In this book, Jim Masterson, Equine Massage Therapist for the 2006 and 2008 and 2010 USET Endurance Teams, and for equine clientele competing in FEI World Cup, Pan American and World Games competitions, teaches a unique method of equine bodywork, in which the practitioner recognizes and follows the responses of the horse to touch to release tension in key junctions of the body that most affect performance.This practical book with step-by-step instructions, photographs and illustrations is ideally suited to accompany you to the yard/stables, where you can practice the Masterson Method techniques on horses. Expanded chapters with Tips & Techniques, anatomical explanations and examples from Jim's practice help deepen your understanding. A 'quick reference' section will point you to exercises that are specifically suited to your particular discipline, may it be dressage, endurance, eventing, or others in the vast realm of horse sports.

Use massage to help your dog relax, to condition the canine athlete, to assist in recovery from injuries or to ease chronic pain. Learn the techniques of a recognized expert in the field so that you can bring the well-known benefits of massage to your own dog or become a canine massage specialist. New edition has over 100 illustrations and 100 photos, detailed examinations of muscular stress points, diagnoses and treatments. You will learn the basics of canine anatomy and kinesiology; massage movements, pressures, techniques and systems; routines designed to address specific health problems; stretching and hydrotherapy techniques; tips on how to run a canine massage business, and more. Excellent source of information on dog anatomy as well.

Improve your dog's movement, comfort, and longevity while opening exciting new doors to better communication and a more meaningful relationship. We all want our dogs to live pain-free, and we all want ways to connect with them. The Masterson Method® is an interactive approach to animal bodywork that follows and uses responses of the animal to your touch to find and release tension in areas of his body that affect: His ability to get around. His physical and mental well-being. The quality of and length of his life. His connection with you and other humans and animals. A lifelong horse person, Jim Masterson developed his method for the purpose of releasing tension and improving movement in the performance horse. An interesting benefit was that it led to improved communication and trust, and a better overall relationship with the horse. Since dogs go with horses “like peanut butter and jelly,” Jim says, it was only natural that he began to use his bodywork on canines, too. The techniques used in the Masterson Method rely on reading and following the subtle changes in the dog's body language as you work with him. Once you learn to read his body language, you will be “on the same page” and communication is established. Your dog recognizes that you understand what his body language is saying, that there is no threat to his well-being, and that he feels better when you work with him. In these pages you will learn the steps to incorporating the Masterson Method in your dog's life, bringing happiness to both of you. By using these techniques, and knowing the responses to look for, you will be able to: Achieve a release of accumulated stress in deep-seated key junctions of the dog's body that affects mobility, comfort, attitude, training, and performance. Restore muscular and structural balance, and natural alignment. Discover new levels of communication and trust with your dog that spill over into other areas of interaction. This book includes: Step-by-step instructions, color photographs, and detailed illustrations. Tips and techniques, understandable anatomical explanations, and examples from Jim's personal experiences with hundreds of dogs. A “quick-reference” section that points you toward exercises specifically suited to your dog's breed or activity. 20 bonus QR codes, supplying 38 minutes of instructional video. The Masterson Method is practical, easy to use, and results oriented. You see the results in the dog's responses during the bodywork, and in his behavior, comfort, and movement afterward. Beyond Dog Massage is the ideal instructional guide for all those seeking a better quality of life for and deeper connection with their dogs.

Since we don't speak "Basic Bark," the best way to canine-communicate is through touch. Regular Dog Massage sessions give dogs the attention they crave and the affection they need, and the techniques explained in this book are designed to: - Relax tense, overworked muscles - Help puppies benefit from touch, especially during their prime socialization period - Aid early detection of health problems - Improve sociability and help calm a "Rowdy Rover" - Promote cooperation during grooming and visits to the vet - Enhance that loving bond between you and your dog Recommended by veterinarians and dog experts, massage is an essential part of your pet's health care. Dog Massage gives you all the skills you need, including: - Basic Massage Motions, Hand Positions, Speeds, Pressures and Moods - Over 50 Massage Techniques from Whiskers to Tail - Advanced Techniques and "White Glove Treatments" - How to "Voice Massage"

Fully illustrated with more than 100 photographs, this book provides a strong foundation in canine massage technique. It features an easy-to-understand section on canine anatomy with useful charts and anatomical labels geared toward teaching pet owners about their dog's body and needs.

Evidence supports the positive effect of canine massage and soft-tissue therapy on a range of clinical conditions, including hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, and epilepsy—and clients are increasingly asking for it. Whether you’re a veterinarian, veterinary technician, or a human massage therapist thinking of expanding your practice to animals, Canine Medical Massage: Techniques and Clinical Applications will help you master this growing area of study. The only full-length book on canine medical massage, this resource features: · Massage treatment techniques for canine patients · Sample massage sequences for specific anatomic regions and patient populations, including canine athletes · Conditions that benefit from massage, organized by body system · An overview of nutritional supplements and other services that complement canine medical massage Learn assessment and examination models, reinforce your knowledge of treatment techniques, and discover business self-care tips for canine massage practitioners with this comprehensive text.

Show off your happy dog! Every Friday from September 6 – October 2, 2009 the authors will choose a photograph of a happy dog to post on their website and treat the winner to a fabulous prize package. See www.happydogland.com/contest for details.A well cared-for dog is a happy dog. This book goes beyond grooming to explain how the personal touch can make a big difference in a pet’s physical and emotional health. From basic first aid to understanding the complete needs of a canine companion, Happy Dog shows pet owners step-bystep how to: • Monitor a pet’s health • Set up a stellar home grooming station • Brush, bathe, and dry a panting pal • Dog-proof the home and travel right With his extensive expertise, Billy Rafferty includes invaluable and exclusive features, such as: • A yearly grooming calendar • Appraisals of products and tools on the market • Safety and emergency preparedness tips • Pet nutrition, exercise and play rules • Illustrations and photos throughout—including special appearances by celebrity dogs With the expert knowledge condensed in these pages, reading Happy Dog could be the best thing a dog owner ever does for a furry best friend.