- advisor.com/caninemassagetestimonials.html http://www.altmd.com/Articles/The-Use-of-Massage- in-Holistic-Pet-Care