Animal Bodywork 101

Animal bodywork practices are methods that treat problems in animals such as joint and muscle pain, soft tissue injuries, and anxiety. They are often termed complementary therapies because they are used to complement or work in conjunction with your veterinarian’s treatment.

These practices are valuable because they can help your animal heal faster, feel better because they are more relaxed, and experience increased cellular activity. Many types of bodywork go hand in hand with the training of horses and other animals who are athletes and preparing for competitions.

Can I Get Bodywork Done On…?

Yes, you can have bodywork done on a variety of animals. Horses and Dogs are our most common clients however, we also have seen goats, cats, and even a duck! Every species can benefit from complementary therapies.

How To Decide Which One?

There are many different types of bodywork therapies that work well on animals. They all have different functions and benefits.

We will often consult with your veterinarian to collaborate on treatment methods. For instance, your vet may prescribe NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to help alleviate pain. Complementary therapies will work to address the problem and help the animal recover so they do not need NSAIDS.

At Cork N Mane we work with you to develop a plan for your animal. Every situation is unique. In addition, one of our greatest strengths is that we take the time to get to know your animal. Susan will meet your pet where they are that day.

Hal sitting on the PEMF Pulse mat during therapy.

CEMT Certified Equestrian Sports Massage

Massage therapy is a common way that human athletes use to relieve pain and increase performance. We can apply the same practical applications to horses. You may also have heard this called stress point therapy, trigger point therapy, and myofascial release techniques. This just means we use our body (finger, hand, elbow) to apply pressure to certain points on the horse’s body.

• Reduced muscle tension and soreness

• Greater flexibility and range of motion

• Increased sense of well-being

• Enhance muscle blood flow and lactate clearance

Masterson Certification Program

The Masterson Method takes animal massage one step farther. Developed by Jim Masterson, this method is based on observing the horses behavior and reading their body language so that you can determine where they are having pain. Masterson Training teaches us to work with the horse - not on the horse!

Relaxes the horse's body

Relieves stress and pain in the muscles and connective tissue

See the skeleton and muscle system as one

Builds trust

Muscle Taping

Muscle Taping or Elastic Kinesiology is used both during athletic events and in recovery from an injury. Kinesiology taping provides support, stabilization and relieves swelling for your horse. By providing soft tissue manipulation the tape mimics a massage.

• Speeds recovery after workout or event

• Helps lift and separate fascia

• Improves tissue mobility and circulation.

• Helps prevent reinjury

• Decreases inflammation

Read our article on Equine Kinesiology Taping to learn more!

Myofascial Relief Therapy

Animal Neuro-myofascial Release Technique, also known as ANMR, is a body alignment technique that can be used on large and small animals. It often uses a tool that causes motion in the soft tissues. It is typically used in addition with massage.

• Helps with back pain

• Helps with bending and flexibility problems

• On horses, it is often used on stiff stifles

• With dogs, it is often used to treat hip dysplasia

Niagra Equissage

This is Cycloid Vibration Therapy. It is very safe and easy to use to treat soft tissue injuries, sore muscles, and joints.

• Performance Improvement

• Helps to prevent injury by increasing circulation to the soft tissue areas before and after exercise.

PEMF Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy

Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field technology uses energy to stimulate the cells. This therapy is for a wide range of species. It is administered by rings that are placed on the animal’s body or via a mat that they can lie down on.

Pulse also can be used in palliative care to alleviate symptoms. It can’t cure cancer but it can give a better quality of life while your pet undergoes medical treatment.

• Decreases inflammation

• Improves Circulation

• Aids in muscle fatigue

• Very relaxing so the animal’s body can heal

Red Light Therapy

Red light therapy sometimes called Phototherapy, LED therapy, or Infrared therapy uses light waves to heal the body. The light is absorbed by the skin and stimulates the cell.

• Speeds up healing

• Works well on salivary issues

• Can be used to treat hematomas and bursitis

• Rejuvenates skin

Red Light Therapy using ReVita Vet Treatment System. Photo by Susan Dickinson.

Saddle Fitting

Having a saddle that fits correctly is very important for your horse. A rider puts pressure on the horse’s skeletal and muscle systems. Having a saddle that fits correctly is crucial.

Thermal Imaging

Thermal imaging is a non-invasive imaging technique that is used to measure the difference in surface temperatures. It can identify issues in order to treat the animal most efficiently:

• Muscle and joint injuries

• Spine issues

• Pressure from the saddle

• Hoof bruises

Susan has received certifications and training in the above practices.

Author, Ame Vanorio, does social media and design work for Cork N Mane. She is the mother of several rescue animals.