Welcome to this web site!

This is a rather large site with lots of information in various areas. If you are new to the site, I would recommend that you read this page first, then move onto the FAQ's section of the site.(located at the top left side of the page). There you will find many answers to questions others have asked about the course.

From there, please visit the 'course dates' section. Please note that this area is divided into massage and chiropractic. There you will find all the dates of the classes that are to be taught across Canada. From here, the 'course locations' section will give you all the information regarding the facility that is hosting the course, along with directions and hotel/motel information.

Please explore and enjoy this site. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to e-mail through the contact section or call to speak to me directly.

Sidonia

Click here to visit our listing of Certified Equine Massage Therapists

Why Massage?

Approximately 60% of a horse’s total body weight is comprised of muscle and tendons. This musculature system is directly involved in locomotion and movement. Tension and spasms obstruct or prevent optimal movement and will cause problems in the horse’s performance. Healthy, spasm free, fully extensible muscle tissue is less prone to injury. As homeopathic and natural remedies are quickly becoming the choice for injuries, massage has emerged in the forefront of modalities used, as its benefits are profound, and almost instantly a difference can be observed as the horse will begin to move more easily.

How Are Muscles Injured? A blow to the muscle Ill fitting tack Overuse Over stretching Lack of stretching prior to an event overtraining Cooling down or warming up too quickly Result of poor or stressful conformation Forging, while trying to save itself from a fall Collisions with other horses Imbalanced rider Playing in the paddock

What Does Massage Do?

• Relaxation and relief of spasm
• Increases drainage of lymph
• Increases drainage of lactic acid, the prominent cause of fatigue
• Improve joint mobility
• Increases circulation in all systems
• Improves flexibility and suppleness
• Decreases recovery time in injuries
• Reduction of toxic build up
• Increased tissue elasticity which allows for greater extention
• Increases or relaxes muscle tone
• Increases range of motion
• Reduces adhesions/scar tissue and restores extensibility of muscle fibres
• Assists in respiration, digestion and elimination
• Can improve mental attitude, as pain is dramatically reduced

Goals of Massage Therapy:

• To increase blood and lymphatic circulation
• To allow for full painless contaction of muscles
• To allow for full muscles and joint extensibility
• To improve the quality of life by decreasing pain and inflammation caused by injury and arthritis
• To enhance athletic performance
• To build stronger, suppler muscles that will be less prone to injury from strain
• To decrease recovery time between events
• To deepen the bond between horse and rider

What is Taught:

Safety protocol. How do we approach a horse, and how do we stay safe while working on a horse that is a stranger to us.

We all get far too comfortable working around our own horses (me too!), but when working with a new client, we need to

exercise more caution, and adhere to safety principles in order to avoid injury to ourselves, or our horses.

Massage theory, principles of massage, massage manipulations, and their applications and effects on various systems.

The manipulations of massage, their proper names, and how each movement is unique.

The phases of injury, how to spot them and how massage is administered based on the phase of injury.

Hydrotherapy uses and applications. When to use heat or cold, and various ways that we can administer heat or cold.

Equine anatomy: skeletal system and 30 major muscles, common landmarks

Contraindications or when we should exercise caution during a massage. This is a very important segment of this course as

we need to learn when it may not be safe to work with a horse-either their safety or ours!

Palpation procedures: how to correctly approach a horse, and how to gain greater muscle relaxation during a treatment,

various common injuries and how to spot them quickly. How to assess muscle tissue and determine if it is the causation of

the issue at hand.

Lower limb swelling reduction: a huge asset to learn to help your horse whether they have sustained an injury to the lower limb or

have an issue with stocking up.

Conformation assessment-how each conformation affects the gait and the strain each one affects on the ligaments and

muscular system.

Assessment, or how we find out where we need to focus our attention to have the horse gain the most benefit from

the massage. This is an integral part of this course as it is important to learn and understand which areas to focus

our massage time!

Stretches, stretches and more stretches. This is the cornerstone of muscle extensibility, without which the horse

cannot reach its full potential.

An exclusive aspect of equine massage is included in this course!!

Advanced massage techniques. This area of the course addresses behaviour issues as a direct correlation to

physical pain. This area is a compilation of different human massage courses that I have taken, along with

my many years of experience as a human RMT . I experimented with various techniques, found a safe way to carry out

the work and and the horse's responses were amazing! As many of the treatments are designed by me specifically

tailored to work with horses, it gives this area of the course an exclusive area of information that is not taught in any

other course.

In this area of study we will be looking at specific problems that horses can have, and how we can help them by

listening to them and allowing the horses to show us where they are having problems. By looking at their conformation,

behavior, resistance issues, refusals both under saddle and ground work we can formulate a plan, allowing the horse's

input and give them relief through massage.

