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.