Texas Regulations on Equine Massage

According to the Texas Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners, equine massage is allowed as an alternate, nonstandard therapy under the supervision of a veterinarian for the purpose of diagnosis and treatment of an equine.

Patient Relationship

A licensed veterinarian may perform musculoskeletal manipulation (MSM) on a horse provided that a valid veterinarian/client/patient relationship has been established.

Safe Treatment

The licensed veterinarian must determine through an examination that the MSM therapy will likely not be harmful to the patient.

Contractor

An employee of the veterinarian or an independent contractor, such as an equine massage therapist, may perform MSM on a horse under the direct or general supervision of the veterinarian.

Responsibility

Whether the veterinarian, employee of the veterinarian or an independent contractor performs the MSM, the veterinarian will be held responsible for the diagnosis of and treatment given the animal.

Non-Treatment MSM

In regards to massage performed without a veterinarian's supervision, massage is acceptable as long as it does not involve diagnosing or treating the animal.

References

• Rules Pertaining to the Practice of Veterinary Medicine
• USA Animal Massage Laws