This area of study has yielded the highest pain relief results that I have ever used, and I am so very pleased to bring

this aspect of care to this course.

How long is the course?

The massage therapy course is 6 days

Please visit the FAQ section for the course schedule.

Do I have to bring my own horse? or May I bring my own horse?

The facilities I book already have the required number of horses, so you do not need to bring your horse. If you choose to bring your horse, you must contact the facility owner directly and make arrangements. Some facilities do not allow other horses onto the property as they have a closed herd, while others may require vaccination paperwork and a Coggin's Test. If you do bring your horse, you must bring sufficient hay either for the entire course (6 days), or enough to mix with the facility's supply as we do not wish for any horses to develop colic from a change in feed.

Is there homework for this course?

Yes, there is homework!

Once a person has registered for a course, then the pass codes are given to the person for the 'homework log in'. This is an opportunity to prepare for the course, so the sooner a person registers for a course, the more time to study!!

Should I buy an equine massage book?

No, please do not purchase an equine massage book for this class. I equate learning how to massage from a book to learning the Irish Jig from reading a dance manual. It may be done, but it won't be done correctly, and the result won't be pretty!

Massage is more than just rubbing a muscle. It requires technique, regulated pressure, rate, learning cues from the horses as they respond to the work, and of course, our own posture! All of these nuances cannot be learned from a book.

If people wish to purchase massage books after this course, I do support it-the more knowledge the better!

Do you recommend any books on anatomy?

Yes, I highly recommend a couple of books:

Illustrated Atlas of Clinical Equine Anatomy an comon disorders of Horse Volume One, Riegel, Hakola. This is an excellent book that has won awards for illustration, reference text and education.

Horse Anatomy A coloring Atlas, Kainer, McCracken A really nicely illustrated book with lots of facts.

Clinical Anatomhy of the Horse, Clayton, Flood, Rosenstein. This book is a dissection of the horse and lists the anatomy of the horse. As this is a dissection volume, please be aware that it is graphic.

I am a big fan of Hilary M. Clayton. she has written many books and I have been impressed with her ability to convey an idea clearly, no matter the subject matter.

There is a web site: http://www.horsebooksetc.com that has a great selection at excellent prices.

Do you offer on-line instruction?

As I stated above, that I do not believe that massage can be learned from a book, neither do I belive that massage can be learned on-line. We can learn facts, anatomical landmarks, muscles, anatomy and physiology, but we cannot learn the art of massage without an instructor's help. Equine anatomy can be learned from books and does not require on line instruction.

I have been asked this question a lot in the last couple of years, and as I business person, I could have created a program for people to do this course on line, but, my primary goal is to help the horses. I made the decision to keep working with people face to face, to have the ability to let people test their pressure on me in order to get feedback, to watch them as they work so that I can help them with catching cues that the horse is clearly giving as they work, to help the students in maintaining correct posture so they do not sustain injuries. None of these things can be accomplished with an on line course, then getting together every now and again to moniter the student's progress Catching a problem at the onset of learning also aids people so that they do not learn bad habits. I have made this statement in most of my classes: "Massage is not rocket science, but, the art of massage is rocket science". Because I respect the power of massage, I have made the decision to only teach this course as it stands- person to person.

Do you have a contact list for upcoming courses for the following year?

No, I do not have contact lists. Computers crash, viruses strike and lists can be lost. The best thing to do is to check with the site in November for the following year's course locations under the 'course locations' button.

Testing:

There are 3 written tests, along with oral testing in the barn for landmarks, bones, muscles, technique and posture.

Not to panic!! I am extremely fair when it comes to testing. Whether you are taking this course as a career, or if you want to learn how to help your own horses, testing in this course is all about what you have learned, what you may need to work on a bit, or have I done my job by explaining and demonstrating a particular part of the course in a way that every student is able to understand.

Why are there course location pages with no current dates?

Each year locations vary, so indeed, there may be a location page with no current class. I may be working on locating a facility, or there is a location that is only booked every other year. The 'course dates' page is the most accurate page that has all current dates listed.

Who takes this course?

This course is not just for people wanting to start a new career!

Owners who wish to learn more about how they can help their horses be more comfortable, perform better, or help an older horse with their aches and creaks. All our working horses are athletes, whether they are in competition, trail riding, or just the occasional pleasure hack, and as such, they can sustain injuries.

We have seen some truly amazing results in the racing industry with horses that have regular massage based on a program which is taught in this class.

