Massage Goes to the Dogs (and Cats)

This article was originally published in the February, 2014 edition of the A-DOG monthly newsletter Wags and Tags.  The author, Janice Zazinski, is an A-DOG member:

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If you have ever had a massage for relaxation you know how it transforms your body into a melted pat of butter. And studies show that athletes who receive regular sports massages perform better and recover from injury more quickly than their peers. I’m a student of small animal massage at the Bancroft School of Massage Therapy in Worcester, which has offered this program for more than a decade. Now in my internship phase, I’m very excited to bring this holistic, complementary care to our beloved feline and canine companions, and would like to offer your dog or cat a free relaxing, health-giving massage! [I also intern at Mill Brook Animal Clinic … if you are a patient of Dr. Fallon’s you will also see me there for a few months.] Why massage a dog or cat? For the same reasons we humans enjoy and benefit from a massage … here are just a few:

• Regular massage keeps your active companion – of any age — in top condition and helps prevent muscle strain from overuse.

• Along with veterinary care, massages help young animals suffering from hip dysplasia and other structural issues retain function and comfort.

• Animals that have been injured or have had surgery often need rehabilitation to heal and return to their active lives. Small animal massage can play a significant role in this rehabilitation process by helping to reduce pain and swelling, expedite healing, and maintaining muscle tone.

• Massage stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, thus promoting relaxation and decreasing anxiety. This is beneficial for newly-adopted animals, as well in households that are in transition because of issues such as a new family member.

• In senior animals, massage helps keep joints and soft tissues flexible.

Massages are approximately one hour long (including an intake) and are conducted in your home, by appointment. (During the first massage, you should be home and plan to stay in the room.) If you are a client of Mill Brook Animal Clinic, I can also do the massage there on Tuesday or Thursday afternoons. Although I am an intern, I am insured to practice massage on your companion. So why not treat your furry friend to a free massage that feels great and can enhance her health? Contact me at 617-323-3349 or at janice@belovedcompanion.com to set up an appointment or for more information about me or massage. I look forward to meeting you and your beloved companion very soon.