How to Use Acupressure on Small Dogs

Acupressure, an ancient healing practice, has been gaining recognition for its ability to heal animals as well as people. All of us have had the experience of rubbing a painful area to get relief. Dogs and other animals do the same. The small dog breeds have a special problem, however, because dogs use their weight to create the pressure on an area. Have you seen a dog on her back in the park, blissfully twisting back and forth as she rubs her spine? Ever seen a small breed do this? It’s not as common because they don’t get the same sensation with their insignificant weight. So, small breeds count on us humans to rub them the right way. Here’s how to do that.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Clean hands with short nails
• A clean towel
• A soft blanket
• Quiet, calm spot in the house

1. Take a moment to relax yourself before you engage your dog. The whole point of this is relaxation and release. You can’t convince your small dog to relax if you are tense. Sit for a moment and breathe deeply, exhaling fully, at least three times. Relax your shoulders.
2. Speaking softly to your dog, pet as you do normally and invite her to come sit with you. Choose a time when she is normally the most receptive to petting.
3. Pick your dog up and place him in your lap on a soft towel. A blanket folded up can be quite helpful for making him comfortable. Allow him to settle in. Continue breathing calmly as you let him know this is a quiet time.
4. Encourage him to go down on one side and lie flat. If your dog is comfortable on her back, this can be a very good way to do acupressure. Some dogs love being on their back when they feel safe. Others will never let you turn them over like this. Listen closely to your dog’s signals.
5. Continue to speak in low, reassuring tones as you begin touching in light but firm motions, starting behind the ears and running your fingertips slowly down the spine. Your dog may jump up, letting you know she’s had enough for now. This is fine. You’ll repeat this many times, and she will probably allow longer and longer acupressure sessions.
6. Now you are ready to actually do acupressure. Your dog is relaxed in your lap. Keeping one hand on him at all times, you will run a hand down one leg to the paw. Right behind the main center pad is an acupressure point called “PC 8.” (Pericardium 8). Apply VERY GENTLE pressure to this point, paying close attention to his response. He may respond by completely relaxing. This is a signal that you are spot-on, perfect pressure, and in accord with his needs. He may also respond by gently turning his nose as if to nip you. This can mean that this point hurts, but it can also mean that he is acknowledging you. Observe carefully as you proceed through each leg so you can understand what his responses mean. If he stretches his neck out and closes his eyes, he is benefiting from the healing power of acupressure.
7. You can close the acupressure session by massaging the region between the ears and slightly in front of the ears toward the nose. There are five points called “Si Shen Cong” in this area. You may have already done this intuitively, responding to her as she relaxes under your touch. Be sure to tell her she’s a good dog. All dogs love to hear how good they are, just like humans!

Tips & Warnings

• Rather than actually pressing on an acupressure point, try gently brushing your fingertip across the area. This can be equally effective.
• Your dog is SMALL! Very, very light pressure is all you will need. Never press hard on an acupressure point, it is counter to what you are trying to accomplish.