Animal Massage Guide » Schools

Holistic Animal Health Events & Workshops in USA and Canada: March – April 2012

cattie — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 12:16:29 +0000

After what has been one of the weather-wise best winters ever in my opinion (no snow, only a few days below freezing), it’s starting to feel like spring. Every morning, the birds are singing outside my window, and there is a glimmer of daylight left when I leave work in the evening. It really does feel like life is beginning again.

And there is activity everywhere; there are are a LOT of events coming up in the next few months. Because this list is starting to grow out of control, I decided to split it up, so from now on, the UK gets its own separate list. I think it makes more sense to do it that way too. So today, I’m posting this, and tomorrow will be the UK list.

March is
Adopt a Guinea Pig Month

March 1 is National Horse Protection Day
March 18-24 is Animal Poison Prevention Week
March 19-25 is National Wildlife Week

April is
Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month
National Pet First Aid Awareness Month
National Heartworm Awareness Month
National Greyhound Adoption Month
Prevent Lyme in Dogs Month
National Frog Month

April 4 is World Rat Day
April 7 is International Beaver Day
April 10 is National Farm Animals Day
April 16-24 is World Week for Animals in Laboratories
April 29 is National Hairball Awareness Day

As usual, if you know of an event that belongs on this list, please contact me and I will add it.

ARIZONA

April 12-15: Shamanic Retreat, Phoenix, AZ
4-day retreat at Bumble Bee Ranch where you learn about shamanism and Shamanic techniques to help heal both humans and animals. Instructor: Carla Meeske

CALIFORNIA

March 3-4: Reiki I & Animal Reiki Training: The Basics, Santa Rosa, CA
2-day workshop at BrightHaven, a holistic care facility for senior and special needs animals (half of the class fee is donated to BrightHaven), where you learn the basics of Reiki and how to use it on both humans and animals. Instructor: Kathleen Prasad of Animal Reiki Source

March 9-11: Equine Myofascial Release I, Ojai, CA
3-day hands-on workshop where you learn the basics of Equine Myofascial Release. Instructor: Tamara Thomas

March 30 – April 1: Equine Massage & Bodywork for Owners, Petaluma, CA
Three-day hands-on workshop where you learn the basics of equine massage, muscle release and stretching. Taught by Equinology

March 31: Equine Acupressure and Massage, Fulton, CA
Learn the signs and causes of colic in horses, and acupressure and massage techniques that help. Instructor: Diana Thompson (Equinology)

March 31 – April 1: Animal Communication Workshop, Agoura, CA
Learn the basics of animal communication at this 2-day workshop. Instructor: Carol Gurney

April 2-13: Equine Body Worker Certification Course, Petaluma, CA
12-day Equinology certification course at Flying Cloud Farm. Taught by Equinology

April 13: Reiki Level I, Lompoc, CA
Reiki 1 certification class at Return to Freedom. Instructor: Cindy Rackley

April 13-15: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, San Diego, CA
3-day workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for small and large animals. Instructor: Madeleine Ferbal

April 14: Introduction to Energy Medicine, Lompoc, CA
2-day workshop at Return to Freedom where you learn about energy healing. Instructor: Cindy Rackley

April 15: Animal Communication, Lompoc, CA
1-day workshop at Return to Freedom where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Cindy Rackley

April 21-22: Animal Bowen, Large Animals Module One, Laguna Niguel, CA
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of Animal Bowen. Instructor: Carol Bennett of Animal Connection Network

COLORADO

March 3: Practitioner’s Workshop, Littleton CO
1-day workshop at Happy Dog Ranch featuring lectures in animal chiropractic (Dr. Dave Siemens), craniosacral therapy (Tracy Vroom), animal communication (Lisa Delong), photon therapy (Janet Crow), massage (RMSAAM), and natural equine dentistry (Syd Burt). When not on stage, each practitioner will also offer treatments for your pet.

March 3: Holistic Horse Day, Littleton, CO
Learn the basics of muscle testing and how to communicate with your horse at Zuma’s Rescue Ranch. Instructor: Anna Twinney of Reach Out To Horses

March 3-7 & April 17-21: Equine Massage Level 1, Littleton, CO
5-day equine massage certificate class (with required pre and post course work). Instructor: Linda Aaron of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage (RMSAAM)

March 8-12: Small Animal Acupressure Level 1, Longmont, CO
5-day class where you learn the basics of Usui Reiki and how to use it with small animals. Instructor: Beth Pelosa of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage (RMSAAM)

March 9-11: Holistic Horse Fair, Littleton, CO
Holistic horse fair at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo featuring lectures and talks on craniosacral therapy, acupuncture, animal communication, shamanic healing, equine assisted therapy, integrated approaches to equine health, how to know which alternative therapy to choose, holistic medicine case studies, as well as equine health business topics. Presenters include Kim Baker (KB Natural Horsemanship), Dan Craig (Farrier, On Track Horse Care), Tracy Vroom (The Cranio Connection), Robin Davis (Holistic Herd), Francis Fitzgerald-Cleveland, and Mary Walewski (Buy The Book Marketing).

March 13-14 & April 20-21: Animal Reiki, Castle Rock, CO
2-day class where you learn the basics of Usui Reiki for animals. Instructor: Shelley Sheets of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage (RMSAAM)

March 15-18 & April 4-7: Canine Massage Level 1, Castle Rock, CO
4-day certificate massage class (with required pre and post course work). Instructors: Cynthia Edwards & Linda Aaron of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage (RMSAAM)

March 16-17: Reiki 1 & 2, Golden, CO
2-day Reiki certification class. Instructor: Anna Twinney of Reach Out To Horses

March 16-18: Introduction to Small Animal Acupressure, Denver, CO
Learn the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine concepts and theories and how they relate to acupressure, as well as how to perform a complete acupressure treatment protocol. Instructors: Amy Snow and Nancy Zidonis of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute

March 16-18: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Denver, CO
Learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method at this hands-on 3-day small and large animal workshop. Instructor: Carol Komitor

March 17-18: Shamanic Workshop, Littleton, CO
2-day workshop in Shamanism at Happy Dog Ranch. Instructors: Tracy Vroom and Sharon Bringleson

March 17-18: Camelidynamics Basics Clinic, Golden, CO
2-day workshop at Jefferson County Fairgrounds where you learn the basics of Camelidynamics (TTouch for camelids). Instructor: Marty McGee Bennett

March 19 & April 14: Intro to Animal Aromatics, Kaeru Studio, Littleton, CO,
1-day workshop where you learn the basics of working with animals and essential oils. Also includes an intro to applied kinesiology. Instructor: Frances Cleveland

March 24: Animal Communication, Littleton, CO
Learn the basics of animal communication at this workshop at Hero’s Pet’s. Instructor: Sky Heartsong

March 29 – April 1: Introduction to CranioSacral Therapy, Littleton, CO
4-day class at Happy Dog Ranch where you learn the basics of CranioSacral therapy. Instructor: Tracy Vroom

April 9-15: Animal Acupressure Level 1, Longmont, CO
7-day class where you learn the basics of Usui Reiki for small and large animals. Instructor: Beth Pelosa of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage (RMSAAM)

