The Dog in Balance Body, Mind & Spirit

Module 1 – Canine Massage and the Body in Balance

Touch of any type has an effect on a dog’s body and initiates feelings of comfort, euphoria, pain or any of a host of other sensations. Instinctive or spontaneous touch characterized by a mother licking and nudging her pups supplies contact necessary for proper social and physical development. Self-licking, another form of spontaneous touch, is a ready self remedy for aches and injuries. Intentional touch or massage can supply many of the same benefits and more. A discussion of the 11 body systems highlights functions, sensory receptors and the effects of massage on the body.

	Nerves Communication

Module 2 – Canine Massage and the Nervous System

The nervous system, the master controlling system of the body, provides rapid communication between all body parts to keep the body in balance. This class explains how the nervous system works with emphasis on its communication with the integumentary and muscular systems. Sensory receptors that monitor changes in the internal and external environments are explained. Special attention is given to the influences of sensory exteroceptors and how proper stimulation can calm, decrease stress, decrease anxiety, soothe pain & encourage healing or stimulate the dog for work or competition.

	Skin - The Body's Wrapper

Module 3 – Canine Massage and the Integumentary System

Canine Massage and the Integumentary System covers the basic structure and functions of the skin and its appendages. Skin is the largest organ in the body and contains 5 million sensory receptors. Special attention is paid to the types of receptors present and the effect of massage on them. A discussion of the many types of canine coats, also considers the influence of coat type on massage.

	Skeleton - The Dog's Frame

Module 4 – Canine Massage and the Skeletal System

Canine Massage and the Skeletal System deals with the function of cartilage and the 321 bones of the canine skeletal system. Bone, the axial, appendicular and splanchnic components of the skeletal system, joints and ligaments are described and discussed. Bone, joint and ligament sensory receptors are considered and the roles they play in canine function and canine massage are stressed.

	Muscles - Body Movers

Module 5 – Canine Massage and the Muscular System

The canine muscular system produces movement, stabilizes joints, maintains posture and generates heat. The online presentation, Canine Massage and the Muscular System, describes these functions compares the three types of muscle tissue, their characteristics, structure and functions. This class also explains how muscle cells interact with the circulatory and nervous systems to produce smooth integrated movement. The importance of the powerful influence of massage on the muscular system is also addressed.

Module 6 – Canine Massage and the Circulatory & Lymphatic Systems

	Circulatory System Delivers the goods Removes the wastes		Lymphatic System Clean-up detail

Canine Massage and the Circulatory & Lymphatic Systems explains how every cell in the dog’s body relies on the circulatory system to deliver oxygen and nutrients and remove wastes and toxins. The lymphatic system also removes wastes, toxins and debris and defends the body from disease. Learn how interoceptors in both systems can be stimulated by a warm hand (massage stroke). The results can dramatically increase circulation, decrease the workload of the heart and even encourage drainage of swollen lymph nodes and more.

	Sue and some of her friends. Spend quality time with your dogs. It enriches the massage experience.

Module 7 – Introduction to Canine Massage Techniques

Introduction to Massage Techniques explains:

• the benefits of massage to the dog
• indications and contraindications for massage
• setting the stage for massage
• considerations before you begin

	Two-handed effleurage is truly Petting with a Purpose

Module 8 – Canine Massage Techniques: Passive Touch & Effleurage

• Passive touch
  • calm and warm the dog
  • resting position – invading a dog's space
  • warming passive touch to soothe & heal
• Effleurage – skim the surface of the dog with these strokes:
  • prepare for deeper work
  • increase circulation

	Thumb glide to find tight spots and release muscle tension

Module 9 – Canine Massage Techniques: Pestrissage & Compression

• Petrissage – knead out the toxins
  • increases circulation
  • mobilizes toxins
• Compression – press the issue
  • relaxing compression
  • stimulating compression

	Fire starter can light a fire in a dog's lower limbs by warming ligaments and muscles.

Module 10 – Canine Massage Techniques: Friction

• Friction turns up the heat to warm tissues, increase circulation and much more.
• Linear friction and cross-fiber friction play important roles in canine massage.

	Cupping loosens phlegm and congestion in the lungs.

Module 11 – Canine Massage Techniques: Percussion

• Percussion invigorates nerve endings to stimulate and heighten awareness.
• Different percussion strokes serve different functions.

	Passive stretching can be performed on a standing or reclining dog.

Module 12 – Canine Massage Techniques: Stretch

• Stretching elongates muscles increasing flexibility, range of motion and elasticity.
• Passive and active stretches reduce the risk of injury to a dog.

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(Either 100% Online or 50% Online and 50% On-Site )