IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT EQUINE SPORTS MASSAGE THERAPY IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR VETERINARY MEDICINE. MASSAGE IS NEVER USED TO DIAGNOSE ANY INJURY OR PRESCRIBE ANY TREATMENT.

Q. Is Hands on Horses fully insured?

A. Yes. We would be happy to supply you with documentation of this.

Q. How are you continuing your education?

A. We have completed hundreds of hours of training and study including a practicum of applied use. Our upcoming education course includes an additional 50 hours of Deep Tissue Advanced Massage and Joint Mobilization.

Q. Are you able to diagnose a horse's lameness or illness?

A. No. Massage is never used to diagnose or prescribe treatment.

Q. Is there ever a time my horse should NOT be massaged?

A. Yes. This is up to the owner only. Pregnancy - You do not want to massage during the first trimester. This is when they are most likely to miscarry. After this time it is up to the owner/horse. Some mares love it, others prefer not to be touched.
 

Q. How long is a normal session?

A. A full-body massage lasts between 1 - 1 1/2 hours. This is also dependant on the reaction of your horse's muscles.

Q. How often should a horse receive a massage session?

A. This question depends on many factors. This includes your riding discipline, the horses’ workload, their age and state of health. We will work very closely with you and by request, your vet, to develop an individual program
to best suit your horse.

Q. Do I need to be present at the time of the session?

A. We highly recommend your presence during the first massage. For every session thereafter, it is not required.

Q. How should I prepare my horse?

A. Please have your horse dry and brushed off. Unless your horse needs to be in cross ties, we prefer to work in the stall with a halter and lead rope on your horse. This insures as few distractions as possible, and allows us to work deeper if we can manipulate how the horse in standing. A clean bucket of water is also handy to have nearby. (It tends to make them thirsty).

Q.Will a massage affect a horse's training or show schedule?

A.If your horse is not used to massage, they may be a bit sore the day after, but will not severely affect them. It is perfectly fine to continue routine after a session. Although we will massage before a workout or show,
there is a 1 - 2 hour waiting period after your horse has done their exercise or work for the day. If the massage is done after this time period, again, please have your horse cooled-off and dry.

Q. Should you incorporate stretching into your horses’ daily routine?

A. Definitely. Stretching increases the range of motion and is essential in preventing injuries. We will be happy to show you a few great stretches, but remember NEVER stretch a cold muscle!
 

 Q. Why must you massage the whole horse, not just the muscle that hurts?

A. It is crucial to treat the muscle problem, not only treat the symptom. Muscles work in pairs and have many layers. When you work one set of muscles on one side, there is a 30 percent carry over to the muscle on the other side. This is a wonderful technique especially if the horse is too sore to touch on their "hurt" side.
 

 Q. My horse has arthritis, is that O.K?

A. Yes! Massage increases the production of synovial fluids. This fluid is the body's way of cushioning the joint!
 

Q. What if my horse is on stall rest?

A. Getting your horse a massage will again improve circulation and aid in keeping the muscles toned.