1. Begin with three sweeping strokes to calm your pet and assess her condition. Starting at the tip of her nose, apply gentle pressure as your hand makes a long, flowing stroke across her back and off the tip of the tail. Repeat twice more, slightly increasing the pressure each time. Then stroke each side of the face and the sides of the body; for balance, always work both sides evenly. Look for the pet to yawn, which indicates relaxation.

2.

Gathering skin into your palm, apply medium pressure with your thumbs as you knead the back of the neck. Continue down the back, working either side of the vertebrae while avoiding direct pressure on the spine. For small animals, knead with just your fingertips. Next, walk your thumbs down either side of the spine.

3.

Beginning at the belly, apply medium pressure as you sweep your fingers up along the pet’s rib cage. Repeat twice more. This will open the rib cage, improving breathing and digestion. Then go to the hip area and gently hold the leg to allow a stretch. Repeat on the other side.

4.

Close the session with another set of three sweeping strokes, decreasing the pressure each time.

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