McKinney, TX - Kneaded Pets - Animal Massage (2024)

FAQs

Do animals like being massaged? ›

In Dr. Blotevogel's experience, most dogs enjoy massage. High-energy dogs can be a challenge as they have a hard time sitting still, but she does her best with what the dog is willing to give.

Most massages last between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the size of the animal. Pets typically enjoy massage and relax during treatments.

Massaging is not only beneficial to an animal's physical well-being but to their mental stability as well. So, is a pet owner massaging their pet by simply petting or rubbing it in a casual manner? Not really. Dog massaging is drastically different than what one might think it is.

Through direct work on a dog's soft tissues, canine massage can improve blood flow, alleviate stress, reduce pain, relax tight and sore muscles, and help heal sprains and strains. In addition, many believe it also strengthens the immune system, improves digestion, and lowers blood pressure.

In addition to its distinction as the fastest-eating mammal known, the star-nosed mole also possesses one of the most sensitive tactile organs known in the animal kingdom. The star on its nose has the highest density of nerve endings known in any mammalian skin, with over 100,000 fibers in a patch of skin about 1 cm.

Any domesticated animal can be an emotional support animal; however, the most popular by far is dogs. Some popular dog breeds for ESAs include golden retrievers, Labrador retrievers, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, poodles and Yorkshire terriers.

In fact, research shows that dog brains release the love hormone Oxytocin when they're petted and given attention from a human.

Your own family pet may enjoy being petted along the back and sides, having the area under the ears scratched, having the top of their head rubbed or getting a good belly scratch.

Do dogs like when we kiss them? Most dogs love kisses from their owners, with many associating it with love and attention. Some signs that they are enjoying it include wagging their tails, looking alert and happy, and licking you back.

When should you not massage your dog? ›

Conditions where there is an infectious or contagious disease such as Kennel Cough, Distemper, Enteritis, or any viral or bacterial related illness, a massage should not be performed. Massage can cause in-season canines significant increase in blood flow, resulting in hemorrhaging for a female.

Use long, slow strokes on their back, belly and other body parts where they enjoy being touched. Start at the back of your dog's neck, applying gentle pressure in a circular motion with your fingertips.. Work your fingers down and apply gentle pressure in a circular motion between your dog's shoulder blades.

Petting gives animals a similar sensation to grooming, which is a social behavior where animals pick at and stroke each other's fur. Grooming releases endorphins, a hormone that relaxes and soothes animals. So when you pet your animal, they feel the same, comforting feelings as being stroked and groomed.

Dog's Perspective

Most dogs love to be massaged; they love the attention and, let's face it, being massaged usually feels pretty good. You will, however, need to be gentle and introduce your dog gradually to being touched in sensitive areas.

Just like when you go get a relaxing massage, your cat can enjoy one, too. A gentle massage does wonders to help lower anxiety, relieve tension, and relax your cat's muscles after a hard day. Plus, it can strengthen the bond between you two. If your cat is old or sick, a massage can help them fall asleep, too.

According to a new study on human-cow interactions, animals that experience tender stroking in conjunction with live communication—as opposed to recorded voices—are more likely to enter a state of blissful relaxation afterward.