April 13: Animal Communication Evening, Littleton, CO
Introduction to animal communication at Happy Dog Ranch. Instructor: Anna Twinney of Reach Out To Horses

April 14-15: The Art of Animal Communication, Littleton, CO
2-day animal communication class at Happy Dog Ranch. Instructor: Anna Twinney of Reach Out To Horses

FLORIDA

March 3-4: Animal Communication, West Palm Beach, FL
2-day animal communication workshop. Instructor: Amelia Kinkade

March 3-4: Animal Bowen, Small Animals Module One, Gainesville, FL
2-day class at Alachua Conservation Trust where you learn the basics of Animal Bowen. Instructor: Dr. Lynn Peck of Animal Connection Network

March 6-9: Canine Massage Level 1, Cape Coral, FL
4-day canine massage certificate class (pre and post course work required). Instructor: Kelly Legarreta of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage

March 14: Introduction to Canine Massage, Sarasota, FL
1-day workshop where you learn the basics of canine massage. Taught by Abundant Life Massage

April 21-22: Jin Shin Jyutsu, Destin, FL
2-day hands-on workshop at Alaqua Animal Refuge where you learn the basics of Jin Shin Jyutsu and how to use it with animals. Instructor: Adele Leas

GEORGIA

March 24-25: S.A.N.E. Workshop, Lawrence, GA
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of the S.A.N.E. method – a mix of tools including TTouch to help with canine behavior. Instructor: Kathy Cascade

April 13-18: Tellington TTouch for Horses, Lakeland, GA
Introductory and on-going practitioner TTouch training where you can take either a three-day class (April 13-15) or the entire 6-day course. Instructor: Edie Jane Eaton

ILLINOIS

March 3: Canine Massage, Melrose Park, IL
Half-day workshop at For Your K9 where you learn the basics of canine massage. Instructor: Denise Theobald of Canine Massage Chicago

March 24: Level 1 Animal Reiki, Beecher, IL
Learn the basics of Reiki and how to use it with animals. Instructor: Dawn Wrobel

March 25: Level 1 Animal Communication, Beecher, IL
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Dawn Wrobel

April 14: Level 1 Animal Communication, Barrington, IL
Learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Carol Schultz

April 27-29: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Chicago, IL
3-day workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for small and large animals. Instructor: Kim Thornton

INDIANA

April 13-15: Tellington TTouch for Horses, Indianapolis, IN
Demonstrations of the TTouch method for horses at the Hoosier Horse Fair & Expo.

IOWA

March 23-25: Tellington TTouch for Dogs, Spencer, IA
3-day event at People for Pets which includes a TTouch lecture, workshop and private sessions with Sage. Instructor: Sage Lewis of The Dancing Porcupine

MAINE

March 9: Why Is That Person In My Life? Freeport, ME
Evening workshop where you learn about soul contracts and discover why certain people and pets are in your life. Instructor: Danielle MacKinnon

MARYLAND

March 10: Reiki for Animals Level I, Baltimore, MD
Learn the basics of animal Reiki at this one-day workshop. Instructor: Kathleen Lester

March 20: What Our Animals Wants Us To Know, Columbia, MD
Introduction to animal communication at Howard Community College. Instructor: Terri Diener

April 27-29: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Baltimore, MD
3-day workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for small and large animals. Instructor: Mary Beth Genter

MASSACHUSETTS

March 4: Tellington TTouch, Lenox, MA
A one-day workshop where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs and other companion animals. Learn the basic bodywork, tools and movement exercises. Instructor: Leea Foran

April 13-14: Equine Sports Massage Certification, Concord, MA
2-day private professional equine sports massage certification clinic (open to students and graduates of a human massage or physical therapy school). Instructor: Jo-Ann Wilson of Wilson Meagher Sports Therapy

April 29: Tellington TTouch, Worcester, MA
One-day workshop at Bancroft School of Massage where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs and other companion animals. Instructor: Leea Foran

April 29: Equine Wellness Expo, Hadley, MA
One-day event featuring talks and demonstrations of equine massage, Reiki, chiropractic, Acupuncture, Flowtrition, natural hoof care, dentistry, etc.

MINNESOTA

March 23-25: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Minneapolis, MN
Learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for small and large animals at this 3-day workshop. Instructor: Mary Beth Genter

April 10-15: Introduction & Ongoing TTouch Training for Companion Animals, Bloomington, MN
6-day foundation and on-going practitioner training where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs, cats and other companion animals. Instructor: Kathy Cascade

April 21-22: Animal Communication, Minneapolis, MN
Introductory two-day animal communication class. Instructor: Ingrida Kancans-McLaughlin

NEBRASKA

April 21-22: TTouch For Dogs, Omaha, NE
Two-day workshop (and fundraiser) at the Nebraska Humane Society where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs. Instructor: Sage Lewis of The Dancing Porcupine

NORTH CAROLINA

March 24-29: Introduction to TTouch for Companion Animals, Chapel Hill, NC
6-day course where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs, cats and other companion animals. Instructor: Edie Jane Eaton

March 30 – April 1: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Raleigh, NC
Learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method at this 3-day small and large animal workshop. Instructor: Carol Komitor

OHIO

March 8-13: Equine Massage Level 1, Synergy Farm, Circleville, OH
6-day massage course where you learn equine muscle anatomy, general equine wellness, and several different massage techniques. Taught by Integrated Touch Therapy

March 16-19 & April 13-16: PetMassage Foundation Workshop, Toledo, OH
4-day foundation workshop where you learn the basics of animal massage, anatomy, physiology, ethics and marketing. Taught by PetMassage, Ltd.

April Date TBD: Camelidynamics Basics Clinic, Findlay, OH
2-day workshop at Waywood Farm Alpacas where you learn the basics of Camelidynamics (TTouch for camelids). Instructor: Marty McGee Bennett

OREGON

April 10: Animal Reiki 1, Portland, OR
1-day workshop where you learn the basics of using Reiki with animals, and receive your first attunement. Instructor: Lola Michelin of Northwest School of Animal Massage

April 15: Fundamentals of Animal Massage, Portland, OR
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal massage. Instructor: Rubi Sullivan

April 15-20: Introduction to TTouch for Companion Animals, Portland, OR
Six-day introductory and ongoing practitioner class where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs, cats and other companion animals. Instructor: Debby Potts of The Integrated Animal.

