What to Expect

 

The horse needs to be in a suitable confined area with their handler present. Please ensure  that the horse is clean. Hard feed (grain) is to be withheld for an hour prior to the treatment. It is acceptable for the horse to have hay. The horse is not to be exercised prior to its massage session. You will be asked to sign some paperwork. Please ensure that your veterinary surgeon is aware that the horse/dog will be receiving massage/shiatsu treatment and is happy to consent to this. The first session may be anywhere between 1-2 hours in length.  I will be taking a detailed history watch the horse in static and dynamic motion.

 

Please be sure to inform the therapist prior to the visit if the horse is showing any of the following contraindications:

 

High temperature

Elevated respiration

Elevated heartbeat

Viral/Bacterial infection

Skin infection

Parasites

Undiagnosed lumps/swellings

Cancer/tumours

Cysts

Fractures

Acute trauma/muscle injury

Diarrhoea

Colitis

Azoturia

Colic

Undiagnosed lameness

Dehydration

Nervous system dysfunction

Pregnancy

Acute arthritis

Severe unexplained pain

Lymphangitis

If the horse is taking phenylbutazone.