I have taken myself on study leave to Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Kanab, Utah and today, they lined up 10 dogs for me to work with. It was a jam-packed day.
First on the list was return customer, Google. A Blue Heeler x Australian Cattle dog cross, I massaged Google two years ago during my last visit (see Re-visiting Old Friends). Google has long-standing neck issues thanks to being kept on a chain early in his life. He receives chiropractic adjustments every two months. Google has been at Dogtown for 7 years; he’s now 10. Google prefers to be adopted into a home where he will be the only-dog (and possibly the reason why it is taking him so long to find a home).
Massage definitely has a role to play in animal sheltering. Keeping a dog comfortable in the kennel environment, particularly when they have physical challenges, is essential so the dog puts his/her best paw forward when prospective adopters come visiting.
Massage therapists look for the ‘soft eyes’ of a relaxed client. Here’s a selfie to show you what I mean.
Good boy, Google!
Kathleen Crisley, specialist in dog massage, rehabilitation and nutrition/food therapy, The Balanced Dog, Christchurch, New Zealand
DoggyMom.com 