Guest post by Ash Stevens:
Hollywood is brimming with pet spas staffed by hair stylists, beauticians, and trainers. They even have certified massage therapists. This kind of pampering has a lot of us laughing in disbelief, but the area of massage is something actually worth consideration…
Masseuse’s began considering animal clientele back in the 70’s thanks to Jack Meagher — a masseuse for equestrian racers. He developed his “sports massage” approach to therapy which he later tried on race horses. The idea of equine massage was highly controversial back then (Massaging animals — Really?), but years later the idea has now grown by leaps and bounds.
Animal massage schools have popped up across the United States to offer therapeutic touch to dogs, cats, in addition to horses. But whatever animal may be on the massage table, there’s a list of potential benefits that science is considering.
Pain & Tension
We’re all familiar with how massage can ease tense muscles and reduce the pains of movement, but it may lessen nerve compression too. The benefits can even be boiled down to a microscopic level. In 2012, a study was published on the cellular impact of massage which revealed the truth behind it’s rumored benefits. Participants performed intense aerobic exercise which was followed by a 10 minute massage on one leg. When all was said and done, legs that had received massage following physical activity had a drop in the cytokines responsible for pain and inflammation.
Circulation & Healing
Aside from pain relief, massage also helps to improve circulation. This obviously benefits a body by helping the body’s natural flow of nutrients and wastes, but it can also bolster the healing process. This can be especially helpful with older animals with compromised mobility. As a bonus, touching your livestock will have you familiar with your body. Should abnormalities come up, you’ll be able to take note of them and bring any concerns to your veterinarian.
Mood
For us humans, a good massage is the equivalent of an induced coma. Having tight and painful muscles soothed can be as pleasurable as it is relieving, and it does wonders to soothe anxieties too. Focusing on the touch of our masseuse helps us to focus our awareness on the present moment. That right there works magic with stressed bodies and minds. On top of that though, massage can actually reduce stress hormones and increase serotonin. So not only does massage provoke a more peaceful state, but it can also encourage a happier frame of mind. We may not be able to get animals to explain how massage affects their emotional well-being, but it’s safe to say it poses benefits.
Bonding
Aside from the potential effects on an animal’s mood, massage gets raves for promoting closer human-animal relationships. Simply taking the time to spend with your livestock promotes bonding and encourages trust. Massage time also allows you the opportunity to get to know your animal. The more time you spend with them, the more familiar you’ll become with their likes and dislikes. You’ll also be able to see catch their funny quirks and learn their nonverbal cues of communication.
Ash Stevens is a writer and wannabe shaman. When she isn’t being serious writing or talking family and relationships on her blog, she’s listening to stand-up comedy and soaking up some sunshine. Find her on Twitter or Facebook and make a new friend!
Massage is so great for our horses! I also do reiki and essential oils on horses, Most people say they don't understand what I'm doing but they notice a good difference in their horse.