Author Introduction

                                Introduction Excerpt

The similarities between human and canine muscle tissues that validate the importance of integrating stretching into a canine health model range from anatomical similarities – where the muscles are and what they do, to muscle cell physiology – how and why a muscle cell works. Although canines are quadrupeds and some of the attachments of the muscles to the bones are different, in general, the gross anatomical arrangement is very similar to humans. Of greater significance in confirming the importance of stretching dogs is muscle physiology. Interestingly, the inner workings of muscle cells are very similar in most mammals. When a muscle receives a nerve message, if the appropriate amount of energy is available, it will contract the muscle. As long as the muscle is receiving the message from the nerves it will continue to contract until it runs out of energy. When the energy is gone, the fibers can remain in a contracted, or shortened, position. Muscle tissue that remains in a shortened position over time is prone to injury. This predisposition for injury in fatigued muscle is the reason why all muscle tissue needs to be stretched, human or canine. Stretching returns the muscle tissue to its natural elongated state which improves muscle health and joint integrity.

Chapter One: Canine Anatomy

Beautifully illustrated, simplifies and clarifies canine anatomy

Chapter Two: Why Stretch?

The research behind the Foster Stretching Technique is simplified into easy-to-understand descriptions and illustrations. Very accurately describes how and why dogs benefit from stretching using this innovative technique.