The Horse, of course... "he'll never let you down...he's honest and faithful right up to the end...that wonderful 1...2...3...4 legged friend!" Roy Rogers
Alternative therapies such as massage and acupuncture have been applied to horses for many years with excellent results. The human athlete does not wait until an injury becomes chronic before seeking professional attention. A Horse - the biggest and strongest athlete of all, should not have to wait either.
Horses exert tremendous physical effort in both leisure and competitive riding. Yet, many people think the rider is the only one susceptible to muscle discomfort, fatigue and injury resulting from these equestrian pursuits...NOTHING COULD BE FURTHER FROM THE TRUTH. Ailments associated with humans participating in sports afflict the equine athlete as well. Like people, horses are very prone to pain and injury. Any condition you can imagine, that might affect your health and overall well-being, can be seen in animals as well, in particular the horse. Being the worlds most tremendous athlete, horses often suffer from muscle strain and injuries. Alternative therapies such as massage and acupuncture have been applied to horses for many years with excellent results. The human athlete does not wait until an injury becomes chronic before seeking professional attention. A Horse - the biggest and strongest athlete of all, should not have to wait either.
From the pregnant mare to the Grand Prix show jumper, from the competitive dressage horse to the backyard trail pet, all horses benefit exceptionally from massage therapy. The arthritic geriatric horse is most receptive to massage, as are the young ones, who injure themselves in the pasture. The school horse who has to adjust to many different riders is certain to appreciate some
attention as would any pregnant mare.
Before beginning any alternative therapies, consult your vet. Alternative therapies are best when used in conjunction with your vet's advice. I am not licensed to prescribe medications, make medical diagnosis or in anyway meant to replace your vet.
From the pregnant mare to the Grand Prix show jumper, from the competitive dressage horse to the backyard trail pet, all horses benefit exceptionally from massage therapy. The arthritic geriatric horse is most receptive to massage, as are the young ones, who injure themselves in the pasture. The school horse who has to adjust to many different riders is certain to appreciate some
attention as would any pregnant mare.
Before beginning any alternative therapies, consult your vet. Alternative therapies are best when used in conjunction with your vet's advice. I am not licensed to prescribe medications, make medical diagnosis or in anyway meant to replace your vet.
The following examples illustrate just a few scenarios and situations that can adversely affect a horses physical well-being and performance....
Jumping of any kind Precision Dressage Movements Reining/Cutting Over Training Bad Footing Too Rapid Training After Injury Incorrect or Ill Fitting Tack Adverse Weather Conditions Skill Level & Experience of Rider Emotional Trauma or Issues Transporting Long Distances Arthritis Pregnancy Age |