What types of horses do you work on?
I work on horses of all breeds, disciplines, and ages — including performance horses, pleasure horses, senior horses, and minis. Each session is tailored to the individual horse’s needs, comfort level, and workload.
How long is a typical massage session?
Most massage sessions are scheduled for approximately 60-90 minutes. Some horses may benefit from additional time depending on their needs, which will always be discussed with you before extending a session.
What should I expect during my horse’s session?
Each session begins with observation and hands-on assessment. Bodywork may include a combination of techniques such as Swedish strokes, sports massage, myofascial release, stretching, and acupressure-based work. Sessions are always adjusted based on how your horse responds.
Do I need to be present during the session?
You are always welcome to be present, but it is not required for routine massage sessions. Owner presence is required for initial assessments so we can review history, goals, and observations together.
How often should my horse receive massage?
Frequency depends on your horse’s individual needs, workload, and what is found during evaluation. Following an initial assessment, massage may be recommended anywhere from 1–3 times weekly, particularly in cases involving significant tension, compensation patterns, or discomfort. As the horse improves, sessions typically transition to a maintenance schedule. Ongoing recommendations are always pending evaluation and adjusted based on the horse’s response to bodywork.
Will I see immediate results?
Many owners notice changes immediately, such as increased relaxation, improved movement, or a calmer demeanor. Some horses may show more subtle changes over the next 24–72 hours as their body processes the work.
Is massage safe for sensitive or nervous horses?
Yes. Sessions are always approached calmly and respectfully. Pressure and techniques are modified based on the horse’s comfort level and responses.
Can pregnant mares receive massage?
Yes. Pregnant mares can receive massage with appropriate modifications. Certain techniques and pressure levels are avoided to ensure comfort and safety. Please let me know in advance if your mare is pregnant so the session can be tailored accordingly.
When should massage be postponed?
Massage may be postponed or modified if your horse has: Illness or fever; Active fungal or bacterial infection; Acute trauma or recent injury; Extreme or unexplained lameness; Colic or a recent colic episode. If you’re unsure, please reach out — safety always comes first.
What should my horse do after a massage session?
Light work or rest is typically recommended following a session. Adequate hydration is important, and electrolytes may be recommended post-massage to support muscle hydration and recovery.
Do you offer discounts for multiple horses?
Yes. Multiple horse discounts are available when horses are located at the same barn and scheduled back-to-back on the same day. Discounted sessions include approximately 45 minutes of bodywork per horse.
“Will one session fix everything?”
While some horses show noticeable changes after one session, long-standing tension or compensation patterns often require multiple sessions. Frequency and progression are always pending evaluation and adjusted based on the horse’s response to bodywork.
“Is massage safe for performance horses?”
Massage is commonly used for performance horses to support comfort, mobility, and recovery. Pre- and post-event sessions are adjusted to suit training and competition schedules, and recommendations are tailored to each horse’s workload.
What happens if my horse needs more than 60-90 minutes?
As we approach the 60-90 minute mark, I will communicate with you if additional time would be beneficial. With owner approval, extended time may be added at $20 per additional 30 minutes, or remaining work may be scheduled for a future appointment.
How do I book an appointment?
Appointments are scheduled through Equigate. Download the app, create a free client account, add your horse(s) and address, then connect with me by searching Flying B's Integrated Equine Therapy.
What areas do you service and is there a travel fee?
I provide mobile services with travel fees based on distance. Travel fees may be split when multiple horses are booked at the same barn Services are offered throughout Ohio and Indiana but not limited to travel by appointment only. Please don't hesitate to ask if I am available to travel to your area.
Do you work alongside veterinarians and other professionals?
Yes. I believe in a team approach to equine care and am happy to collaborate with veterinarians, chiropractors, farriers, and other equine professionals when appropriate.
“Will massage hurt my horse?”
Equine massage should never be painful. Sessions are guided by the horse’s responses, body language, and comfort level. Pressure and techniques are adjusted throughout the session, and the horse is always allowed to relax, move, or take breaks as needed. The goal is to support comfort and release tension — not force change.
“My horse is sensitive or grumpy — will massage make it worse?”
Sensitive or reactive horses often benefit the most from massage. Sessions are approached calmly and respectfully, allowing the horse time to process and respond. Techniques are modified for sensitive horses, and many show signs of relaxation such as yawning, licking, chewing, or softer movement as the session progresses.
“Is equine massage just a ‘feel-good’ thing, or does it actually help?”
While massage is relaxing, it also supports muscle health, circulation, range of motion, and overall comfort. Many owners notice improvements in movement, flexibility, attitude, and willingness to work. Massage is commonly used as part of a preventative care routine to help maintain soundness and reduce compensatory tension.
“Will massage replace my veterinarian or chiropractor?”
Equine massage does not replace veterinary care or chiropractic treatment. It is a complementary service that supports the body between veterinary visits. I believe in a team approach to equine care and am always happy to work alongside veterinarians and other professionals when appropriate.
“What if my horse has an injury or medical issue?”
Safety always comes first. Certain conditions may require postponing or modifying massage, and in some cases veterinary guidance is recommended before proceeding. Clear communication ensures sessions are appropriate and supportive for the horse’s current condition.
“How will my horse react after a massage?”
Most horses are relaxed after a session and may move more freely. Some horses experience mild post-session fatigue or changes over the next 24–72 hours as their body adjusts. Light work or rest and proper hydration are typically recommended following a session.
“How do you know what my horse needs?”
Each session begins with observation and hands-on assessment. Bodywork is guided by what is felt and observed during the session, not a preset routine. Every horse is treated as an individual.