Massaging your dog is a nice way to help your dog and develop a trusting relationship. There are massage therapists trained and highly skilled in animal massage and this is the best way to get your dog a truly healing, relaxing massage. However, there are some things you can do to help your dog relax and loosen his muscles. Wait till your dog is calm, perhaps after a walk or at the end of the day. Pet him all over so he gets used to you handling his body. Massage the neck and shoulders using circular movements. Keep pressure gentle but purposeful as you work along the body of the muscle and along the connections to bone. Move over the entire body massaging in a direction away from the heart. Don’t neglect the legs, feet and toes. Gently stretching usually feels good to dogs. For more information, contact your Carolina Forest, SC veterinarian. Visit this website Waccamaw Animal Hospital to learn more.