Got Questions? We've Got Answers.

Equine bodywork is a broader discipline that encompasses structural assessment, movement analysis, and hands-on therapy to address tension, compensation patterns, and performance limitations. While massage focuses primarily on muscle tissue, bodywork looks at the whole horse — how they move, how they hold tension, and how their structure affects their comfort and performance. At AEP, every session begins with a full structural assessment before any hands-on work begins. Sessions draw from a range of evidence-informed modalities including equine massage therapy, soft tissue therapy, myofascial release, muscle testing, cranial-sacral therapy, deep-tissue work, acupressure, and targeted stretching.

Common signs include resistance under saddle, uneven movement or gait irregularities, behavioural changes, sensitivity to grooming or tacking up, difficulty bending one direction, poor topline development, or a general change in attitude. That said, bodywork isn't only for horses with problems — regular maintenance sessions support performance, prevent injury, and help you catch issues early. A horse that's "just being difficult" is often a horse that's uncomfortable. If you're not sure, a free 15-minute discovery call is always the right first step.

All of them. AEP works with horses across the full lifespan — from foals and young horses in rehabilitation and developmental contexts through to horses well into their thirties. Each stage of life presents different priorities:

• Foals and young horses — early bodywork supports healthy musculoskeletal development, establishes positive handling associations, and identifies asymmetries before they become ingrained compensatory patterns.
• Performance and sport horses — maintenance, recovery, and peak function. Addressing the cumulative load of training before it becomes injury.
• Rehabilitation — structured support alongside veterinary care for horses recovering from injury, surgery, or extended rest.
• Geriatric horses — maintaining mobility, managing chronic discomfort, and supporting quality of life.

It depends on the horse's workload, age, and goals. Performance horses in regular work typically benefit from monthly sessions. Horses in lighter work or maintenance programs often do well every 6-8 weeks. Horses in active rehabilitation may need more frequent sessions initially. We'll give you a clear recommendation after your first session based on what we find.

Every session begins with a structural and movement assessment — we observe posture, weight distribution, muscle symmetry, and how your horse moves through space before any hands-on work begins. The hands-on portion addresses what we find, working through the body systematically. Sessions typically run 60-90 minutes. Afterward you'll receive a comprehensive digital report outlining findings and care recommendations. Where appropriate, a customised exercise program will be built through EQ-Active — a dedicated platform for progressive, structured movement work between sessions, covering ridden work, in-hand exercises, and rider exercises. Visit Your AEP Experience for the full picture of what to expect from first inquiry through to ongoing care.

Yes. Rider balance assessments are offered alongside equine sessions because what we see in the horse often traces back to the person in the saddle. Where appropriate, we also refer riders to chiropractors, physiotherapists, and other human health practitioners. The best outcomes happen when we look at the whole picture — horse and rider together.

Yes — and sensitivity is often a sign that bodywork is exactly what they need. We work at the horse's pace, using pressure and approach that respects their comfort level. Sensitivity can indicate areas of tension, pain, or past negative experience, all of which bodywork can help address over time. We never force a response and always let the horse guide the session.

Always. AEP works collaboratively with veterinarians, farriers, saddle fitters, nutritionists, and other equine specialists. When another modality or practitioner would serve your horse better on a given case, we'll tell you and connect you with the right person. Our network is yours. If vet sign-off is required before treatment, we'll coordinate that directly.

A vet referral is not required to book a bodywork session. However, if your horse has a known injury, recent surgery, or an active lameness investigation, we recommend looping in your vet so we can work collaboratively. Veterinary sign-off may be required before treatment in some cases. We are happy to communicate with your veterinary team and work within any restrictions they recommend.

AEP combines structural analysis, behavioural science, and classical horsemanship into a single assessment-led methodology. We don't just work on what you point to — we look at the whole horse and address root causes, not just symptoms. Every session includes a comprehensive digital report so you have a record of findings over time. We use EQ-Active for between-session progressive loading and conditioning programs, and Equi-Pro Connect for your secure client portal — giving you access to session reports, appointment management, and your horse's full care history in one place. This level of documentation and continuity is rare in the industry.

Our courses are designed for anyone who spends time around horses — owners, riders, barn managers, grooms, coaches, veterinary technicians, and equine professionals of all kinds. No prior medical training is required. If you care for horses, this knowledge is for you.

We offer a full range of Equi-Health Canada certified courses:

• Equine Health and Emergency First Aid — Full Day | $169
• Advanced Equine Emergency First Aid — Full Day | $169
• Advanced Wilderness Equine First Aid — Full Day | $169
• Disaster Planning and Emergency Preparedness — Full Day | $169
• Equine First Aid Fundamentals — Half Day | $99
• Backcountry First Aid Condensed — Half Day | $59
• Kids "I Can Help!" — 3 Hours | $59
• Essentials in Emergency Preparedness — 2 Hours | $49

Visit our First Response Training page for full course descriptions.

Participants receive a Certificate of Completion, a First Aid Manual, and a Vitals Reference Card to keep at the barn. Courses are recognized for Continuing Education credits through Equestrian Canada, Provincial Associations of Veterinary Technicians, IAABC, EAGALA, and the High School Green and Agriculture Certificate Program. Some courses may also qualify for equine-related insurance discounts.

Basic familiarity with horses is helpful for the hands-on portions of the course, but you do not need to be an experienced horse person to attend. Courses are designed to be accessible to a wide range of participants. If you have specific concerns about your experience level, reach out before booking and we'll make sure you're set up for success.

