Northwest School of Animal Massage

Great question! Requirements vary from state to state so it is important to check with your state government before starting your training. The majority of states are nonregulated but may recommend veterinary referral or supervision unless providing massage strictly for the purpose of relaxation. Currently, the only state with a license specific to animal massage is Washington State. Other states including Colorado, Tennessee, Arizona and Florida have specific requirements for training. You can get some information from this link: https://iaamb.org/resources/laws-by-state/. This report is from a few years ago so be sure to confirm its accuracy. You can also call our office to discuss your plans at 877.836.3703.

Yes! Of course, the financial rewards of animal massage vary and some graduates do massage part-time alongside their current careers. On average, a full-time animal massage therapist (working 40-60 hours per week) can make between $25,0000-$75,000 depending on their region, their clientele and their training. Equine massage therapists can charge between $75-125 for a session and canine massage therapists can charge between $45-$95. There are employment opportunties as well in daycare centers, grooming salons, veterinary clinics and rehabilitation centers, but many graduates prefer to establish their own private practices to enjoy the financial rewards of their work as well as the flexibility and tax benefit of running their own business.

Yes! You should consider a program of no less than 200 hours and a curriculum that explores not just massage techniques, but also behavior, anatomy and physiology, biomechanics and first aid and pathology. The programs at NWSAM offer all of this plus business practice and ethics for those pursuing a career in this field. Our programs offer blended learning so you can study online from home as well as join us for a hands-on practicum as part of your training.

This is a common question. Petting can be a form of basic massage, like when a friend rubs your shoulders. If feels great and it is meaningful, but it differs from massage. In a massage, a therapist uses their knowledge of anatomy and pathology to determine the animal's highest need physically, emotionally and mentally and then uses specific strokes and techniques to elicit physiological changes in the body. You could think of it as a sophisticated form of petting with wide reaching effects. A good therapist will work with you to teach you ways to enhance your petting sessions as well, but regular professional massage is a key to your animal's health and longevity.