SELECTING A THERAPIST
A well-trained therapist can be a critical member of your horse’s health-care team. Selecting a therapist can be challenging, however, as few rules exist to regulate equine massage and bodywork. That means making a good decision requires research on your part.
Here are questions you should ask. 1. What training have you had? Answers to this question are likely to range from “my farrier taught me, and he’s a really good guy,” to “I’m certified by a program that requires courses in anatomy and physiology, has veterinarians on their faculty, and administers testing prior to certification by that school.”
Be aware that even if the therapist attended a “school,” the amount and quality of training ranges from a weekend course to years of study. Take time to check out the training program online, and look for courses in horse handling and anatomy, as well as whether veterinarians are involved with the education. 2. Are there any laws restricting the work you do? Laws related to equine massage therapy and bodywork vary widely from state to state. As examples, in Oregon, practitioners can work only with veterinary referral, and in Colorado and Washington, a written examination is required. Other states require direct or indirect veterinary supervision, and some have no laws at all.
While the legalities might not directly impact the quality of a therapist’s work, there’s an ethical question at hand—that is, if a practitioner is willing to break the law, is that someone you trust to work on your horse? 3. What techniques do you use? Find out what tools your chosen therapist has in her toolbox to make sure she can meet your horse’s needs. For example, if chronic stocking up is a problem you’re trying to address, confirm that the practitioner is has been trained in manual lymphatic drainage (MLD). 4. Do you have a relationship with a veterinarian who can recommend your services? Most well-trained massage therapists have a relationship with a veterinarian, even if veterinary referral isn’t required in their state. Ask your therapist for a recommendation from a veterinarian, then call that veterinarian for input. 5. Do you have insurance? Your massage therapist or bodyworker should have liability insurance.