Touching Supports Your Dog's Health: Lower Limb Massage Seminar Held for Pre-Senior Dogs [Event Report]

Pet CBD care brand "M&N's CBD", operated by Wellpharma Co., Ltd., held a lower limb massage experience seminar for pre-senior (6-7 years and older) small dogs and their owners on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Ota-ku, Tokyo, titled "Supporting Your Dog's 'Walking for Life' - Lower Limb Massage Experience Starting from Pre-Senior Stage".

This seminar was held with the theme of "preventive care starting now," rather than "after they become seniors." Aiming to extend the healthy life expectancy of dogs, the event was designed for owners to learn about the structure of canine bones and muscles, while gaining hands-on experience with lower limb massages and self-check techniques they can practice at home.

About This Seminar The seminar consisted of three parts: a lecture session to learn about the mechanism of a dog's bones and muscles, a practical session to practice lower limb massage focusing on the hip joints and lower back, and a Q&A session where participants could consult about daily care and health maintenance.

The seminar highlighted not only massage techniques but also emphasized the perspective of "preventive care," introducing topics such as: - How to touch dogs in a way that helps them relax - Short daily care routines that can be easily continued - How to notice small changes - The "habit of touching" as a health check

At the venue, dogs were seen sleeping comfortably during the massage, creating a relaxed and peaceful time for both the dogs and their owners.

Participants shared comments such as: "This is the first time I've seen such a comfortable look on my dog's face." "I want to continue doing this at home." "I learned that touching my dog helps me notice small changes." The event provided an opportunity to learn a new form of communication with their dogs.

Lecture: Learning How to Build a Body to "Walk Together Forever" In the lecture session, under the theme "Both dogs and humans weaken from their legs and lower back," explanations were given regarding the decline in muscle strength and physical changes that easily occur in senior dogs.

Because dogs walk on four legs, they support about 60-70% of their body weight with their front legs. Consequently, the muscles in their hind legs tend to weaken easily, and as they age, problems with walking and excretion become more common.

The lecture introduced an approach to the skeleton and muscles "to keep using the hind legs" from the perspective of a judo therapist, acupuncturist, and massage therapist. The importance of owners understanding the mechanism of their dog's body and knowing "where and why to touch" to gain confidence in daily care was discussed.

Additionally, the lecture introduced "small signs" commonly seen from the pre-senior stage, such as: - Walking speed becoming slower during walks - Sighing heavily or hesitating more when getting up - Hesitating to jump - Changes appearing in coat gloss and sleep duration

It was explained that "by touching them every day, you will be able to notice when something is 'different than usual,'" highlighting the importance of making interaction a habit starting from the pre-senior stage.

The instructor also noted that "massage is a relaxing time not only for the dog but also for the owner," emphasizing that physical contact leads to healing and a sense of security for both dogs and owners.

Practical: Experiencing Paw Pad Massage and Lower Limb Care on Yoga Mats In the practical session, participants practiced gentle lower limb care focusing on the hip joints and lower back, as well as paw pad massage.

The instructor introduced that massage leads not only to physical benefits but also to mental stability, by: - Maintaining the flexibility of muscles and joints - Maintaining the physical sensation to prevent stumbling and unsteadiness - Providing a sense of security through the warmth of the owner's hands

At the venue, dogs were seen sleeping comfortably while receiving massages, enveloping the room in a peaceful atmosphere from start to finish.

The instructor commented, "By incorporating these care routines into your daily life, your bond with your dog will deepen, leading to support for maintaining their health," conveying the importance of communication through "touch."

Gift: Original "Dog Aroma Mist" Participants received an original blended "Dog Aroma Mist" by M&N's CBD as a gift.

Featuring a scent blended with lavender, chamomile, and orange essential oils, it was provided as an item to help spend massage time in a more relaxed manner.

The instructor, Ms. Tachibana, commented: "As dogs become seniors, sensory functions such as their eyes and ears gradually change. Amidst this, familiar scents and physical contact can lead to a 'time of peace of mind.' By making massage and aroma a set habit from now on, I hope you will be able to continue it as a calming time even during their senior years."

Instructor Profile Eriko Tachibana SpaArtist Therapist / Representative Director of Bacchus Japan Co., Ltd. Over 20 years in the beauty and spa industry. Was in charge of VIP treatments at a 5-star hotel and has treated over 10,000 people. Currently guiding over 2,000 people as a consultant. Based on her experience of nursing her own dog until the age of 19 years and 7 months, she focuses on the mutual