What to Expect
The first time I work with your horse, I will spend some time discussing your horse. I will ask about your horses age, what riding discipline, if you have noticed any physical changes, and/or any changes in your horse's attitude. It is particularly important for me to have this information the first time I work with your horse, but please make sure you update me with any changes prior to subsequent appointments.
I will perform an evaluation on your horse looking for asymmetries. I will thoroughly palpate your horse – head to toe examination- looking for pain, spasms or restrictions. This will let me determine which areas of your horse's body will need more focus and attention.
Once the session starts, I will be focusing on your horse. I will be listening and watching your horse for what they are telling me. I ask that you hold all comments and questions until the session is over. I will discuss with you then what I was able to discover from listening and massaging your horse.
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If you are riding prior to your appointment, please allow at least 1 hour between the end of your ride and the horse’s bodywork session.
Most bodywork sessions will require additional treatments for lasting results. I can work with you and your horse towards creating gradual and lasting results.
Owner/Care-giver Responsiblites Before Session
Equine bodywork is not a replacement for veterinarian care, if your horse is ill or injured, he/she should be seen by a veterinarian. If your horse is recovering from an injury or illness, please clear any bodywork with your veterinarian first.
Please have your horse groomed and ready for when I arrive for the session. I prefer to massage your horse in an area that they are comfortable in: stall, arena, round pen, barn, etc.
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After a bodywork session, it's important to help your horse remove the accumulation of lactic acid caused by the treatment. If your horse cannot be turned out, make sure to hand walk him for 5-10 minutes. Light riding or lunging is also fine. This will help your horse recover and feel better after the session.
If you are not able to attend the session, please make arrangements to have someone get your horse ready for the session. I can prepare your horse, but additional charges will be applied.
Please remove any hay or food from where I will be preforming the massage. Eating can distract the horse from getting the full benefits of the massage.
I also ask that there are no distractions for your horse during the session. This can include talking, treats, petting, etc. I need to be able to have your horse focus on what I am doing. I need to read his/her body language to know if they are in pain, feeling relaxed, relief and releasing tension; this is how your horse will communicate with me.