Colder weather and how it can affect our dogs.

With the warmer days coming to a close in Australia, and the colder days of Autumn and Winter starting, you need to make sure your dogs are kept warm.  

Some dogs are more susceptible to feeling the cold especially older dogs and those that suffer with joint problems.  

Some simple things that will help to make your dog feel more cosy.

* A raised bed off the ground such as a trampoline bed.
* A dog coat to keep the chills away.
* A heat pad is especially good for older dogs and those that suffer from joint stiffness.
* If your dog lives outdoors make sure they have a warm kennel with thick cosy bedding.
* If your dog gets wet, make sure you dry them off well, particularly before they settle for the night. Having a damp coat will not help a dog that suffers with joint problems.

Like humans, dogs really enjoy a good massage, so why not treat them to some this winter. Massage will help to relieve aching muscles and joints which is quite often brought on by the cold weather. They will love you for it.

- Written by Heather Brook. - 2012

I pet my dog all the time, he/she really enjoys it so why is massage different?

As a Canine Massage Therapist I am frequently told by loving owners "I pet my dog all the time, he/she really enjoys it so why is massage different?"

I explain to owners that while “Fido” most certainly enjoys all the petting that is given to him/her it is not the same as having a good doggy massage. The reason for the difference between petting and massage is a purposeful and intentional technique of touching your dog. The strokes are controlled in the amount of pressure, direction and intention that you use. It’s also an effective way of detecting and relieving many health problems, aids in healing and helps reduce hyperactivity, nervousness and anxiety in dogs. It also has great benefits to offer older dogs that suffer from chronic and degenerative disorders and also include things like arthritis, stiffness of joints and decreased range of motion.  Massage can be used as a partial substitute for exercise as it helps maintain and increase blood circulation and flexibility. We as healers, handlers and caretakers of our precious canine companions should become alert to changes and other warning signals that may require professional veterinary attention. 


-Written by Heather Brook. (copyright 2010)