PENNSYLVANIA

March 30 – April 1: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Philadelphia, PA
3-day small and large animal workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method. Instructor: Mary Beth Genter

April 26: Camelidynamics Basics Clinic, Harrisburg, PA
Workshop at MAPACA Jubilee where you learn the basics of Camelidynamics (TTouch for camelids). Instructor: Marty McGee Bennett

RHODE ISLAND

March 2: Is Your Pet Trying To Tell You Something?, Wakefield, RI
Evening talk where you learn about animal communication. Instructor: Danielle MacKinnon

March 3: Beginner Animal Communication, Wakefield, RI
Half-day workshop where you get an introduction to, and learn the basics of, animal communication. Instructor: Danielle MacKinnon

March 3: Animal Energy Healing, Wakefield, RI
Half-day workshop where you learn how to clear negative energy, before and after it manifests itself as an illness. Instructor: Danielle MacKinnon

TEXAS

March 7: Homeopathy & Introduction to TCM, Houston, TX
Learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy – how remedies are made, how to select the appropriate ones, how to give them, etc. Instructor: Allison Culver of The Lightfoot Way

March 18: Animal Communication, Houston, TX
Learn the basics of how to telepathically communicate with animals. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

March 21: Flower Essences Houston, TX
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of flower essences and how to use them with animals. Instructor: Allison Culver of The Lightfoot Way

March 28: Introduction to Holistic Animal Care, Houston, TX
2-hour introductory workshop at Leisure Learning Unlimited where you learn about several different holistic healing modalities and how they can help your pet(s). Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

April 11: Animal Aromatherapy, Houston, TX
Evening workshop where you learn about essential oils and how to use them with animals. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

April 12-15: Shamballa Master Healer, Houston, TX
Learn about Shamballa Multidimensional Healing and how to use the technique with humans and animals. The class also covers chakras, how to work with angels, and Shamballa meditations. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

April 21: Emotional Freedom Technique, Houston, TX
Learn how to use EFT on people and on animals, with the help of a surrogate. Instructor: Allison Culver of The Lightfoot Way

April 27: Holistic Approach to First Aid, Houston, TX
Evening workshop where you learn how to put together a natural first aid kit, what to do in an emergency, and the location of emergency clinics and holistic veterinarians in the area. Instructor: Allison Culver of The Lightfoot Way

April 29: Homeopathy & Introduction to TCM, Houston, TX
Learn about Traditional Chinese Medicine and Homeopathy – different remedies, how they are are made, how to choose the appropriate ones, how to administer them, etc. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

April 29: Crystal & Color Therapy, Houston, TX
Afternoon workshop where you learn about the the healing properties of crystals, how to use them for healing, making crystal essences, etc. The workshop also covers the basics of color therapy. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

UTAH

April 4-8: Jin Shin Jyutsu, Kanab, UT
4-day hands-on workshop at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary where you learn the basics of Jin Shin Jyutsu and how to use it with animals. Instructor: Adele Leas

VERMONT

March 10: Essential Oils for Humans and Animals, Stockbridge, VT
Half-day workshop at Sable View Natural Horsemanship Development where you learn about Young Living Essential Oils and how to use them with both humans and animals. Instructor: Leslie Chadwell

March 24-25: Animal Reiki I, Stockbridge, VT
2-day workshop at Sable View Natural Horsemanship Development where you learn the history of Reiki and how to use it on both humans and animals. Instructor: Kelly McDermott-Burns of Heart Song Reiki

VIRGINIA

March 24: Essential Oils and TTouch, Charlottesville, VA
Essential oil and Tellington TTouch lecture and demonstration (for Licensed Vet Techs). Instructor: Sandy Rakowitz of One Heart Healing Center

April 20-22: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Manassas/Middleburg, VA
3-day small and large animal workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method. Instructor: Carol Komitor

WASHINGTON

March 3-4: How to Communicate with Animals, Seattle, WA
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Mary Getten

March 30 – April 1: Animal Alchemy, Carnation, WA
3-day energy healing workshop. Instructor: Joan Ranquet

April 13-15: Animal Communication, Carnation, WA
3-day beginner to advanced animal communication workshop. Instructor: Joan Ranquet

WISCONSIN

March 9-11: Introduction to Small Animal Massage, Grafton, WI
Learn the basics of small animal massage at this 3-day workshop. Instructor: W. Bruce Bregenzer of Blue Sky School of Professional Massage & Therapeutic Bodywork

March 10: Animal Wellness Seminar, Knapp, WI
One-day seminar at Honey Do Animal Rescue where you will learn about essential oils and animal massage. Instructor: Jenny Gott of Peace of Mind, Body & Soul

April 13-15: Small Animal Anatomy, Grafton, WI
Learn canine and feline anatomy, first aid, CPR and acupressure techniques for shock and trauma. Instructor: W. Bruce Bregenzer of Blue Sky School of Professional Massage & Therapeutic Bodywork

April 20-22: Introduction to Equine or Small Animal Acupressure, Hudson, WI
Learn how to perform a complete acupressure treatment protocol as well as the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine concepts and theories and how they relate to acupressure. Instructor: Kim Bauer of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute

April 23-26: Meridians & Specific Conditions 1&2, Hudson, WI
Learn about meridians and points, how imbalances can cause health issues, and which points of each meridian to work on to help with certain conditions. Instructor: Kim Bauer of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure Institute

CANADA

ALBERTA
March 23-25: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Calgary, AB
3-day workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for small and large animals. Instructor: Kim Thornton

April 21-22: Tellington TTouch for Horses, Edmonton, AB
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of TTouch for horses. Instructor: Sue Falkner-March

April 23 – May 1: Equine Body Worker Certification Course, Calgary, AB
9-day Equinology certification course. Instructor: Tina Watkins

April 27-29: Tellington TTouch Demonstrations, Red Deer, AB
Presentations and demonstrations of the Tellington TTouch method for horses at the Mane Event Horse Expo. Presenter: Robyn Hood

BRITISH COLUMBIA
March 2-4: Introduction to Tellington TTouch, Dawson Creek, BC
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of Tellington TTouch. Instructor: Mandy Pretty

April 21-22: Introduction to TTouch for Companion Animals, Vernon, BC
2-day hands-on workshop where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs. Instructor: Robyn Hood

ONTARIO
March 25 + April 14-15: Equi-Bow Level 1, Puslinch, ON
3-day horse owners’ workshop at Cedar Lane Farm where you learn the basics of Equi-Bow. Taught by Equi-Bow Canada

QUEBEC
April 28 – May 3: Introduction & Ongoing TTouch Training for Companion Animals, Rupert, QC
6-day foundation and on-going practitioner training where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs, cats and other companion animals. Instructor: Edie Jane Eaton

YUKON
April 21-23: TTouch and Connected Riding, Whitehorse, YT
3-day hands-on introductory workshop where you learn the basics of Tellington TTouch for horses as well as connected riding. Instructor: Mandy Pretty

The Northwest School Of Animal Massage

cattie — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 14:54:00 +0000

It’s been a while since we featured a school here on AMG, but today, we have an interview with Lola Michelin, founder and Director of Education of The Northwest School of Animal Massage (NWSAM), located in Vashon, WA.

The Northwest School of Animal Massage was founded in 2001 in response to the growing demand for approved training programs in canine and equine massage. In its early years, the school focused on serving the Puget Sound region and the Pacific Northwest animal community, but demand grew rapidly and each year, new satellite campuses have been added. The school now offers six levels of training in animal massage, including advanced courses in performance and rehabilitation massage. They also teach workshops in a wide range of subjects including aromatherapy, Reiki and Integrated Massage and Acupressure, and they are the exclusive provider of training in Manual Ligament Therapy for Animals. And the school donates a portion of all of its proceeds to several animal charities

NWSAM was also among the first to offer a hybrid program combining online studies with resident training. Students can complete much of their studies on their own schedule with the assistance of a distance-learning instructor before attending one of the NWSAM campuses to complete training. All instructors are professionals in the industry with active animal massage practices and classes are taught by veterinarians, physical therapists and leading animal trainers and behaviorists.