Absolutely — hosting a course is one of the best things you can do for your equestrian community. We come to you. The essentials are access to washrooms (a must for full-day courses) and horses for the hands-on portion. A power source for the presentation, shelter from the elements, and seating or tables are all helpful but not dealbreakers — we're flexible and experienced working in all kinds of setups. A deposit is required to reserve your date, which is fully refunded day of — or gift it as a complimentary spot for someone in your community. Hosts with 12 or more students receive two complimentary spots (EHC courses only). Visit our Host a Workshop page to learn more or inquire.

Barns that host all three qualifying courses — Equine Health and Emergency First Aid (Level 1), Advanced Equine Emergency First Aid (Level 2), and Disaster Planning and Emergency Preparedness — earn official Safe Facility recognition. This includes a certificate and a free listing on the Equi-Health Canada website. It's one of the most meaningful things a barn can do for its community.

Yes — barn talks and first aid demos are a shorter, lower-commitment option, typically 60-90 minutes. They're a great fit for barn nights, club meetings, Pony Club or 4-H events, and open houses. Speaking engagements for larger events and conferences are also welcome. Use the inquiry form on our Host a Workshop page to get in touch.

AEP is based in the North Okanagan, British Columbia. Travel is calculated by zone:

• Zone 1: Within 20km — no charge
• Zone 2: Vernon / Coldstream — $30
• Zone 3: Armstrong / Enderby — $45
• Zone 4: Kelowna / Salmon Arm — $85
• Beyond Zone 4: $0.75 per km

Travel charges may be shared among clients at the same barn and are waived after 4 horses at one location. Full details are in our Policies & Consent page.

The easiest first step is a free 15-minute discovery call — we'll talk about your horse, what you're looking for, and find the right fit. You can also browse and book directly through our services page. Once booked, you'll be set up in your secure Equi-Pro Connect client portal where you can manage appointments, access session reports, and update your horse's profile. Visit Your AEP Experience for the full 6-step onboarding journey.

We accept cash, cheque, credit card, debit, and e-transfer. Payment is due in full at the time of service. Deposits paid to reserve an appointment are deducted from your final balance. AEP gift cards are also accepted and can be purchased through our services page.

Have your horse clean, dry, and ready 10 minutes before your scheduled start time. A quiet, low-traffic area of the barn makes for a more relaxed session — avoid the main aisle during feed time where possible. A short hand walk or light turnout beforehand is helpful. Avoid heavy work or bathing immediately before the session. Have your horse's recent health history handy if there are any known issues we should be aware of.

Dress for the weather and for being outside and hands-on with horses — closed-toe footwear is required. We'll be outside and moving for most of the day so come prepared for the elements. We bring all course materials, manuals, and equipment. For full-day courses, catered lunch can be arranged at the host's discretion — ask about this when you inquire.

We ask for 24 hours notice for single appointments and 48 hours for multiple services. The following fees apply:

• Cancellation fee: $50
• No-show fee: $90 plus calculated mileage
• Rescheduling within 24 hours: $20 (refunded at your next appointment)
• Late arrivals beyond 15 minutes are treated as a cancellation

We understand that life happens — fees may be waived at our discretion in genuine emergencies. Full details are in our Policies & Consent page.

Yes — we offer session bundles and course packages. Visit our services page to see current offerings. If you have a specific need or are looking for something custom, reach out and we'll put something together.

The Leg-Up Initiative is AEP's youth sponsorship program supporting talented young equestrians (25 and under) who have the work ethic and drive to go far in the sport but face financial barriers to getting there. Support may include assistance with lessons, show fees, equipment, and other participation costs — tailored to the individual needs of each recipient. Sponsored youth also receive discounts on AEP bodywork services. 10% of every AEP transaction goes directly to the fund — so every session, course, and gift card purchase contributes. The program is professionally nominated — coaches, trainers, instructors, and barn managers submit nominations for young riders they believe in. The program is currently in its founding phase and not yet accepting nominations, but will be launching its first cohort soon. Learn more about the Leg-Up Initiative →

These are two distinct programs. The Leg-Up Initiative is a financial support program for youth riders under 25 — it's about removing barriers to participation in the sport. The AEP Rider Sponsorship has no age limit and is built for competitive equestrians across all disciplines who embody the AEP standard and want to grow alongside us. Sponsored riders receive AEP branded gear — sunshirts, saddle pads, and seasonal merch — earn $20 for every client they refer who completes a session or course, and are featured in an interview on The Sequestrian. In return, sponsored riders represent AEP with professionalism and integrity and share their genuine experience with their network. This is not about follower counts — it's about character, community, and the right fit. Learn more and express your interest →

Refer & Earn rewards you for sharing AEP with your network. When someone you refer completes their first paid session or course, you earn $20 — your choice of cash back, an AEP gift card, or store credit toward your next booking. There's no limit to how many people you can refer. Simply ask your referral to mention your name when they book and we'll take it from there. Equine professionals who refer clients are recognized with seasonal AEP merch and the opportunity to be featured on The Sequestrian. Full details on the Refer & Earn page →

The Sequestrian is Tally's independent publication — isolating the truth from the noise of the equine industry and sharing the kind of content that actually makes you a better horse person. New issues drop weekly. If you want an unfiltered perspective from someone who has spent their life in this sport and isn't afraid to say what needs to be said, this is for you. Read The Sequestrian →

Follow us on social media, subscribe to The Sequestrian for weekly industry content, or book a free discovery call to get on our radar. If the AEP mission resonates with you, we'd love to have you along for the ride.