Massage has a fascinating history dating back 4,000 years, and evidence of the beneficial effects of massage on animals is not difficult to find. We need only look at animals to understand the importance they place on the use of massage through mutual (allogrooming), or self-grooming. Among dogs, an individual suffering from a sore, or some other form of injury, will often have the affected area roughly licked by another pack member. This action, which resembles rubbing, is, in effect, a form of muscle massage. The techniques explained and demonstrated in The Complete Dog Manual – which incorporate a "trouble shooting" guide for problems when working on your dog – should assist you in improving your dog's health, and help you gain a greater awareness of his or her overall condition. Other techniques are also used by fully trained and qualified canine myotherapists or massage therapist practitioners, but the techniques included here are safe to use without such specialist knowledge. How the dog works Using your vet How massage works How to massage your dog Massage techniques Massage exercise and muscular health Managing muscle repair, incorporating massage Other techniques