The school is licensed by the Oregon Department of Education and recognized by the Washington State Department of Health and the Washington Workforce Training and Educational Certification Board. NWSAM is a founding member of the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage (NBCAAM), and was the first animal massage program to be recognized by NCBTMB (The National Certification Board for Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork).

Meet Lola Michelin

Lola Michelin has a long background in massage, both human and animal, and she still has her own practice in addition to being the Director of Education and teaching several of the programs at NWSAM. She has provided animal massage training for zookeepers in zoological parks, and has also trained inmates at the Frasier Valley Women’s Prison and the McClaren Youth Correctional Facility through Project Pooch. Lola is a past President of the Washington Animal Massage Association, and has been featured extensively in magazines, journals, on TV and radio.

Q: Lola, how did you get into the massage field/business?
I started massaging horses when I was still in college and working at a local racetrack while completing a Pre-Veterinary program at Michigan State University. The horses evolved into working on dogs and later, people.

Q: I saw that you also have worked with exotic species – could you tell us more about that?
After college, I went to work in the education department at Busch Gardens Zoological Park in Tampa, Florida. My friendships with individuals within that industry have allowed me to continue working with exotic species and train zookeepers to perform massage as well. I have also had opportunities to work with raptors and with marine mammals. Although it is quite different from working on horses or dogs, I have yet to find an animal that did not benefit from massage work. It is very rewarding to see the changes for these amazing creatures.

Q: That’s very interesting, and I don’t know that most people would think of zoo animals getting massage. What specific species of zoo animals have you worked on?
I have worked on a diverse list of species including giraffe, rhinoceros, primates, elephants and even reptiles. Some of my favorites include a howler monkey and a coatamundi, but of course the giraffe were awesome as well.

Q: What changes have the zoo staff observed in the animals that they work on?
Many of the zoo staff I work with do a lot of enrichment and training with their animals, so massage became a great reinforcement tool. Of course, the medical staff at the zoos use the massage during surgery or recovery for sick or injured animals. And in the case of some primates, we used massage as a way to help train the animals to volunteer for routine procedures like getting weighed or getting blood drawn or taking medicine. It is far less stressful for the animals if those things don’t have to be done under restraint or sedation.

Q: It’s nice to hear that the zoo staff is so open to the animals receiving bodywork. Do you find that people’s view of animal massage has changed in the time you’ve been in the field?
Hugely. At the start of my career, there were less than a dozen people doing animal massage in North America and many people and professionals were resistant to the idea. The change just in the last 10 years has been monumental. Our classes now often include vet techs and assistants whose veterinary clinics have sent them for the training so that they can offer the service in clinic. The different varieties of animal massage now available have changed as well…traditionally massage was for sport animals or as a luxury to spoil “pampered pets”. This is still a large and valuable aspect of the animal massage world, but we are seeing tremendous growth in our Rehabilitation Massage courses and geriatric specialties or the new Manual Ligament Therapy.

Q: What about West coast vs. East coast – does the attitude towards animal massage differ?
I don’t see a difference between coasts so much as a difference between urban and rural areas. I am blessed to live in the Pacific Northwest where both Seattle and Portland are in the Top Three “Pet Loving Cities” year after year. Our students come from all over the US and for that matter, from all over the globe. Animal massage is gaining recognition from Hong Kong to Hoboken and from L.A. to to D.C. A decade ago, the vast majority of our students were from the West Coast. Today, we teach at over 15 satellite campuses including New Jersey, Utah, Canada, Hawaii and Hong Kong. I hear the same things everywhere I go…people want to find rewarding work with animals and people want the best for their pets and animals. The biggest difference is exposure…once animal massage is visible within a community, the demand for it grows steadily. My own private practice has taken me from coast to coast and even overseas and I have yet to find someplace where I could not fairly quickly build a practice. Sometimes it took more effort to educate a community about the benefits, but I never found that work was scarce once people knew what you had to offer.

Q: I did see that you teach in Hong Kong. Is animal massage a new thing there?
NWSAM has been offering animal massage classes in Hong Kong for over three years. It is a growing phenomenon there too. People in Hong Kong LOVE their pets, but living in that big a city can present a lot of challenges for pets and pet-owners alike. Several years ago, three students came from Hong Kong to take our class in British Columbia. They owned a grooming school and salon in the city and after the class, they approached NWSAM about offering animal massage at their school. The International Pet Therapy and Grooming Academy (IPTGA) became our educational partner in Asia.

Q: And you teach at animal shelters too. I have long a been a fan and supporter of Best Friends in Utah, and I saw that you now collaborate with them. How did that come about?

Student Deanna Murgatroyd after a massage session with one of the deserving dogs at the Oregon Humane Society

Yes, this was one of the most exciting developments of 2011 for NWSAM. We actually partner with over 15 shelter and rescue organizations around North America including places like Oregon Humane Society, Washington Animal Rescue League in DC, Kauai Humane Society and now, Best Friends Animal Society! When we partner with a shelter, we hold our classes at their facility and in exchange the animals receive massage and the shelter receives a portion of the proceeds from the class. We also offer one-day “FUNdamentals of Animal Massage” workshops at the shelters with all of the money going to the shelter and free attendance for staff and volunteers.

We spent a magical three weeks in Utah this summer teaching students and also mentoring a select group of potential instructors from among our graduates. The “Fundamentals of Animal Massage” workshop there was the largest we have ever held! We couldn’t believe the number of volunteers, staff and even BFAS Founders who showed up to learn massage! Needless to say, the experience was amazing and everyone at Best Friends was so happy with the attention the animals received during our stay. We will be back at BFAS several times in 2012 for classes.

The collaboration came about mostly because of the hard work of Rubi Sullivan, one of our graduates, and NWSAM’s own “I.T. Guy”, David Cota-Robles. Rubi is a graduate of all three small animal levels and runs a successful practice called HEALNW. She contacted me to see if she could arrange a private mentorship to work on some specific areas in her practice. Since both she and I have often talked about wanting to visit BFAS, I suggested we try to hold the mentorship there and work in some volunteering. All she needed was the suggestion to get the ball rolling. Little did I know that at the same time, David had just finished reading a recent edition of the BFAS magazine that we subscribe to and had contacted their education department to see if they would be interested in a collaboration. Were they ever!!!

Alfie

So far we have held a Small Animal Level 100 class, a Large Animal Level 100 class and a one-week mentorship clinic there. It truly is a remarkable organization and the facility was perfect for our classes. There were hundreds of animals to work on (dogs, cats, horses, pigs, mules, rabbits and wildlife) and our classrooms (indoor and outdoor) were breathtaking! Our mentorship group even got to work with one of the the Guardian Angel dogs, “Alfie”. Alfie is a puppy who survived the Parvo Virus AND Distemper but was left with debilitating neurological deficits. His massage and physical therapies were key to his survival and we saw some pretty amazing changes during our time with him. Thanks to the loving attentions of the BFAS staff, in particular Alfie’s own guardian angel, caregiver “Haven”, Alfie improved to the point of moving about in a specially designed cart and was adopted in September. (I have attached a photo of Alfie with our mentor group) We are looking forward to more life-changing moments like these at BFAS.