This course can teach you how to work with your horse to increase performance, smooth out that bumpy gait (due to injury and muscle tension), deal with injuries by opening circulation and allowing swelling an exit route and also bringing nutrient rich blood to the area to promote healing, learn how 'behavioral issues' may indeed be a horse telling you clearly that they are in pain and the most beneficial result of all-a deeper bond with your horse!

Is there an age requirement?

Yes, the minimum age for this course is 16 or turning 16 in the calendar year. At times I have allowed 15 year olds to take the course, but they must have been involved in Pony Club, 4-H, Rodeo or Jumping Circuit etc., and must have a full recommendation from a parent/guardian. Good grades in school are also an asset, but the horse experience is what truly counts, along with the parent/guardian's assent.

Are there any prerequisites?

No, there are no prerequisites for this course. As each person will have a different level of horse experience and education, there is no minimum for this course. There is however, homework. The homework is the prerequisite for this course. Please do sign up early if you have decided to take this course so you can have lots of time to study!

How much hands-on time is there in this course?

We do hands-on work with the horses for approximately 70% of the of the course or about 30 hours.

Both the theory and the hands-on work are equally important, as we need to understand why we massage in a particular way, and how we would approach a horse with a treatment plan based on the condition of the soft tissues. Students need to learn how to physically massage a horse, and this can only be accomplished in the barn! For this reason, we are massaging horses on the first day of class!

What are the class times?

Each class is from 8am-5pm each day. On our first day, please be at the facility no later than 7:50am.

The last day will be shorter and will be concluded by noon.

What is your class size?

This is dependant on the number of horses a facility has to provide. I try to limit the number of students to 20; however, from time to time this number may be slightly more if the facility has a larger number of horses and has the proper set up for a larger class. The minimum (not maximum) number of students is 6.

What is the cost of the course?

Please see the section at the top of the page under 'course costs'.

Are lunches provided?

Lunches are not provided. A refrigerator will be made available for storage, so please do bring a lunch as some of the facilities are quite remote and there are no restaurants nearby.

Coffee, tea, water and snacks (the infamous 'junk food bin') will be provided for all students.

When should I register for a course?

You may register for a course at any time either on line or via mail. The sooner you register for a class, the more time you will have to study the homework.

Although I would prefer to teach a small class to not at all, there must be a minimum number of 6 students registered for the course 2 weeks prior to the start date.

You may register for a course that is moving forward within the two week period.

How do I register for a course? Can I make an on line payment with Visa/MC

You may either:

A) Go to the top of this page, and click on the 'application forms' tab. A page will open directing you to the application form along with a waiver/release form. Fill out these forms fully, and send them, along with a post-dated deposit cheque or money order for $135 dated 2 weeks prior to the start of the course, and mail it to the address listed on on the application form.

B) Make an on line payment using the PayPal service by going to the 'application forms' section of the site and clicking on the PayPal service. Please be sure to read the refunds policy. Please print a copy of the waiver form and bring it with you to class.

If you have mailed your application form, you will receive confirmation by phone or e-mail that your application has been received, and you will also be given the pass codes for the 'homework log in' tab on this web site.

If you have not received confirmation, please contact me!!

The balance of the course is due on the first day of class and may be paid using either a personal cheque, money order or cash. If you have made a payment on line for the balance of the course just prior to the course, please print a copy of the paid invoice page as proof of payment and bring it with you to class along with the waiver/release form found under the 'application forms'

You will receive a receipt, along with my GST # at the conclusion of the course.

Please note that I do not accept Visa/Mastercard at the course.

If I have made a payment on line, do I have to fill out an application form?

Yes, if you have made an on line payment, please fill out the application form. Please also print a copy of the waiver/release form located under the 'application forms' section, fill it out and mail it to the address on the application form.

How do I know where a class is to be held?

Go to the top of the page and click on 'course locations'. A scroll down bar will appear. Scroll to the course location you are interested in attending, then click on the location. Another page will appear with directions to the facility and on most pages suggested accommodations. Please be sure to print this page for your directions.

Can I reserve a spot in the course on line or with a phone call?

If you wish to call me and reserve a spot in a course, you may do so while your application is en route.

If you have chosen to reserve your spot, please submit your application immediately. This is a courtesy for people committed to taking the course. In the case of a class which is filling, you may lose your place if your application has not been received within 7 business days, (we feel this is a fair and equitable amount of time for applications to make it across the country) and there is no answer to my messages via either e-mail or telelphone, so please submit your application if you have asked me to hold your spot. If you have mailed your application, and you have not recieved your confirmation call, please contact me immediately!

How do I know a class is confirmed?

It should be presumed that all classes are moving forward.

