Canine Acupressure:
A Healing Touch for You and Your Dog
"We've seen a huge shift in
the awareness people have of alternative modalities for
animals over the years," says Nancy Zidonis and Amy
Snow, co-authors of The Well-Connected Dog and AcuCat. "People
are opening up to the 'healing arts' rather than just the
'practice of medicine, and our new books provide an explanation
of the history, theory of acupressure and its applications
for companion animals."
The basic elements of acupressure are
the same as for humans and can be used to treat acute as
well as chronic health problems. In traditional Oriental
thought, every human and animal is born with a fixed amount
of life energy, or Chi, at birth. Chi flows through the
body in pathways known as meridians. The meridian pathways
carry messages from the acupressure points to specific organs
or parts of the body.
Stimulation of points can produce endorphins,
which reduce pain; relieve muscle spasms; increase blood
supply to ailing areas; release the body's natural cortisone,
to reduce swelling; even antibody production can be measurably
increased.
The basic acupressure treatments are based
on four steps and the owner's participation. "There
is a unique element in healing that can occur more readily
when the person who is related to the animal is the one
doing the touching of the animal," Nancy interjects.
Step 1)
The Art of Observing - study of the animal in its environment,
during treatment, and after treatment
Step 2)
Introducing Yourself -- by talking, petting, and then asking
permission to work on your companion.
Step 3)
Structure Touch, The Opening - the use of the heel of your
hand to work from behind the skull to the outside of the
hind leg, known as the bladder meridian.
Step 4)
The point work -- the nucleus of the acupressure treatment.
Point work, which can be done with a thumb or finger, brings
balance to the meridian system and facilitates the healing
process.
"Acupressure and bodywork offer an
exciting and rewarding opportunity for you to involve yourself
with your loving and loyal pet." For more information
on acupressure clinics or to order The Well-Connected Dog
and AcuCat contact us by email or 1-800-738-4584.
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