Cattie, you’ve gotta go if you haven’t been…as a supporter, you deserve to be surrounded with the magic, the energy, the animals and the people that are BFAS!

Cattie: Yes, it has always seemed like an amazing place to me. I really hope I will get a chance to visit there someday – it’s high up on my “must see” list!

Q: In addition to massage, you also teach Reiki, Acupressure and Aromatherapy, and earlier, you mentioned Manual Ligament Therapy for animals, which I had never heard of before. What is it?
Manual Ligament Therapy is an osteopathic massage technique developed by Arik Gohl for people based on the work of Dr. Hugh Logan, D.C. and Dr. Solomonov, O.D. Manual Ligament Therapy rebalances joint dynamics through gentle massage and positioning to reduce muscle tension and re-establish better proprioceptive communication between the musculoskeletal system and the nervous system. The effects are instantaneous and tremendous. I studied Manual Ligament Therapy for my human practice (yes, I occasionally still work on people, if they ask very, very nicely!). The results I got from my own back and hip issues were astounding and I immediately recognized an application for it in animals, particularly many of the show horses I was working on who had back pain or immobility. NWSAM was selected by Arik Gohl to further develop the technique specifically for animals (large and small). After time spent modifying the technique to suit quadrupeds and developing five modules for both small and large animals, NWSAM is now the exclusive training site for MLT for Animals.

Q: Now, about your school body, do you have a “typical” student? My class at Bancroft was very diverse as far as previous education and fields of work. Do you find the same at your school? What types of backgrounds do your students come from? Do you find that there is a common thread or reason why people decide to go into this business?
A large percentage of our students are looking for a new career, sometimes after years in a corporate setting or a traditional job. So we hear from a good number of people that they are looking to work with animals because of the emotional reward. About a third of our students are career-changers or first-time career-seekers, another third are already working either in the animal care industry or the human massage industry and the remainder are pet and horse-owners looking to improve their ability to care for their animals. Student age ranges from 13 (our youngest graduate) to 72, but the average age is 35-45. We are seeing a growth in the younger students, 18-25. Many of our students have been involved with animals in one capacity or another most of their life and most have some college education. We also get some veterinarians and other animal professionals, which is always a treat. The common thread in the group is of course their compassion for animals. An unfortunate thread for many of them is a growing dislike or distrust of people they work with, which is a sad commentary of our times, but a reality for many.

I feel very blessed to have spent the majority of my life surrounded by amazing animals and amazing people. I am learning that mine is a rare experience and that needs to change. Some people go into animal massage because they want to work for themselves and have flexibility in their worklife…I tell them that running a small business gives you tremendous flexibility in that you get to pick any 80 hours a week that you want to work! (Cattie: so true!) Seriously though, there are easier ways to make a living but I would be hard-pressed to name any as fulfilling or as fun.

Q: Do you know how many of your graduates go on to work in their chosen field? Do you offer support after graduation? Are there alumni meetings, online networking or something similar?
While we don’t offer placement services, we do stay in touch with our graduates. Because NWSAM is a Washington State Vocational School, we have to send reports in annually about the percentage of students working in the field compared to the number of graduates. We file similar reports with the Oregon Department of Education who we are licensed under. In 2010, 52% of our small animal massage graduates and 68% of large animal graduates were working in the field. This is comparable or better than the percentages of human massage practitioners who go on to practice. In many cases, our graduates are also pursuing an advanced level of our training and therefore don’t show up in the statistics. I think this is fairly representative or a little higher than the national average. Also, many people are already working as groomers or farriers etc. and using massage within an already existing practice. Many people chose to provide animal massage part-time while working in another chosen field simultaneously.

We do provide an alumni online group and social networking for both students and graduates as well as prospective students. We also offer continuing education workshops so that graduates can continue to perfect their skills and expand their services. Over the last decade, 72% of our students returned to take more training with NWSAM. I am pretty proud of that fact and I think it speaks to the fact that today’s consumer is more knowledgeable about massage and asking for specific things like Manual Lymphatic Drainage or Myofascial Release. It isn’t enough to just know Swedish Massage anymore or to perform a choreographed routine on every animal. Savvy animal owners are great for our industry and we work with graduates to help educate their community.

Also, some of our graduates come back to assist in classes or become NWSAM staff. We are quick to brag about some of the amazing things our graduates are doing whether it is working with the U.S. Olympic Endurance team horses, volunteering to rescue animals during disasters such as Katrina or winning the Top Dog Holistic Provider in Portland, OR by a landslide! We have soldiers who completed our training while serving in Iraq and courageous students such as Sam Banry who graduated from our small animal massage program and is working alongside a veterinarian despite being paraplegic and confined to a wheelchair.

Q: I get emails all the time from people who are thinking about becoming professional animal massage therapists, and one question that keeps coming up again and again is “how do I choose a school?” Do you have any advice to share?
Well, I think it is wise to compare as many schools as you can based on their curriculum, their history in the industry and their dedication to promoting a professional standard of practice. Their programs should be a minimum of 100 hours, 200 is even better. Our curriculum is divided into three levels of training for a total of 450 hours. NBCAAM (the National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage) provides a standard of practice and code of ethics for the industry and any school worth attending will uphold similar standards, even if they are not recognized or a participating member of the organization. As legislative regulation of animal massage becomes more widespread, having the training you need to get national certification will increase in importance, NBCAAM requires 200 hours of study to sit for their certification exams, so that might be a good starting point.

I would strongly encourage anyone considering a school to make sure that they have a science-based curriculum (anatomy, physiology, kinesiology…). While most do, there are those that still don’t teach basic musculoskeletal anatomy. Which is not to say that you cannot provide good massage without that knowledge, but in this fast-changing industry, it is harder to compete with those that have solid scientific as well as modality-specific training. If a pet-owner is looking for basic skills and not planning to provide services professionally, a course that is less science-based is fine. But more and more, animal massage practitioners are called upon to work on animals with a history of illness or injury or breed-specific conditions. We have to assess the animal and make a decision about its need for proper veterinary intervention. Animal massage practitioners cannot diagnose conditions or provide treatments or prognosis pertaining to a specific condition. If you don’t have the knowledge needed to make that assessment, you could run the risk of overstepping your boundaries unwittingly.

Second, you should compare history. History tells you a lot about a program…have they been around long enough to have weathered some changes in our industry? If so, they are more likely to be aware of changing needs that could affect your success in school and beyond. What about their instructors…how long have they been practicing and teaching? How many instructors are present in class and what is the normal class-size? Don’t be fooled by a long list of “accreditations” behind a school’s name. While it is great if a school is recognized by others within the industry (such as NBCAAM or IAAMB), many affiliations only require filling out an application and writing a check but don’t provide any true measure of quality.

NWSAM instructor Joan Sorita demonstrating massage on “Bird”

I also encourage prospective students who inquire about our programs to talk to our graduates and students about their experience. We are happy to connect them with someone in their area or they can solicit information directly from others via our social networks. Lastly, I would look at their ability to meet your needs…if it is flexibility you need you may favor a school that has blended learning programs (distance-learning combined with resident training). If finances are an issue, talk to the school about potential scholarships or funding opportunities…don’t just pick a school based on price because you often do get what you pay for.

