| When done properly, massage relaxes hypertonic | | | | stroke is performed with the palm and fingers in |
| (tight) muscles, provides a feeling of emotional | | | | a methodical, rhythmical manner. Petrissage |
| comfort, and improves blood circulation. Having | | | | stimulates the skin and improves muscle tone. It |
| adequate blood circulation is essential, because it is | | | | can improve the elimination of toxins and waste |
| the blood stream that provides a fresh supply of | | | | products that have accumulated in the tissues. |
| oxygen and nutrients to the surrounding tissues | | | | This massage stroke can be performed with one |
| of the body. Massage can break down adhesions | | | | or both hands. |
| (knots) and promote healing after muscle exertion | | | | Stroking is commonly used at the end of a |
| and fatigue. It can reduce anxiety and increase | | | | massage. It involves the rubbing of the hands |
| mobility. These benefits apply to not only humans, | | | | against the fur and skin, without pressing hard |
| but also extend to our four-footed friends. Pet | | | | enough to affect your pet's deeper tissues. Any |
| massage is now recognized as not only being | | | | part of the hands and fingers can be used. |
| calming for your beloved cat or dog, but it is | | | | As you gain experience with massaging your pet, |
| excellent relaxation therapy for the human | | | | experiment with using different parts of your |
| providing the massage as well. | | | | hands during the massage. Your pet may also |
| Like all art forms, one's ability to massage | | | | enjoy being brushed as a part of the massage. |
| improves with regular practice. There are a | | | | There are a variety of pet brushes available. |
| number of massage strokes that most pets will | | | | Select one that your pet receives the most |
| enjoy. Be gentle and take your cues from your | | | | pleasure from. |
| pet. Effleurage is a type of massage stroke that | | | | As in the case of human massage, there are |
| is deliberately light, and done in a gliding-type | | | | contraindications for pet massage, which include, |
| motion. This gentle stroke often occurs at the | | | | but are not limited to: infection, open cuts, burns, |
| beginning of a massage, in order to "warm up" | | | | inflammation, brittle bones, pregnancy, recent |
| the muscles in preparation for deeper massage. In | | | | surgery, and serious health conditions. If you |
| effleurage, strokes are generally made toward | | | | doubt the safety of a particular movement, do |
| the heart. This assists in the return of blood to | | | | not perform it. It is often best if you consult your |
| the heart and is thought to facilitate proper | | | | veterinarian before beginning a massage regimen. |
| circulation. | | | | Massage is a wonderful way to bond with your |
| Petrissage is a deeper, kneading massage stroke | | | | dog or cat. Set aside a quiet time each week for |
| used after the muscles have already received | | | | pet massage. You will be amazed at the |
| increased blood flow through effleurage. This | | | | difference in your beloved animal. |