Q and A

Initial assessment

This can take up to two hours and includes

assessment of horse standing

Full body massage, head and neck, forelimb and hind limb stretches

Follow up advice and written information on any findings

Where possible it may also include

Assessment of horse at walk, trot and canter in hand

Assessment of horse at walk, trot and canter with rider up

Not all horses enjoy being touched and in the event of this happening continuing the session will be discussed with the owner.

Does my vet need to be involved?

Yes, under the requirements of the Vet Act 1966, any Equine Therapist must have permission from the client’s vet prior to a session. You will be asked to sign the assessment form stating that you have agreement from your vet.

Follow up sessions

Not always as long as an initial assessment, include full massage and range of stretches. Discussion around any findings both from body worker and owner.

How long does a session last?

Anywhere between 1 to 2 hours. I charge by the session not the minutes due to this difference.

Will I notice an improvement?

Sometimes there is an immediate notable difference; sometimes it takes a few sessions.

My horse is lame can I have you look at him?

Only if cleared by your vet.

How often should a horse be massaged?

Depends on level of work or if part of a rehabilitation programme. Once a month to once every 6 weeks for a normal working horse.

Does my horse have to be clean before you can work on him?

Make sure he’s dry and brush off any dry mud – he doesn’t have to be show presentable

How long do I have to wait after a session to ride him?

Follow up exercise is a component of sports massage and a healthy horse can be ridden after a session.

Are you insured?

Yes, all members of IEBWA have to be insured.

What training have you had?

I’ve trained with Equinology Inc a US based training company who also run courses in the UK – to maintain my qualification I have to complete 16 hours study a year.