After you have gathered as much information on as many different programs as you feel you need, make a list of pros and cons and then do a gut check…usually you got a particularly good feeling about one or more schools or had some concerns in the back of your mind about others. Your instinct is generally right! One other thing…most of the top schools do work closely and have good relationships. If you are upfront about your needs and they don’t have what you need, the good administrators will direct you to the school that might be a better fit for you, so don’t be afraid to ask for a recommendation. At NWSAM, I have often helped a prospective student contact another educator that I think will be a better fit or even suggested a different modality based on their goals such as acupressure or a veterinary technician program for example.

Q: With your ever expanding network of teaching facilities, do you have any future plans to teach in Nova Scotia? I have received several emails from people who are looking for classes there.
We currently offer classes in British Columbia and we have been asked to teach a class in summer in Alberta, which we are strongly considering. Nothing in Nova Scotia at this time. However, one of the big advantages of an NWSAM education is that much of the training is done online with the help of a distance-learning instructor. The resident training is completed after the distance-learning portion is completed and students can travel to any of our campuses to attend the 5-day hands-on practical. They could complete much of their training in Nova Scotia and then travel to either location in Canada or any of our other sites to complete.

Q: And there are new exciting learning opportunities happening all the time: I saw that you are teaming up with Tallgrass so that people can get “combo training”. Great idea! How does that work?
Yes, we are offering students interested in taking both programs the opportunity to attend an intensive acupressure course with Tallgrass if they have completed our Level 100 animal massage course. Tallgrass is able to provide their complete program to our students because much of the anatomy and some other materials are common to the two programs, so grads won’t have to study the same material twice and will instead be able to focus on the hands-on experience. This year, NWSAM grads will be able to attend a September intensive with Tallgrass. We will be doing something similar later so that graduates of the Tallgrass program will be able to take an intensive animal massage course (represents less time and money for the same training) in either late 2012 or early 2013. We are very excited to be working with Tallgrass on this. We have collaborated with Tallgrass Animal Acupressure on many occasions to offer their intro courses at NWSAM and in teaching our unique Integrated Massage and Acupressure series. It is a great way for students to get the most out of two of the best schools in the industry.

Lola, thank you so much for taking the time to answer all these questions. I think this will be a great help for both pet owners and people looking to get into the field of animal massage. To find out more about the school and the different programs and courses they offer, go to the NWSAM website (I also list their introductory courses on the bi-monthly Events & Workshops lists here on AMG).

What is Reiki?

Holistic Animal Health Events & Workshops – USA, Canada & UK – August & September 2011

cattie — Wed, 13 Jul 2011 18:03:41 +0000

Summer is here and it’s finally feeling like it in Massachusetts. After a cold and rainy June, we’re now enjoying sunshine and 90+ temperatures (at least I’m enjoying it – I’ll take that any day over snow!). There are plenty of classes and workshops in August and September, although noticeably fewer than earlier in the summer as (I’m guessing) we all take some well deserved time off.

August 7-13 – International Assistance Dog Week
August 20 – International Homeless Animals Day

September is AKC Responsible Dog Ownership Month
September 18-24 – National Farm Animals Awareness Week
September 28 – World Rabies Day
Last full week of September – Deaf Dog Awareness Week

As always, if you know of an event that belongs on this list, please contact me and I will add it.

CALIFORNIA

August 7, 21 & 28 Shoden Animal Reiki Level I, Ben Lomond & Santa Cruz, CA
Learn the basics of Reiki for animals as this three-day class. Instructor: Joyce Leonard

August 13-14: Animal Communication Workshop, Agoura, CA
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Carol Gurney

August 15-20: TTouch for Dogs, Cats and Other Companion Animals, Oakland, CA
Introductory 6-day workshop both for those interested in TTouch as a career and those who just want to learn for their own personal knowledge. Instructor: Debby Potts

September 9-11: Introduction to Equine or Small Animal Acupressure – Penn Valley, CA
Learn the basics of the Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) concepts and theories and how to perform a complete acupressure treatment protocol. Instructor: Kim Bauer from Tallgrass Animal Acupressure

September 12-15: Meridians & Specific Conditions 1&2, Penn Valley, CA
Learn about meridians, points, how imbalances cause health issues, and which points to work for certain conditions. Instructors: Kim Bauer of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure

September 17-18: Reiki I & Animal Reiki Training: The Basics, Santa Rosa, CA
Learn the basics of Reiki and how to use it on both humans and animals in this 2-day workshop at BrightHaven, a holistic care facility for senior and special needs animals. Instructor: Kathleen Prasad of Animal Reiki Source

September 17-18: Foundation Course in Canine Communication, Solvang, CA
Learn the Amichien® Bonding method and the basics of animal communication at this 2-day workshop at Flag Is Up Farms. Instructor: Jan Fennell

COLORADO

August 3-4: Animal Communication, Little Rock, CO
2-day workshop at RMSAAM where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Anna Twinney of Reach Out To Horses

August 5-8 & September 6-9: Canine Massage Level 1, Castle Rock, CO
4-day certificate massage class (with required pre and post course work). Instructors: Shelley Sheets and Isadora Mielikki of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage

August 6-7: TTEAM/TTouch for Horses, Loveland, CO
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of TTouch for horses. Instructor: Raian Kaiser

August 9-13 & September 13-17: Equine Massage Level 1, Littleton, CO
5-day certificate massage class (with required pre and post course work). Instructor: Isadora Mielikki of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage

August 13 & September 10: Intro to Working with Animals and Essential Oils, Kaeru Studio, Littleton, CO
1-day workshop where you learn the basics of essential oils and how to use them on animals. Also includes an intro to applied kinesiology. Instructor: Frances Cleveland

August 15-21 & September 11-17: Animal Acupressure Level 1, Longmont, CO
Week-long certificate large and small animal acupressure course (with required pre and post course work). Instructor: Beth Pelosa of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage

September 21: Creating a Ceremony for Animals, Kaeru Studio, Littleton, CO
Learn how to use essential oils and plants with your animals. Instructor: Frances Cleveland

September 23-25: Equine Touch Level 1 & 2, Loveland, CO
Learn the basics of equine touch at this three-day workshop. Instructor: Raian Kaiser

September 23-25: Animal Communication, Littleton, CO
Beginning and advanced animal communication workshop at Kaeru Studio. Instructor: Joan Ranquet

CONNECTICUT

August 15-26: Reach Out To Horses I, East Haddam, CT
2-week holistic horsemanship certification course held at Ray of Light Farm. Instructor: Anna Twinney of Reach Out To Horses

August 27-28: Animal Communication Weekend, East Haddam, CT
Learn animal communication at this fundraising workshop at Ray of Light Farm. Instructor: Anna Twinney of Reach Out To Horses

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

September 25: Fundamentals of Animal Massage, Washington, DC
1-day workshop at the Washington Animal Rescue League where you learn the basics of animal massage and stretching. Instructor: Lola Michelin of NWSAM

FLORIDA

September 6-9: Canine Massage Level 1, Ft. Myers, FL
4-day canine massage certificate class (pre and post course work required). Instructor: Kelly Legarreta of Rocky Mountain School of Animal Acupressure and Massage

