Treat your Dog with Acupressure
Soothe Pain
Chronic pain is one of the most underdiagnosed problems in veterinary medicine. Dogs are unable to verbalize what they are experiencing and it is up to us to interpret their behaviour. Just like humans, every dog has a unique pain tolerance level. What could cause one dog to shriek in pain might not even make another dog flinch. Symptoms that might indicate your pup is suffering from joint pain caused by osteoarthritis include:
- Limping
- Stiffness
- Lethargy
- Difficulty Urinating or Defacating
- Difficulty Getting Up
- Difficulty Finding Comfort
- Reluctance To Play Favorite Games or To Go on Walks
- Crankiness/Mood Changes
Acupressure has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for thousands of years. It is a powerful technique that every dog owner can learn! Follow the simple instructions below and you’ll soon be able to help your furry companion feeling better! When the dog is treated regularly acupressure can play an important role in supporting treatments & medications prescribed by your vet & acupuncturist.
in the groove above the carpal joint.
between the 1st (dewclaw) & 2nd finger.
1,5 cun away from the midline in the 10th intercostal space. (when you start couting from the last rib it is the 3rd)
on the midline in front of the first (easily palpable) 1st thoracic vertebra.
1,5 cun away from the midline, between 2nd & 3rd lumbar vertebra.
between 2nd & 3rd toe.
between 4th & 5th toe.
in the deep groove over the hock joint.
Massage Techniques
- The Thumb Technique: During this technique, you’ll use the soft and fleshy part of your thumb at a 45 – 90° angle to the dog’s body. It’s best to use the thumb technique on the trunk of the body or the limbs of large dogs.
- The Two-Finger Technique: To perform this technique, place your middle finger over your nail on your pointer finger, making a small tent between the two fingers. Then apply the soft portion of the pointer finger at a 45-90° angle from the dog’s body
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Acupressure for Dogs
Meet likeminded dog owners who are dedicated to helping their dogs feel better and live longer. The group's purpose is building a community of caring pet owners who share their knowledge and support each other.
Additionally educational material from our Guide to Acupressure will be posted building an expanding resource on canine acupressure.
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Learn more about Acupressure
Do you want to learn more about canine acupressure?
Dont miss our Acupressure Basics covering:
- Background of Acupressure
- Anatomy
- How to prepare for a session
- Meridians
- Massage Techniques
- How to treat pain