Just a quick update on where I am this week for my Joyful Paws Jaunt tour promoting “Through Frankie’s Eyes.” Catch me tonight on Talk 2 the Animals radio show. Show begins at 8:00pm CST. Leave a comment by 4:00pm TODAY on Talk 2 the Animals blog for a chance to win a signed copy I’m giving away! Friday I’ll be doing a book signing (Joie will be joining me!) at Cassy Tully – Fine Art from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. More details here!
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On March 23rd I attended a seminar to learn how to do relaxation massage for dogs. It was given by Dr. Ann Margaret Morgan from Pewaukee Veterinary Services. As you might recall they are doing three separate dates to teach owners how to do this for their dogs. In lieu of payment for the seminar they are asking for donations for the Frankie Wheelchair Fund. I’m happy and thrilled to say to date they have raised $671!
The seminar was fantastic! Dr. Morgan believes in empowering pet owners to help their pets the best they can. Relaxation massage was pretty easy to learn, though Joie was a bit nervous among all the other dogs. If another dog barked she got especially agitated. I did have to take her outside at one time because she was not herself. But after a little fresh air and sunshine, she settled back in nicely.
We were taught a series of strokes to guide our dogs into relaxation. And I have to say is once Joie relaxed and we moved through the strokes, I found myself feeling quite relaxed also. It’s a win-win for both pet and you! Joie seemed to really like the gentle rocking which was an additional technique we learned. Just so lightly you cup their body with your hands and rock them back and forth which helps loosen tissue.
Once we learned each stroke and each additional technique we then put it all together in a series. It was truly a rewarding experience to know I was helping Joie relax and feel good. And as you can see in the next photo these two dogs were totally chilled out! More photos here.
Relaxing massage is good for all dogs and especially for dogs such as Joie who may have IVDD or dogs with arthritis. Massage benefits them as greatly as it does for us to have one. Now if only your dog could turn around and give YOU a massage, right?
I’d encourage you to check in your area if anyone offers this type of seminar, or check with your vet if they’d be willing to offer this. The next one in Pewaukee, WI at Pewaukee Veterinary Services in May 4th, 2013.
Again, a huge and big thank you to all those who have attended to far and made the very generous donations for the Frankie Wheelchair Fund!!