I am an enthusiastic participant in dog agility, and have been instructing since January 2004. With my own and students’ dogs, I’ve seen the benefits that conditioning and cross-training, regular massage, stretching and bodywork has had on their athleticism and ability. I am in the process of developing a specific aqua-conditioning program for agility athletes.
The journey into bodywork began with my first horse, who lived to be an active 35 years old. In my pursuit to give him the best senior years possible, I achieved certification as an Equine Body Worker (EBW) from Equinology Inc. in August 2006. I was awarded the 2007 J.W. Pattillo Scholarship to help further my training with advanced studies at Equinology, an honour and an opportunity that I am very grateful for.
In August 2008, I became certified as a canine massage practitioner, and dogs were added to Backstretch’s services. I have also certified in Canine Myofascial Release, and continue to take various courses on a yearly basis to broaden my knowledge base and keep abreast of changes in the field. I’ve been teaching an annual class at a human massage college, and have presented a series of workshops to Dressage enthusiasts with superficial and deep muscles painted directly on the horse to demonstrate which muscle groups are engaged in different movements.
I am committed to improving my knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis. This is accomplished through attending courses, seminars, workshops, and conferences; keeping abreast of current research via the web, trade publications, books and DVDs; and taking every opportunity to discuss issues with veterinarians and other professionals. I am committed to providing the best care possible to my canine (and equine) clientele.