2 answers
Bobbie
Student
Hague, ND
2
Questions
Updated
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What kind of online programs I could get into next year if I am interested in becoming a certified equine massage therapist ?
I'm a freshman in high school and interested in becoming a certified equine massage therapist. Are there any online programs or courses I can take during my sophomore year that would introduce me to the field or potentially count towards certification later on? I currently go to school in North Dakota.
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2 answers
Dr H
Dr. H's Research
1334
Answers
Australia
Updated
Dr’s Answer
Hey Bobbie,
First off, kudos to you for wanting to become an equine massage therapist! Combining a love for horses with therapeutic skills? That's a win-win—for you and the horses. 🐴💆♀️
Online Courses to Get You Started:
While you're still in high school, diving into online courses can give you a solid foundation. Here are a few options:
Holistic Animal Studies offers an Equine Massage Certification Course that's entirely online. It includes PowerPoint presentations, video demonstrations, and instructional videos. You'll learn both fundamental and advanced massage techniques necessary for practicing Equine Myo-manipulative Functional Therapy (EMFT).
Equissage International Inc. provides an Equine Home Study Program. This program starts with the basics of massage therapy and thoroughly educates students in every aspect of the discipline. As a graduate, you'll be confident in providing equine massage therapy in an effective, therapeutic, and professional manner.
The Masterson Method offers the Beyond Horse Massage Home Study Course. This self-guided, online course provides structured practice of techniques taught during their weekend courses. Note: It's recommended to own and have read the "Beyond Horse Massage" book before starting.
Understanding Certification and Legalities:
Before you gallop ahead, it's essential to understand the certification requirements and legalities in North Dakota. The North Dakota Board of Massage Therapy requires completion of an approved massage therapy education program accredited by a recognized agency.
However, regulations for animal massage can vary. The National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM) provides certification exams for equine massage and offers resources on state laws.
Tips and Skills to Develop Now:
Horse Handling: Spend time around horses to become comfortable and understand their behavior. Volunteer at local stables or equine therapy centers.
Or I could hand you my horse 😉! Kiddin my horse is wilder than a bear in the dark night forest protecting her cubs.
Anatomy Knowledge: Start learning about equine anatomy. Knowing the muscles and skeletal structure is crucial.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the field. They can offer insights, mentorship, and potential opportunities.
Stay Informed: Laws and regulations can change. Regularly check resources like the International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork (IAAMB) for updates.
Remember, while online courses can provide foundational knowledge, hands-on experience is invaluable. Once you're eligible, consider attending workshops or in-person training sessions to hone your skills.
Best of luck on your journey to becoming an equine massage therapist! The horses of North Dakota (and beyond) will thank you.
First off, kudos to you for wanting to become an equine massage therapist! Combining a love for horses with therapeutic skills? That's a win-win—for you and the horses. 🐴💆♀️
Online Courses to Get You Started:
While you're still in high school, diving into online courses can give you a solid foundation. Here are a few options:
Holistic Animal Studies offers an Equine Massage Certification Course that's entirely online. It includes PowerPoint presentations, video demonstrations, and instructional videos. You'll learn both fundamental and advanced massage techniques necessary for practicing Equine Myo-manipulative Functional Therapy (EMFT).
Equissage International Inc. provides an Equine Home Study Program. This program starts with the basics of massage therapy and thoroughly educates students in every aspect of the discipline. As a graduate, you'll be confident in providing equine massage therapy in an effective, therapeutic, and professional manner.
The Masterson Method offers the Beyond Horse Massage Home Study Course. This self-guided, online course provides structured practice of techniques taught during their weekend courses. Note: It's recommended to own and have read the "Beyond Horse Massage" book before starting.
Understanding Certification and Legalities:
Before you gallop ahead, it's essential to understand the certification requirements and legalities in North Dakota. The North Dakota Board of Massage Therapy requires completion of an approved massage therapy education program accredited by a recognized agency.
However, regulations for animal massage can vary. The National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM) provides certification exams for equine massage and offers resources on state laws.
Tips and Skills to Develop Now:
Horse Handling: Spend time around horses to become comfortable and understand their behavior. Volunteer at local stables or equine therapy centers.
Or I could hand you my horse 😉! Kiddin my horse is wilder than a bear in the dark night forest protecting her cubs.
Anatomy Knowledge: Start learning about equine anatomy. Knowing the muscles and skeletal structure is crucial.
Networking: Connect with professionals in the field. They can offer insights, mentorship, and potential opportunities.
Stay Informed: Laws and regulations can change. Regularly check resources like the International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork (IAAMB) for updates.
Remember, while online courses can provide foundational knowledge, hands-on experience is invaluable. Once you're eligible, consider attending workshops or in-person training sessions to hone your skills.
Best of luck on your journey to becoming an equine massage therapist! The horses of North Dakota (and beyond) will thank you.
Isabel Dominguez
Student
115
Answers
Corning, California
Updated
Isabel’s Answer
Hey Bobbie!
Yes! Since you're in North Dakota and still in high school, you can start with online introductory courses in equine anatomy, massage techniques, and horse care. While full certification programs often require hands-on training, some online programs can provide foundational knowledge and may count toward certification later.
Consider programs like:
Equissage – Offers online theory courses with hands-on training later.
Holistic Animal Studies – Provides online equine massage courses.
Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute – Offers equine bodywork courses.
You can also explore veterinary or equine science courses through platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or local community colleges.
Yes! Since you're in North Dakota and still in high school, you can start with online introductory courses in equine anatomy, massage techniques, and horse care. While full certification programs often require hands-on training, some online programs can provide foundational knowledge and may count toward certification later.
Consider programs like:
Equissage – Offers online theory courses with hands-on training later.
Holistic Animal Studies – Provides online equine massage courses.
Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute – Offers equine bodywork courses.
You can also explore veterinary or equine science courses through platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or local community colleges.
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Bobbie