If a class is to be cancelled, I will call 2 weeks prior to the course start date to cancel if there are less than the required 6 registrants. (Please read the 'cancellation policy' located at the very bottom of this page.) The only phone call (or e-mail, if you do not have an answering machine) you will receive is when we receive your application form. You may always either call or e-mail me to confirm a course, but with my travel schedule it is not possible to call each person to confirm courses.

Please be sure to check your e-mails prior to the course! If I know of a problem (outbreak) on a facility, any construction issues or any new information becomes available I will e-mail everyone to inform them of an issue.

What do I need to bring with me to the course?

All you will need to bring with you is:

A lunch,

A hat and sunscreen (for working outside - weather permitting),

Although not mandatory, steel toed boots are highly recommended.

Fly spray in the summer is a good idea for yourself

A cushion to sit on as I provide stools and they can get quite uncomfortable

Everything you need is provided: pens, pencils, highlighter, paper and the course manual.

The only thing that you need to bring with you is an open mind that is ready to learn!!

Do I receive a Certificate?

At the conclusion of the course graduates receive their certificate and take home their copy of the equine massage manual for future reference! At the conclusion of the course, the graduate may then call themself a Certified Equine Massage Therapist.

Legals:

Each province in Canada has a Veterinary Act which outlines the practice of veterinary medicine. Currently, in Manitoba, the act reads as:

2(1)  The practice of veterinary medicine means the branch of knowledge that relates to maintaining the health of animals and to preventing, diagnosing and treating diseases of and injuries to animals.

The act further outlines included practices as:

(b) administers a drug, veterinary biologic, medicine, appliance or treatment of whatever nature to an animal;

The wording in the act encompasses the practice of: massage therapy, chiropractic, homeopathy, reiki, healing touch, health touch, laser therapy, T-touch, magnetic therapy, ultrasound, aromatherapy, physiotherapy, the administering of poultices, sheath cleaning and any other treatment.

The act does not prohibit owners from learning or carrying out any of these modalities for use on animals which are owned by them.

Each province has their own definition of the practice of veterinary medicine, and the college of veterinarians of each province may or may not view the practice of individuals as contravention of the act - or may allow the practice under the supervision of a veterinarian.

Please be aware of this, and feel free to:

Google the provincial veterinarian act (eg: manitoba veterinarian act) and look under the Practice of Veterinarian Medicine for the complete definition;

Contact your local veterinarian and inquire as to whether they offer massage and where they received their training;

Contact your Provincial Member of the Legislative Assembly if your local veterinarian does not offer this service as the act (that can be changed by the introduction of an amendment to the governing statute) provides veterinarians only to practice in fields of study that may or may not have been included in their training.

Persons enrolled in the Manitba classes must be owners of the horses in order to participate in the hands on segment of the classes. Graduates will still receive a certificate.

What clothing should I wear?

Wear weather appropriate clothing, bring a hat and sunscreen, and if you have them, steel toed shoes.

We should never handle our own horses after the class prior to changing our clothing, disinfecting our boots and washing ourselves thoroughly as well.

2008 was a big year for strangles, influenza and rhinovirus. Extra precautions should be taken: wear coveralls if you have them, then remove them at the facility and place them in a large garbage bag along with footware before entering your vehicle. Shower (including hair) prior to handling your own horses, or touching your dogs or cats either (as they can literally carry the virus into the barn). Irregardless of an outbreak in a barn, we should always use extra caution!

CEU's

For those people that belong to associations that require continuing education, I am in the process of having this course assessed for CEU's. Below is a list of organizations that have accepted this program, along with the CEU rating.

If you belong to an association not listed, please feel free to contact me and I will contact the association and request a review.

 
Natural Health Practitioners of Canada .................................. 5 CEU's

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Please click on the "FAQ's" button next. You will find answers to many questions that people have asked me about the course, regulations in Canada regarding the term 'certified equine massage therapist' etc.!

If you have any questions, or would just like to chat, please feel free to either e-mail me (using the "Contact" button at the top- this is the best way to reach me while I am on the raod from March-October as the internet never sleeps!) or call me toll free (in Canada) and leave a message on my answering service at:

1-888-EQUINE2 (378-4632)

Under the "Contact' section, my alternate number with the area code is listed for all non Canadians that would like to leave a message - it is the same answering service as the toll free number.

At the bottom of the page, there is a section called 'travels'. This page has pictures of the different barns, pictures of students massaging etc. It is a very large page, and takes time to download (apologies for the those people on dial-up, I'm working to minimize the bytes!)

Please be advised that the "Grad Login" is for gradutes of the program only. Once the equine massage program is completed by the student, then they will be given the login information. Thank you!

The "Homework log in " section also requires pass codes. Once a person has registered for a course with an application form and deposit, they will then be given the information to access this area.