September 23-25: Aromatherapy For Animals, Orlando, FL
Learn about TCM’s five elements, animal behavior and essential oils, and how to use them with your pets. Instructor: Nayana Morag

September 30 – October 2: Animal PsychAromatica Level 1, Orlando, FL
Learn how to use essential oils with dogs, cats, horses, and other companion animals. Instructor: Nayana Morag

HAWAII

August 5-7: Tellington TTouch for Horses, Waimea, HI
Three-day equine TTouch workshop at Anna Ranch Heritage Center. Instructor: Linda Tellington-Jones

ILLINOIS

August 13-14: Communicating with All Life Retreat, Chicago, IL
2-day weekend retreat at the Infinity Foundation where you learn how to communicate with all species. Instructor: Penelope Smith

August 27: Level 1 Animal Reiki, Beecher, IL
Learn the basics of Reiki and how to use it on animals at this 1-day workshop. Instructor: Dawn Wrobel

August 28: Level 1 Animal Communication, Beecher, IL
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Dawn Wrobel

September 16-18: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Chicago, IL
3-day workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for horses and dogs. Instructor: Kim Thornton

IOWA

August 20-21: Tellington TTouch for Dogs, Des Moines, IA
Learn the basics of TTouch for dogs at this 2-day workshop. Instructor: Sage Lewis of The Dancing Porcupine

September 30 – October 2: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Des Moines, IA
Learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for horses and dogs. Instructor: Sharon Scandrett-Hibdon

KANSAS

August 27-28: Equine Myofascial Release 1, Quinter, KS
2-day seminar where you learn the basics of equine myofascial release. Instructor: Cathy Cowell of Motion For Life

MASSACHUSETTS

August 6: Animal Communication I, Andover, MA
1-day workshop at Circles of Wisdom where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Bruce Butcher

August 7: Reiki for Animals Andover, MA
Hands-on workshop at Circles of Wisdom where you learn the basics of animal reiki. Instructor: Bruce Butcher

September 30 – October 2: Introduction to Small Animal Acupressure – Worcester, MA
Learn the basics Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and how to perform an acupressure treatment at this 3-day workshop at the Bancroft School of Massage. Instructor: Kathi Soukup of Tallgrass Animal Acupressure.

MICHIGAN

August 10-18: Equine Body Worker Certification Course, East Lansing, MI
9-day Equinology certification course at Michigan State University. Taught by Equinology

MINNESOTA

August 28: Animal Communication I, St. Paul, MN
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Lena Swanson

September 14: Using Essential Oils with Animals, Ham Lake, MN
Learn the basics of how to use essential oils with dogs, cats and horses. Instructor: Jenny Gott

NEW MEXICO

August 13: TTouch For Rescued And Adopted Dogs, Santa Fe, NM
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of Tellington TTouch method specifically to help with behavioral issues in adopted and rescued dogs. Instructor: Jessica O’Donoghue

NEW YORK

August 27 – September 1: Introduction & Ongoing TTouch Training for Companion Animals, Altamont, NY
6-day foundation and on-going course where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs, cats and other companion animals. Instructor: Lucie Leclerc

September 9-11: How To Communicate With Animals, Rhinebeck, NY
3-day workshop at the Omega Institute where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Penelope Smith

NORTH CAROLINA

August 26-30: Equine Myofascial Release Level I, Asheville, NC
Learn the basics of equine myofasical release at this 5-day course at the Biltmore Estate. Instructor: Ruth Mitchell-Golladay

OHIO

August 1-4: Canine Massage Level 1, Synergy Farm, Circleville, OH
4-day canine massage workshop where you learn the basics of canine anatomy, massage techniques, and general canine wellness. Taught by Integrated Touch Therapy

August 20-21: Animal Communication, Synergy Farm, Circleville, OH
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Maggie Bunce

September 23-26: PetMassage Foundation Workshop, Toledo, OH
4-day foundation workshop where you learn the basics of animal massage, anatomy, physiology, ethics, and marketing. Taught by PetMassage, Ltd.

OREGON

August 20: TTouch for Older Dogs, Portland, OR
Learn the basics of TTouch specifically to help with issues faced by older dogs. Instructor: Lauren McCall of The Integrated Animal

September 24-25: Animal Communication, Newberg, OR
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Lauren McCall of The Integrated Animal

PENNSYLVANIA

August 12-14: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Philadelphia, PA
3-day workshop where you learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method with horses and dogs. Instructor: Mary Beth Genter

TEXAS

August 14 & September 25: Basic Animal Communication, Houston, TX
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

August 21: Emotional Freedom Technique, Houston, TX
Learn how to use EFT on people, animals and with a surrogate. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

September 17: Homeopathy & Introduction to TCM, Houston, TX
Learn the basics of Traditional Chinese Medicine, how homeopathy works, how the remedies are created, and how to use them. Instructor: Allison Culver of The Lightfoot Way

September 17: Crystal & Color Therapy, Houston, TX
½-day workshop where you learn the history and benefits of crystals, using them on animals and how to make crystal essences. You will also learn about the healing properties of colors and how to use them with animals. Instructor: Allison Culver of The Lightfoot Way

September 24: Reiki I For Animals, Houston, TX
Learn the basics of Reiki for use on animals. Instructor: Allison Culver of The Lightfoot Way. NOTE: You must take Reiki I for People before attending this class. The next one is scheduled for September 11.

September 28: Holistic Animal Care, Houston, TX
2-hour workshop where you learn how different alternative therapies can help both you and your animals. Taught by The Lightfoot Way

August 28: Nutrition and Kinesiology, Houston, TX
Learn about proper nutrition for dogs, cats and horses, and the basics of how to use kinesiology with both animals and humans in order to determine proper nutrition and discover allergies. Instructor: Kim Shotola of The Lightfoot Way

UTAH

September 30 – October 2: Jin Shin Jyutsu for You and Your Animal Companions, Kanab, UT
Learn the basics of how to perform Jin Shin Jyutsu on yourself and your pet(s) at this 3-day workshop at Best Friends Animal Sanctuary. Instructor: Adele Leas

WASHINGTON

August 7: Basic Animal Massage, Seattle, WA
1-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal massage. Instructor: Vicki Draper of Vi Miere

August 21: Fundamentals of Animal Massage, Redmond, WA
Learn the basics of animal massage and stretching at this one-day workshop. Instructor: Lola Michelin of NWSAM

August 27-28: How To Communicate With Animals, Seattle, WA
2-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Mary Getten

September 9-11: Healing Touch for Animals Level 1, Olympia, WA
Learn the basics of The Komitor Healing Method for horses and dogs at this 3-day workshop. Instructor: Kim Thornton

September 10-11: Equine MLT Foundation Course, Redmond, WA
Learn the basics of Manual Ligament Therapy™ and how to use it on horses. Instructor: Lola Michelin of NWSAM

September 17: Reiki I, Issaquah, WA
One-day Reiki level 1 workshop where you learn the history and basics of Reiki and receive your first attunement. Instructor: Polly Klein of Tonglen Healing Arts for Animals

