What is Massage Therapy?

Massage is defined as: 

The assessment of the soft tissues and joints of the body and the treatment or prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissues and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function and/or relieve pain. 

General Purposes of Massage are:

  • Relax or stimulate the nervous system and muscles
  • Increase the circulation of blood and/or lymph
  • Increase oxygen and nutrients to the tissues
  • Increase metabolism
  • Increase mobility, flexibility and pliability of the tissues
  • Increase peristalsis and improve digestion
  • Decrease the blood pressure
  • Decrease swelling or edema
  • Decrease congestion
  • Decrease adhesions or scar tissue
  • Eliminate Trigger Points (micro-tearing in the muscle causing a hyper irritable focus)
  • Improve and maintain the range of motion of joints
  • Relieve pain
  • Promote symmetry and balance
  • Provide the general benefits of touch

Through the use of massage therapy, stretching, and hydrotherapy I will design each treatment specific to your horse's needs. I will work closely with your veterinarian as well as any other horse-care professionals to ensure your horse is receiving the best possible treatments.


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The benefits of regular stretching:

  • Helps maintain muscle and joint health and range of motion
  • Helps maintain and improve flexibility and mobility
  • Helps to prevent injury and enhance performance
  • Decreases recovery time needed after injury
  • Helps reduce the effects of muscle strain and realign fibres
  • Promotes symmetry within the body
  • Provides the horse with a general sense of well being

What is an REMT?

Registered Equine Massage Therapists (REMTs) have the knowledge, training and experience to serve as valuable members of the equine health care team. The designation Registered Equine Massage Therapist (REMT) is a title legally protected by the IFREMT, and may only be used by those individuals that have met the established standards of qualification and successfully completed the accreditation process. Entrance exams to become registered with the IFREMT include both a written component, and a practical component that is overseen by a supervising veterinarian.

REMTs are committed to substantive training and maintaining the highest standards in their profession. Similar to the education requirements in Ontario for Registered Massage Therapists (RMTs), Registered Equine Massage Therapists must complete a 2-year, 2200 hour program of study. In addition, REMTs undertake a 100-hour externship with an equine veterinarian.

The REMT title is distinct from “Certified Equine Massage Therapist” (CEMT). “Certification” in equine massage is offered by a number of different schools, individuals and organizations. These programs vary in content and may range from one week or weekend to one month or several month-long courses of study and there is no standard of education. CEMT's have no governing body and each school sets their own standards of qualification. It is important to do your research and ensure you are finding a therapist that suits your needs.