Most therapists correctly insist on working alongside conventional medicine, and together can often help improve the horse’s health.  The Veterinary Surgeons Act (1966) was passed to safeguard the welfare of sick or injured animals and states that it is an offence for any person, other than the owner of the animal, to treat an animal unless the permission of the vet in charge of the case or to whom the animal would be referred, is sought and obtained.

A veterinary approval/permission form is usually completed prior to the first treatment (please click Permission Form or Terms and Conditions) although in some cases, permission can be given over the telephone. If the horse were to be lame, unhealthy or have any potential contraindications to the massage, the vet may wish to see the animal first or be able to advise the therapist. If there are concerns about the horse at any stage of the treatment, they will be referred back to the vet but in any event , the vet can be kept informed of treatment progress if appropriate. Likewise, if the horse may benefit from a visit from the farrier, saddle fitter or horse dentist, this will be recommended to the owner.