HAPPY EARS31 in 31 #5 HAPPY EARS

 HAPPY EARS

Most dog owners know that the ears are a “happy place” for their dogs but what they really appreciate are the specific techniques they can use. Although many approaches are viable, I like to start from the part of the ear closest to the body. Using just one hand glide your hand SLOWLY toward the outside of the ear very gently letting go when you reach the end. Depending on the dog, the ear is usually pressed against the body when you use one hand. Repeat this move 3-5 times. The next step is to use two hands. Put the ear between the palms and make an “ear sandwich” slowing moving from the body to the end of the ear, holding a moment at the end before letting go. Repeat this 3-5 times. Then repeat the whole procedure on the other ear. Done slowly enough, this takes about 5 minutes for both ears. Typically the dog’s breathing slows and so does yours. The next area for massage is directly behind the dog’s ears. There you will a deep depression . If you apply direct pressure and hold it for 10-30 seconds, most dogs will deeply relax. To apply direct pressure (think acupressure), use your thumb at a 90 degree angle and put enough pressure so there is just the beginning of resistance. Then back off a little. Do this one ear at a time placing your other hand on the dog’s head for stability. Repeat with both ears. Next, make circles in both directions one ear at a time. Finally, as a closing move, gently glide along both ears at the same time similar to how you began. Check in with the dog to see how they liked it.