Site Under Construction! Thank you for your patience - Maren
Preparedness:
Horses should be brought in and ready at the scheduled time. If time is spent catching or cleaning the horse upon arrival, the session may have to be shortened to stay on schedule.
Environment:
A flat, dry, and sheltered surface is required for all appointments. I cannot work on slippery, hilly, or muddy ground due to safety concerns for myself and your horse(s).
In summer, shade or protection from direct sun is required.
In winter, a covered area is needed for trimming appointments.
Handler Requirement:
A knowledgeable horse handler must be present for all appointments. In select cases, for clients/horses I’ve worked with for 6+ months, I may be able to bring an assistant to act as a handler if you're unavailable. A $20 per horse handler fee will apply, which goes directly to my assistant.
Payment:
Payment is due immediately at the time of service. Accepted methods: e-transfer, invoice, or cash. Late payments may incur a fee.
Communication & Transparency:
Please notify in advance of any known issues: difficulty standing, behavioural challenges, injuries, etc. This allows for proper time management and a safe working environment. If deemed unsafe at any point during the appointment, services will be terminated, and the full appointment fee will be charged.
Approach & Client Involvement:
Every horse is unique. I may recommend changes to your horse’s care within your comfort and means. You are your horse’s advocate - no question is too small or too big. Education is a key part of my work.
Cancellation Policy:
Appointments cancelled with less than 24 hours’ notice will be charged 100% of the appointment fee.
24 to 48 hours’ notice warrants a cancellation fee of 50%.
Appointments cancelled with 48+ hours’ notice will be rescheduled at no charge.
Cancellations due to emergencies (for either horse or owner) will be waived.
No-shows or appointments cancelled after the scheduled time will incur the full cancellation fee.
Horse Preparation:
Horses must be clean and dry. I cannot massage wet or muddy horses, for your horses' comfort. They should also be caught and ready at the scheduled time. If time is needed for catching or grooming after I arrive, the session may need to be shortened accordingly.
During the Session:
To help me properly observe your horse’s body language
Please keep talking, brushing, or petting to a minimum.
Questions are encouraged, but please wait for appropriate breaks during the session to ask.
Avoid booking appointments during feeding or busy barn times
Ending a Session Early:
If a massage must be cut short due to behaviour or pain response, the full fee still applies. This ensures safety for everyone involved and respects the time commitment.
Environment & Horse Preparation:
Horses must be on a flat, dry, non-slippery surface for safety. In summer, shaded areas are required, and in winter, a covered space is necessary.
Legs should be clean, and hooves ideally picked. Dirt and dried mud are understandable, but legs must not be wet or covered in slippery mud.
Trimming & Time-Based Fees:
The full trim fee will be charged at every visit, regardless of how many hooves are completed or whether it's a trim or assessment.
I’m happy to take breaks for horses that need them due to age, stiffness, or anxiety. If additional time is needed, I charge an hourly rate of $150. Rehab trims and more complex cases are assessed individually and billed hourly.
Safety:
For everyone's safety, horses MUST know how to stand. If your horse cannot stand well, I'd be happy to provide referrals to qualified trainers. I am also happy to assist with training young horses and take my time with older, sore, or stiff horses. However, for my safety, I cannot work with any horses who kick, pull hooves, bite, or exhibit other behavioural issues that put me in danger. An injury to me would not only affect me but also impact my other clients.
Punctuality:
I strive to arrive on time and will communicate promptly if I am delayed.
Patience & Compassion:
I work with horses of all ages and backgrounds, including those recovering from injury or trauma. I am always happy to adjust my approach and timing to suit your horse’s needs.
Whole Horse Approach:
I take a comprehensive view of your horse’s health and well-being. I may discuss bodywork, hoof care,
nutrition, and environment as part of our sessions.
Ongoing Education:
I am committed to learning through frequent classes, webinars, mentorships, and professional development. I believe in staying current with evidence-based care and evolving practices.
Professionalism & Collaboration:
I value working with veterinarians, farriers, and other equine professionals to ensure your horse receives holistic, team-based care. I believe that everyone has something to share and that collaboration leads to better outcomes.
