Pup Pressure
Ways to help Fido relax

A dog’s life may seem simple-sleep, eat, lick stuff-but chasing squirrels and digging holes can be a grind. Some stress-relief options:

Aromatherapy
Botanical oils not only soothe nerves, they cure everything from itchy skin to bad breath. Aroma Leigh (www.aromaleigh.com) offers such holistic treats as Clean Ears Essential Oil Blend and Canine Calm Down ($12 each). For other products try Healthypooch.com and Cybercanine.com

Rover Rubdowns
Massage eases sore muscles and helps you bond with your dog. Rub a dab of oil on your hands, and slowly stroke him for five minutes from his head to the base of his tail. For advanced techniques, ask your vet about courses in canine massage. Feeling lazy? PETCO (www. Petco.com) offers dog massages in select stores ($5 for five minutes).

Rrrrresorts
If Fido is super stressed, San Diego’s Golden Paw spa (619-299-2730) offers play programs and physical therapy. Dogs hear recorded greetings from their owners three times a day. Hollywood Hounds (323-650-5551) on Sunset Boulevard hosts parties and weddings with-what else-“valet barking.”