How to Treat Dog Arthritis at Home Through Massage

Canine arthritis is a common debilitating condition that affects dogs at any age, not just old dogs. Physical therapy can relieve the pain caused by arthritis in dogs, in the same way that it works for humans. Massaging your dog regularly alleviates stiff body muscles, improves joint mobility and slows down the degenerative process. Using simple techniques, you can give your dog a relaxing and rejuvenating massage in the confines of your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Essential oils
  • Massage carrier oil
  • Bowl
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Instructions

    • 1

      Allocate an area in your house that is warm and comfortable for the massage session, which should last no longer than 15 minutes. A warm environment will help to relax your arthritic dog's joints and ligaments.

    • 2

      Dilute a few drops of an essential oil, such as ginger, peppermint or eucalyptus, with a massage carrier oil in a bowl. Essential oils serve to reduce painful and inflamed joints and muscles.

    • 3

      Make your dog sit or lay down for the massage. Dip the balls of your fingers in the bowl containing the essential oil and gently stroke the affected area, starting at the front end of the body. Hold the dog firmly in place with the other hand. The gentle stroking motion will increase blood circulation to the area.

    • 4

      Knead the muscles surrounding the joint with your fingertips, gently rotating them in short, circular strokes. Intersperse the circular stroke massage with the gentle stroking action to assist lymphatic drainage.

    • 5

      Massage downward along the neck, on either side of the spine, torso and the legs. Round up the massage by kneading the limb muscles and gently stroking the dog's entire body.