WISCONSIN

August 6-8: Equine Myofascial Release I, Fort Atkinson, WI
Learn the basics of Equine Myofascial Release at this 3-day hands-on workshop. Instructor: Tamara Rapier

September 9-11: TTouch for Horses & Centered Riding, Elkhart Lake, WI
Learn how to use TTouch (TTEAM) and centered riding to improve both your own and your horse’s performance. Instructor: Carol O’ Donnell Wilson

September 9-11: Animal PsychAromatica Level 1, Open Heart Ranch, WI
Learn the 5 element theory and how to use essential oils with dogs, cats, horses, and other companion animals. Instructor: Nayana Morag

September 30 – October 2: Introduction to Small Animal Massage, Grafton, WI
Learn the basics of small animal massage at this 3-day workshop. Instructor: W. Bruce Bregenzer of Blue Sky School of Professional Massage & Therapeutic Bodywork

CANADA

ALBERTA
August 13-18: Introduction & Ongoing TTouch Training for Companion Animals, Calgary, AB
6-day foundation and on-going course where you learn the basics of TTouch for dogs, cats and other companion animals. Instructor: TBA

August 20-21: TTouch for Companion Animals, Calgary, AB
2-day class where you learn the basics of Tellington TTouch for small animals. Instructor: Kathy Cascade

BRITISH COLUMBIA
August 6-11: Connected Riding and TTouch, Vernon, BC
6-day workshop where you learn the basics of Connected Riding and Tellington TTouch for horses. Instructors: Robyn Hood and Mandy Pretty

August 13-14: Pawspoint Reflexology & EFT, Port Coquitlam, BC
Learn the basics of EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique) and reflexology for animals at this 2-day workshop. Instructor: Yvette Eastman of Touchpoint Reflexology

September 17-18: Connected Riding and TTouch, Lakeview Heights, BC
Learn the basics of Connected Riding and Tellington TTouch for horses. Instructor: Mandy Pretty

ONTARIO
August 20-24: TTouch for Companion Animals, Clinton, ON
Introductory and on-going practitioner TTouch training where you can take either a two-day weekend workshop (August 20-21) or the entire 5-day course. Instructor: Lucie Leclerc

QUEBEC
August 13: Beginning Animal Communication, Piedmont, QC
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal communication. Instructor: Marta Williams

August 13-14: Animal Communication, Lascelles, QC
Learn the basics of animal communication at this 2-day workshop. Instructor: Lauren McCall of The Integrated Animal

August 14: Medical Intuition and Energy Healing, Piedmont, QC
Learn how to scan the body and chakras of animals to find imbalances and deficiencies that you then treat with the help of energy healing. Instructor: Marta Williams

BRITISH ISLES

ENGLAND

Cambridgeshire
August 13 & September 10: Stretching and Mobilisation, Wittering
One-day workshop where you learn the basics of equine stretching and mobilisation. Instructor: Emma Overend

August 17-19 & September 14-16: Equine Touch Level 1, Wittering
Learn the basics of equine touch at this three-day workshop. Instructor: Emma Overend

Devon
September 3-4: Camelidynamics, Watertown, Chittlehamholt, Umberleigh
Two-day workshop at Watertown Llamas where you learn basic camelidynamics, llama husbandry and handling. Instructor: Julie Taylor-Browne of Carthvean Camelids

Essex
August 18-20: Equine Touch Level 1, Roxwell
Learn the basics of equine touch at this 3-day workshop. Instructor: Kate Prowse

August 28: Aninmal Reiki Level 1, Ingatestone
One-day workshop at Remus Horse Sanctuary where you learn the basics of animal Reiki. Instructor: Caroline Thomas of Animal Magic

September 11: Natural First Aid for People & Animals, Ingatestone
Workshop at Remus Horse Sanctuary where you learn how to use herbs, gels, clays and essential oils for issues like colds, flu, scrapes, cuts, headaches, etc. Instructor: Dena Schwartz

September 24: Aninmal Healing With Vibrational Essences, Ingatestone
Learn about vibrational medicine, animal auras and chakras and how to use Incite cards at this workshop at Remus Horse Sanctuary. Instructor: Caroline Thomas of Animal Magic

Herefordshire
September 23-25: Equine Touch Level 1, Ledbury
3-day basic Equine Touch workshop. Instructor: Emma Knowles

Norfolk
August 7: Animal Magic Foundation Class, Norwich
Learn the basics of Animal Magic (chakras, crystals, dowsing, hand positions, communication, and more). Instructor: Niki Senior

Oxfordshire
August 4 & September 1: Equine Merishia Massage, Chinnor
Hands-on one-day practical (pre course work required). Instructor: Jo Rose of Rose Holistic Therapies

August 5 & September 2: Canine Merishia Massage, Chinnor
Hands-on one-day practical (pre course work required). Instructor: Jo Rose of Rose Holistic Therapies

August 13: Equine Communication, Chinnor
One-day workshop where you learn how to communicate with horses through body language. Instructor: Jo Rose of Rose Holistic Therapies

August 26-27 & September 8-9 & 20-21: Animal Reiki 1, Chinnor
Two-day workshop where you learn the basics of animal Reiki. Instructor: Jo Rose of Rose Holistic Therapies

September 3-4: Energy Healing, Chinnor
Learn about meridian energy work, chakras, DNA and cellular memory, geopathic stress, multi-dimensional healing and advanced energy removal in this hands-on (humans and animals) workshop. Instructors: Julia Fairfax and Terry Shubrook

September 10: Equine Muscles, Movement and Stretching, Chinnor
Learn about the major muscles by painting them on live horses. Also includes passive stretching techniques. Instructor: Jo Rose of Rose Holistic Therapies

September 24: An Introduction to Applied Zoopharmacognosy, Chinnor
1-day workshop where you learn about Zoopharmacognosy (how animals select plants and plants extracts as medicine) and how you can assist your non-foraging animals in doing so by offering them essential oils and plants to choose from. Instructors: Sophie Xi-Zeta and Jo Rose of Rose Holistic Therapies

West Yorkshire
September 14: EFT for Animals, Ilkley
Learn how to use EFT on animals with the help of surrogate tapping. Instructors: Gwyneth Moss and Heather Smiles

West Sussex
September 24: Introduction to Canine Massage, Horsham
Learn the basics of canine massage at this one-day workshop. Instructor: Julia Robertson of Galen Therapy Centre

Worcestershire
September 24: K9 Massage for the Agility & Sporting Dog, Bromsgrove
1-day workshop where you learn the basics of canine massage. Instructor: Natalie Lenton

September 25: A Beginners Guide To Canine Massage, Bromsgrove
Learn the basics of canine massage specifically for working dogs at this one-day workshop. Instructor: Natalie Lenton

SCOTLAND
September 3: Equine Zoopharmacognosy, Ross Dhu, Quarter, Larkhall
Learn how to read the response of equines to dried herbs, macerates, essential oils and minerals, and the horse’s preferred way of taking them (inhalation, orally or topically). Instructor: Angela Jeen

WALES
August 26-28: Equine Shiatsu, Lampeter, Ceredigion
Three-day introductory workshop where you learn the basics of equine shiatsu. Instructor: Ann-Marie Marek of Brynglas Equine