Skilled Certified Equine Massage Therapists (CEMTs) use their skills to perform soft-tissue massage with the goal of removing tension and knots from the muscle, allowing it to return to a relaxed state. These therapeutic services can provide many benefits to horses including increased physical performance, comfort, and improved freedom of movement.
As with any equine professional it is important to find someone who is educated, experienced, and certified by a recognized body which tests and evaluates their skills. When starting your search for a CEMT, it is always good to talk with your current equine professional team as they may have recommendations or suggestions for CEMTs working in your area. Failing to find a suitable candidate through your circle of professionals, social media platforms, local feed shops, and talking to other equestrians at shows and events can often prove great alternative sources for generating leads.
Once you have managed to find a potential CEMT candidate to service your horse, we suggest asking the following questions:
Where did they receive their certification?
How long was their training period, and where did they study?
Ask questions regarding their knowledge of anatomical form and function of the horse.
Ask them about their equine background, skills, and experience handling horses.
Ask whether they work with any other equine care professionals in your area such as veterinarians, farriers, etc.
Ask them what their suggested course of treatment is, and what results should be expected.
Ask for references, and find out if they are providing services at a location near you where you could watch them interact with clients’ horses.