FAQ’s these are just a few basic possible questions and answers. Please call or e-mail me if you would like more specific information.
Where is the massage performed?
I will come to where your horse is stabled. It is not necessary for you to be present at the time of the massage however there is initial paperwork and information gathering that will be best completed with you. Travel fee is ½ the hourly rate.
What can I expect to happen when you come to massage my horse?
You and I will first complete a thorough health history. This initial gathering of information is extremely important and gives me the information I need to safely and ethically work with your horse. If I determine that what your horse needs is out of my Scope of Practice, I will suggest a referral. Depending upon the expectation and goal of the massage a Plan of Care is developed.
Is massage painful for my horse?
I use a very gentle approach and technique with any horse I work with. It is my intention to stay under their flight/fight response. Creating pain for the horse is counterproductive to having them trust me enough to relax their muscles.
My horse can be very aggressive and difficult to work with; will he/she settle down enough to benefit from massage?
I view all behavior as indications of possible tension or pain in a horse’s muscles or soft tissue that they cannot express in any other way. Because I work slowly and gently, the aggressive behavior often diminish as the muscle tension releases.
Do you address the entire body or just the top line?
In order for your horse to perform at his/her highest potential the entire body must be functioning in a balanced, harmonious nature. It is best for the horse to address the entire body rather than just the front or back end.
How often should a horse receive a massage?
It depends on the workload of the horse, conformation, health history, etc. For a specific issue with some history behind it, several sequential sessions may be appropriate. For the “average” horse with maintenance and well-being the goal, one massage a month is typically sufficient.
Will I notice an improvement in my horse?
Sometimes there is an immediate improvement after one session or it may take a few sessions depending upon the degree of muscle memory, current muscle condition and other factors.
How long does a session last?
Typically the first assessment and treatment can last 60 to 90 minutes. The service rate is $60.00 an hour and $15.00 for 15 minutes. Some horses do better with short, frequent sessions. This is determined between the owner and massage therapist.
After a session, how long do I have to wait to ride my horse?
You can plan a gentle ride with your horse right a way but a hard ride or show is discouraged for the first 24 hours. This time frame allows for the neurological reorganization that often follows a release and lengthening of muscle tissue.
Is massage safe for my pregnant mare?
Yes when administered under the care of a veterinarian.
