Welcome to Dog Massage by George Hand (CTMT)(CSMT)

My first massage was on a fox terrier with back issues. His owner was very concerned because she could tell he was in obvious pain. After one 30 minute session, she could immediately tell his back was better aligned and he no longer hurt when he moved. There are many benefits from alleviating some pain from arthritis to simply getting that younger dog used to being touched.

Speak with Veterinarian

Massage is not, nor is it intended to be a substitute for veterinary care. It is a complimentary form of health care. Always speak with your veterinarian to make sure massage is right for your dog. Please keep me informed of any changes in your dog, either physical or emotional. When seeking out a professional massage therapist for your canine always make sure they are properly trained in canine massage. Too many people are offering canine massage without the necessary training.

Pet Nutrition

Massage is an excellent tool to compliment proper pet nutrition. Understanding ingredients is very important in making a decision on what food to buy. Wheat and corn are known allergens. By products are things like beaks and feet ground up. For good skin care, good food and massage are key. Food consultations are available.

Dog Massage Benefits

• Relieves pain from arthritis, hip dysplasia, luxating patella, and other ailments.
• Alleviates stress caused by seperation anxiety, vet and groomer visits, prior abuse, and loss of another pet.
• Loosens tight muscles and increases flexibility and range of motion.
• Prepares body for surgery and reduces time after surgery or injury.
• Increased blood circulation helps growing bones receive their nutrients, especially calcium and phosphorous
• Releases endorphins that work as the body's natural painkiller and provides a feeling of well-being.
• Benefits young dogs as they learn to feel comfortable with people touching their paws, which makes for easy nail cutting and grooming. Massaging their gums promote circulation and healthy teeth growth and a full body massage relieves growing pains and helps build their immune system.
• Older dogs benefit in that massage relieves aches and pains and is useful in assessing your dog for any physical changes and helps maintain their immune system.
• Increases bone density and builds muscle mass.
• Reduces edema
• Respiratory problems are common in dogs bred with challenging respiratory genetics such as Shih Tzu, Boxer, Bulldog, Pug and Pekingnese. Massage can enhance their ability to breathe.
• Agility, flyball, freestyle and all sports dogs: Massage helps warm up the body in order to improve performance and reduce risk of injury. Helps to cool down the body both mentally and physically. Massage and stretching pre and post performance helps in assessing the muscles for any changes and rids muscle of tension.