In the early nineteenth century, Per Henrik Ling from Sweden, was responsible for developing the soft tissue techniques and names of movements that are considered the foundation of all massage modalities, such as effleurage, petrissage, friction, tapotement and vibration. 

It was soon realised that massage could heal injuries, relieve pain, reduce stress and enable a deep relaxation.

 Today, massage therapy is a highly respected form of holistic healing and practiced across the world.  Not only has it developed in the human world, it has also been realised as a valuable profession within the animal world. 

 Various massage and stretching techniques can be applied, enabling the animal to not only perform to their full potential, but for those who may be having a quieter life, it can keep them supple, comfortable and using themselves correctly in their golden years. 

Should have love and empathy for animals and a desire to alleviate their physical pain. 

Be knowledgeable in the anatomy of a particular animal before providing massage therapy to that animal. 

Animal first aid training .

Equissage graduated its first equine therapists in 1992, and its first canine graduates in 2000. 

Equissage’s canine massage therapy (CMT) certificate is achieved via an at-home course of study, an exam, and an evaluation of the student’s massage techniques as demonstrated on a DVD recording. 

The Small Animal Massage Practitioner (SAMP) Certificate of Achievement and the Large Animal Massage Practitioner (LAMP) Certificate of Achievement.