The Growth In The Requirement For Canine Massage

In the last few years, there has been an increased interest in massage therapy for dogs (canine massage). Many websites offer their services for canine massage; also, there are a number of schools that offer courses and qualification in canine massage.

The first question that people usually ask is "Why would a dog need a massage?"

Since your canine friend is so precious to you, don't you want to improve his/her total health care and quality of life?
Like people, dogs understand the significance and the implications of a caring and curing touch.

Canine massage contains many of the same techniques used on people, and gives the same results. However, it should never be a replacement for veterinarian care but rather a supplement.

Sessions usually last between 30 minutes to an hour, and take place on a massage table.

In most cases, the dog's owner is asked to be present during the session, since he understands what is being done to the dog and can help to control him and keep him calm.
Canines need massages for the same reasons as people:

• To expedite recuperation from wounds and illnesses (especially surgery)
• To enhance blood circulation and lymph drainage
• To relax through control of heart rate and respiration
• To help reduce muscle tension and achiness
• To reduce swelling and scarring
• To improve flexibility and performance (especially for competitive dogs)
• To sooth nervous temperaments
• To help reduce signs of aging
• To aid the removal of metabolic waste
• Pampering

Another popular canine therapy is hydrotherapy (treatment of disease by means of water). It is probably the oldest form of medical treatment among people, and now it is used for canines. One of the advantages of hydrotherapy is that it is also helps control the dog's weight by enhancing physical activities and loosening stiff joints.

Some of the canine massage salons include extra services, more for fostering, like grooming; nail care, treatment for leeches and showering and perfuming.
As with any other profession that faces different risks every day, canine massage professionals need to protect themselves.

The emergence of canine salons has made it necessary to include public and/or general liability as well. A variety of situations can arise that will expose them to potential financial or legal liability, and, in some cases, may lead to lawsuits. It is for this reason that canine massage professionals should hold professional liability insurance policies.

(Sandy Leibovich is Customer Service Officer at Sinclair Insurance Company)

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