Equine Sports Massage is a very effective therapy and has become an established treatment option to complement veterinary care. However, it is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis and treatment and as a professional equine sports massage therapist I only work in line with the guidance set out in the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 and 2015 exemptions order, which states: “Musculoskeletal maintenance care for a healthy animal, for instance massage, does not require delegation by a veterinary surgeon. However, the animal must still be registered with a veterinary surgeon. Maintenance should cease and the owner of the animal should be asked to take their animal to a veterinary

surgeon for clinical examination at the first sign that there may be any underlying injury, disease or pathology. Alternatively, the musculoskeletal therapist may ask the client for formal consent to disclose any concerns to the veterinary surgeon that has their animal under their care.

If in doubt, an owner should always consult their Veterinary Surgeon before seeking massage treatment in order to ensure there are no underlying health issues or contraindications to massage. Upon making your appointment, I will ask you to provide the contact details of your horse’s vet to ensure best practice is being followed.