FAQ

I tailer my services to the specific needs of each horse and client, however there are some questions that often come up frequently. Every question and comment is important, so don’t hesitate to contact me.

DOES MY HORSE NEED BODYWORK?

Horses who are asked to do a job (competing, riding, driving, breeding, etc) should have bodywork done at least once every three months. Competitive horses benefit from sessions 1-4 times per month depending on the amount of stress put on them.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT?

Before the session...

I reccomend owners turn out or hand walk their horse for 10-20 minutes before their appointment. Ensure your horse is clean and dry. It is best when the coat is free from grooming products and fly spray. If they must be fly sprayed, the lower legs, mane and tail, belly, and face are okay areas.

During the session...

Your horse will reap the most benefit if we do bodywork in a calm, quiet environment that they are familiar with and comfortable in. Busy barn aisle crossties in a crowded barn are not ideal due to the number of distractions and interruptions. A quiet paddock, arena, or stall is preferable.

I will often incorporate some movement into my sessions especially for horses that have a hard time standing still. Each horse is unique in their attention span and need to express themselves or stretch out. At one point or another most will fidget by nibbling the lead rope, pawing, etc. This is part of the processing that often happens before a release. As long as the behavior is safe and appropriate, I encourage owners to allow it and not reprimand the horse.

After the session...

Most horses will be relaxed and sleepy immediately following bodywork. However, some horses may be a little annoyed or agitated especially if they have been dealing with pain. Those who are wary of bodywork at first, will usually catch on to the process and enjoy their subsequent sessions more and more.

It's preferable to let your horse explore their movement on their own before being put back into their stall--whether that be from turnout or hand walking. If it is the first time your horse has had bodywork, they should be given 1-2 full days of rest (no riding or lunging) and then easing them back into their regular work schedule. Do not worry if your horse acts sore the following day (similar to a human who has had a deep tissue work). Ensure they have access to salt/electrolytes and plenty of water, as many will experience an increase in thirst the next few days.