Welcome to some new & different blogs we are going to be writing throughout 2020.
We at Divine have a small yard of 5 horses, they vary in ages from young to very old & we are going to be releasing some of our ways in which we keep our small herd healthy.
So we are kicking off today with Equine Sports Massage, this is a therapy we use on a regular basis for every horse we have. Even fully retired 30 year olds get a massage every horse loves it & it helps to keep there bodies in tip top shape.
Equine massage is far removed from someone turning up & putting hands on said horse & rubbing then leaving, its a whole new ball game.
There are many forms & ways plus many qualified people.
What are the main things you should look for in a massage person?
1- insured
2- Is qualified this is normally part of the insurance as most wont be insured if not qualified.
3 - Asks for Vet details
4 - Wants a full history of your Horse prior to treating
5 - Want to see horse move & trot up without rugs prior to treating
6 - Gives a full written report on findings
If you dont get all of the above then in our honest opinion dont go there. true professional will be happy to share any sore spots & advice on stretches & exercises they wont just leave.
We are very lucky to have a the Wonderful Nicola Robertson from 5 Star Equine Massage who looks after our yard. She is an experienced, fully qualified Equine Sports Massage Therapist who, for your peace of mind, is insured and registered with The International Association of Animal Therapists.
Why use massage?
ALL HORSES can benefit from an equine sports massage treatment. This can range from the treasured family pony, to top quality competition horses competing in any sphere. They all can benefit…
MASSAGE SHOULD BE PART OF THE ROUTINE CARE FOR THE HORSE
Used during training and pre and post competition massage keeps muscles healthy, builds up those that may have wasted, maintains strength and suppleness and prevents atrophy even during a period of box rest or restricted work. After exertion massage minimises stiffness and speeds repair to tissue damaged as an inevitable result of physical stress and fatigue. Passive stretches help to keep or restore joints and muscles to full working capacity.
OTHERS WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM EQUINE SPORTS MASSAGE:
BENEFITS OF EQUINE SPORTS MASSAGE
In the horse, the various massage and stretching techniques enable the horse to perform to its full potential by:
Massage can benefit the well being of the animal, release tension and aid mental relaxation. In the event of an Injury, massage is of great benefit to aid recovery and prevent atrophy (wasting) of muscles.
Other things to take in to account when choosing your therapist...
One thing people also need to take into account is how your horse reacts, we have used many therapists over the years & im always led by my horses. If the horses dont respond well to the therapist then they rarely come back. Just like us horses wont like every person that arrives in there domain.
Its important that they enjoy there treatment & can respond to an empathetic therapist. This is something that i think can be missed and is extreme importance.
If your looking for a Equine Massage Therapist in the NW we cant recommend 5 Star Equine Massage Enough.
https://www.facebook.com/5starequinemassage/
Other places to start looking for your new therapist is -