How to Get Certified in Equine Massage

Equine massage is becoming increasingly popular as a way to help horses reach and maintain peak performance. Race horses, show horses and work horses all benefit from the healing touch of massage. Getting certified in equine massage therapy can be as simple as completing a program lasting one week or one requiring intensive case studies and internships. You must find the program which best suits your needs.

Things You'll Need

  • Access to horses
  • Knowledge of equine anatomy
  • Human massage experience (recommended)
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Instructions

  1. Select and Attend A Program

    • 1

      Determine your needs for equine massage. Will you be working on racing horses, show horses, work horses, recreational riding horses or your own horse? The animals you will be working on may dictate which certification program you decide to attend. Some programs may gear more towards jumping horses, while others may focus on racing or riding horses. You will need to select a school which most closely meets your needs.

    • 2

      Talk to stable owners and horse owners. Ask them which programs their therapists attended, and how well the therapists have performed. They might have recommendations, or be able to specify techniques they seek out in a therapist. These conversations may even lead to employment after you complete your training.

    • 3

      Talk to equine therapists in your area. Ask them where they went to school and how they rate their educational experience. Ask for specifics on their schooling, such as number of hours, hands-on training, home study, or preparation work before attending classes. Also ask about advanced training opportunities at each school.

    • 4

      Visit the school you are considering and talk to the faculty. Tour the facilities and talk to the instructors about the program. Ask about the stables and horses used for training. Also ask about lodging if you do not live in the area where the school is located. Many programs have arrangements worked out with area hotels to help save on the cost of attending the school.