Kinesiology Taping for Dogs
Would you like to help your dog move with more confidence, have less pain and inflammation with faster healing? We all would, so here we answer the top 10 questions frequently asked about canine kinesiology taping. Generally referred to as K-tape, that colorful athletic tape that you see on professional athletes, can help your best friend in the same manner that it helps us humans.
1. What is K-tape? K-tape is an amazing noninvasive tool that can help improve your dogs health with regard to injuries, aging, and athleticism. The tape is a stretchable cotton material with a rubbery acrylic adhesive. Unlike other athletic tapes, it’s applied along the length of the muscle—this placement does not restrict range of motion. K-tape gives us a holistic approach to improving energy, health, and endurance without surgery or medication.
2. How can K-tape help my dog? K-tape is used when you wish to decrease pain and inflammation, support muscles and joints and increase energy flow. It can also aide in proprioception, which is the perception of joint position and movement, muscle force, and effort.
3. How does it work? When applied on a human, K-tape decompresses the skin and the underlying tissues. When we apply tape to an animal, the hair lifts up which, in turn, lifts the skin and creates the same decompression that we see in humans. The decompression de - creases inflammation and relieves pressure from nerve endings. It improves blood and lymph fluid flow and acts as a natural pain reliever.
4. Where did it come from? K-tape was developed in the 1970s by Dr. Kenzo Kase, a Japanese chiropractor. He was searching for a tape solution that would not restrict movement and would support fascia tissue as well as muscle. K-tape was first seen worldwide at the 1988 Olympics and was introduced to the U.S. in 1995.
5. Will my dog be uncomfortable? When applied by a certified professional, most dogs are com - fortable wearing the tape.
6. Do I need to shave my dog? No, your dog’s hair will move the skin. The dog’s hair follicles produce the therapeutic effect, so no shaving is required.
7. Can I use K-tape with other modalities of therapy? Yes! K-tape can be used alone but is most frequently used with canine massage therapy and cold laser therapy.
8. Can I apply the tape to my dog myself? Applying kinesiology tape in the wrong pattern, direction, or with the incorrect amount of stretch may result in bruising, increased swelling or additional injuries to soft tissues. For best results, it’s recommended to have a certified K-tape professional treat your dog.
9. When should I NOT use kinesiology tape? K-tape should not be used on malignant cancer, infections, con - gestive heart failure, advanced kidney disease, wounds that are open, or deep vein thrombosis or other blood clots.
10. How can I find a certified practitioner in my area? Reaching out to your local canine massage therapist is the best way to start. Many animal massage therapists offer various modalities, including K-taping. Holistic animal practitioners such as chiropractors and hydrotherapists may also offer this treatment. You can ask your veterinarian if they can refer you to a holistic veterinarian or animal practitioner in your area. Feel free to reach out to me as well to help you find a practitioner in your area.
If you live in the greater Palm Desert/Palm Springs, CA area, I can help. Reach me at (951) 704-3374.
Written by Wendy Rall for Pet Companion Magazine