1) Download and fill out the Equine or Canine Client Intake Form from my website. The third page of the downloadable form is for you to keep, and has information regarding preparation for your dog or horse!
2) When your therapist arrives, be prepared to answer questions regarding every aspect of your horses or dogs past and present health and wellness, including details of turnout, workout regimen, feed schedule, recent medical concerns, and supplementation. Every little detail matters!
3) Once a full case history is reviewed, the therapist will then perform a dynamic gait analysis, requesting to see different movements based on your case history. This will allow them to identify areas of weakness, imbalance or pain. Horses: this may include seeing your horse move under saddle, so be prepared to tack up if asked.
4) This is followed by a muscular health assessment. This includes a range of motion and palpation assessment to isolate and identify the cause of your animals restriction or pain.
5) The massage treatment itself will involve employing many types of techniques such as trigger point therapy, friction therapy, fascial release, manual lymphatic drainage, joint and spinal mobilizations, stretching, passive range of motion, kinesiotape applications, hydrotherapy, cryotherapy and nerve manipulations etc, specifically tailored to your horse’s individual needs
6) You will then be provided with a series of home care suggestions to further assist you and your horse. These could include stretches, remedial exercises, hydrotherapy, grooming, tack changes, feed and supplement recommendations, or even referral to a chiropractor, farrier, or veterinarian.
