Canine and Feline Therapy Methods (Massage and Acupuncture)
CANINE/FELINE ACUPUNCTURE AND MASSAGE THERAPY
It is well known how massage and acupuncture benefit’s humans. It is an holistic approach for natural healing of the body. Since it is good for mankind it stands to reason it would be good for dogs and cats too.
What is massage therapy for animals? – Massage therapy for animals is a touch technique used to maintain and improve physical and mental health. It has been practiced for thousands of years on people. In more recent years, people have realized how beneficial massage can be for animals. Massage can help prevent injuries and aid the body with healing. Animal massage causes your pet’s body to release endorphins, which are the natural chemical that relieves pain and makes your pet feel good. Massage can strengthen the bond between you and your pet.
HISTORY OF HUMAN ACUPUNCTURE AND MASSAGE THERAPY
Acupuncture originated in China. It dates back between 1500 BC and 3000 BC. It is estimated massage has been around for at least 5,000 years. Some say it was created between 2, 000 to 4,000 years ago.
In the 20th century massage gained popularity as a method of healing for WWI patients. Later in the 20th century is when it became mainstream. Prior to that outside of military use the public saw it as a luxury and others saw it as an immoral part of the sex industry.
The human touch can be very healing to relieve pain and reduce stress. Massage relaxes muscle tissue which is beneficial for when there is nerve compression. It can increase range of motion and flexibility. Circulation helps in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to muscle cells. It helps to flush waste products.
Acupuncture focuses on energy throughout the body. It helps to release energy blockages. It can help with emotional issues such as anxiety and depression. It can help with physical disorders such as nausea, vomiting and irritable bowel syndrome.
CANINE MASSAGE
It wasn’t until recent years massage was used to benefit dogs. The techniques have been very successful with helping healing, temperament, their skin and coats. It helps with flexibility especially in older dogs.
Wikipedia: Canine massage is a branch of massage therapy that promotes health in dogs. Specifically, canine massage therapy is a form of alternative therapy the benefits of which may include relaxation, increased oxygenation, relief from pain, improved joint flexibility, as well as miscellaneous benefits to the immune system. It uses touch to maintain or improve both physical and emotional well-being.
Video: Canine Massage Therapy Offers New Lease on Life – “Canine massage therapy gave “Mitt” a new lease on life. Suffering from Lymes Disease and Hip Dysplasia at the young age of 4, Mitt was in pain and barely able to walk. After a series of massages, he is back to his happy, playful self – Be sure to see the “Sequel” above to see how Mitt is doing!”
FELINE MASSAGE
Massage for cats has become an effective way to benefit and calm cats. It helps a cat’s physical and mental health. It can improve their skin and coat. It helps with flexibility especially in older cats.
CANINE AND FELINE ACUPUNCTURE
Acupuncture has gained acceptance in veterinary medicine. It is used to help strengthen muscles while relieving pain.
PetMD – “Acupuncture for Pets: From a Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) perspective, veterinary acupuncture encourages healing by correcting energy imbalances in the body. Acupuncture enhances blood circulation, nervous system stimulation, and the release of anti-inflammatory and pain relieving hormones.”
Veterinary Acupuncture – “Acupuncture involves the insertion of small gauge needles to various points on the body in order to cause physiological responses in the body. Acupuncture works by stimulating nerve endings near acupuncture points. These nerve fibers then conduct impulses to the brain and spinal cord, causing changes in the body that speed healing. Animal owners are showing a growing interest in this field in an effort to find the best care for their pets, especially when conventional medicine and surgery options may not have been successful. Learn more by watching this interesting video.”
What Can Veterinary Acupuncture Do for My Dog or Cat?
Veterinary acupuncture stimulates the release of the body’s own pain relieving and anti-inflammatory substances.
Relaxation of muscles at the site of needle insertion and more distant locations body is achieved with veterinary acupuncture treatment, creating both a local and generalized pain relieving effect.
Veterinary acupuncture improves tissue blood flow, oxygenation, and removal of metabolic wastes and toxins.
Unlike prescription and over the counter pain medications, veterinary acupuncture lacks potential adverse side effects for your pet’s internal organs.
Your pet’s medications or supplements will not adversely interact with veterinary acupuncture treatment; therefore it can safely be used to treat a variety of illnesses.
CONCLUSION
Veterinary techniques, science and technological advances have been beneficial to pets. With massage and acupuncture dogs and cats can live out their lives with mobility while overcoming challenges.
With human intervention they can play, frolic and enjoy being the playful dogs and cats they were meant to be.
