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VeteRinary GuidelInes
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons issued new guidance in November 2020 setting out the existing rules for musculoskeletal treatment of illness, disease or pathology and clarifying that healthy animals do not require a veterinary referral for maintenance care. The guidance stresses that all therapists are part of the vet-led team, and that any animal, including healthy ones, should be registered with a veterinary surgeon and referred to a vet at the first sign of any symptoms that may suggest underlying health issues.
The guidance also notes that vets should be confident that the musculoskeletal therapist is appropriately qualified; indicators of this can include membership of a voluntary regulatory body with a register of practitioners, and associated standards of education and conduct, supported by a complaints and disciplinary process. This includes the International Association of Animal Therapists, of which I am a full member.
VeterInary consent to trEat
When booking an appointment with me, I will ask you:
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To confirm your horse is registered at a veterinary practice; and
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If your horse is currently undergoing any treatment from a vet.
If they are not receiving treatment, and the massage is for maintenance purposes only, veterinary consent is not required.
If your horse is currently receiving veterinary care, I will ask that you contact your vet to gain their approval for me to treat your horse. This can usually be done via a quick phone call, which I am happy to do on your behalf if you’d prefer.
Please note, I am not legally permitted to diagnose illness or lameness in your horse and, at the first sign of any such medical issue, I will cease treatment and ask you to contact your vet for further investigation.
ContrAindications
Fever:
If your horse is experiencing a fever or is generally unwell, a massage may put additional stress on the horse's body and could potentially exacerbate the illness.
Infections:
Infectious skin conditions such as ringworm.
Infectious diseases such as strangles, tetanus and pneumonia. Acute stages of viral diseases such as equine flu or herpes.
LaMeness:
If I arrive at your appointment and believe your horse is lame, I will unfortunately not be able to treat until you have consent from your vet.
Acute injurIes:
If your horse has recently suffered from a traumatic injury, such as a torn muscle or kick resulting in a haematoma, you must wait three days until sports massage can be performed. This is to allow the acute phase of trauma to pass.
Open wounds or infections:
Massage should not be performed on areas with open wounds, recent surgical incisions, or active infections. These areas require proper veterinary care and healing before any massage can be considered. With vet’s approval, I may massage the rest of the body.
Acute arthritis:
In the early stages, this is too painful for the horse to have massaged and could worsen the inflammation. Once the acute stage has passed, I may massage.
PrEgnancy:
If your mare is pregnant, it's advisable to consult with a vet and notify me of your mare’s condition. Special care and techniques may be required to ensure the safety and comfort of both the mare and the unborn foal.