We are proud to offer a new Pup Life Dog Care Tip article from author Jorn Oleby. Jorn explains the importance of improving your dog’s quality of life through stretching. Here is an excerpt from this fascinating look at the benefits of massage and stretching.

“Many dog owners invest considerable time being active with their dogs through obedience training, hunting activities, tracking and protection exercises at training grounds, out in the countryside or in the forest. These activities allow us to spend time with our dogs while also keeping them physically and mentally alert. Professionals including police and security guards, use dogs at work. We expect these dogs to have a well-developed physique in order to perform the work they are trained to do. A lot of time and money is spent on training a smart and efficient dog. There is considerable research and many opinions on the topics of what food and exercise is best for our dogs. We all have our animals’ best interests at heart. Good care and healthy food is essential.

No matter how well we take care of our dogs, disease and injuries do still occur. If the injury is related to the muscles, tendons, joints or ligaments a vet or physiotherapist can help. If there is a defect in the hip or elbow joints and in cases caused by poor breeding, the only treatment available is pain relief. As dog owners there is nothing we can do to repair problems related to poor breeding nor can we prevent all accidents. However we can prevent muscle related problems and strain injuries by massaging and stretching our dogs regularly. This keeps the dog well-balanced physically and psychologically, allowing him to retain the agility of a young dog to an advanced age.”

Read the full article: Improving Your Dog’s Quality of Life Through Stretching