Horse Jobs – Massage Therapist

Those drawn to a massage therapy position have an extraordinary amount of compassion and patience. This is another of the intensely hands-on horse professions which requires strength of body as well as a love of equines.

Massage therapists spend their time working with animals who are experiencing pain which leads to a high stress level. This requires quiet confidence and the ability to remain calm, be patient and soothe the nerves of both patients and their owners.

This is a position which benefits a high degree of practical knowledge & experience, intuitive independent thinking and a responsible attitude.

A gentle nature, a genuine love of the animal and the ability to learn on your feet are essentials for being a great equine massage therapist.

Image from Atlantic Equine Massage

Job Description

Therapeutic application of hands-on massage techniques for the purpose of increasing circulation, relaxing muscles, relieving tension, enhancing muscle tone and increasing range of motion.

Responsibilities

Requirements

Besides a high school and basic college education, a massage therapist must go through schooling to be certified in massage therapy by a licensed school.
*Certification varies by state regulations.

Resources

A few places to start if you are interested in a career as an equine massage therapist.

*Links open in a new window
International Association of Animal Massage Therapists
International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork
Association of Complementary Animal Therapies
National Association of Equine Massage Therapists
Equine Sports Massage Association

The Right Job For You?

If this isn’t your dream job, there is a long list of different careers that involve horses. Each one requiring a different skill set, schooling requirement and amount of contact with the animals.

Image from Optimum Choices