Effleurage involves using gentle, long strokes with your palm, starting from the puppy's head and moving down towards the tail and feet. This technique not only helps in improving blood circulation but also encourages relaxation. Begin with light pressure and gradually increase it as your puppy becomes more comfortable.
Using the tips of your fingers, apply small, circular motions alongside the spine and around muscles. Avoid pressing directly over bones to prevent discomfort. Fingertip massage can effectively relieve tension in stiff muscles and enhance flexibility.
Petrissage combines kneading motions with effleurage and fingertip massage techniques. It involves gently grasping and lifting the skin and muscles, which may help in eliminating waste products from sore muscles. However, be cautious as some puppies may find this technique slightly intense.
Professional therapists often use specific massage techniques combined with targeted muscle stretching to improve circulation and muscle flexibility in dogs.
Electrostimulation therapy involves the use of electrical currents to stimulate muscles, helping to alleviate pain and promote muscle recovery.
Treadmills and whirlpools are utilized to provide controlled exercise and muscle stimulation. Swimming in heated pools equipped with adjustable jets can aid in rehabilitation by offering resistance training and soothing sore muscles.
The underwater treadmill is a specialized rehabilitation tool that supports dogs in strengthening weak or previously injured areas without the discomfort of weight-bearing exercise. It operates by gradually filling a chamber with warm water, allowing dogs to walk in a low-impact environment that promotes healing and muscle conditioning.