Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 3:01 PM AWST

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Conduct assessment for equine massage therapy

Conduct assessment for equine massage therapy

Unit of competency
National Code
ACMEQU509
State Code
ODV36
TGA Status
Current
DTWD Status
Approved
Current Release Number
1.00
Current Release Date
18/02/2022
View on TGA
State Implementation and Classification
Approved Date
25/05/2022
Field of Education
050105 - Animal Husbandry
Original Release Date
25/05/2022
Nominal Hours
110
Description
This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to assess a horse or other equine prior to carrying out massage therapy. The unit applies to individuals who perform equine massage therapy for clients and carers. They work autonomously, take responsibility for their own work, and apply technical massage knowledge and skills to provide and communicate solutions for predictable and unpredictable problems.Commonwealth and state/territory health and safety and animal welfare legislation, regulations and codes of practice relevant to interacting with horses apply to workers in this industry. Current state/territory veterinary practice legislation and restricted acts of veterinary science limit the activities that may be carried out by non-registered veterinarians. Requirements vary between jurisdictions. All activities should be carried out within the constraints of the current, relevant legislation.
Notes
Elements and Performance Criteria
1. Determine client requirements
  • 1.1 Clarify client requirements and expectations related to horse massage therapy
  • 1.2 Provide clear information about scope and limits of services to be provided, and obtain client consent to proceed with assessment
  • 1.3 Gather information and prepare an accurate record of horse health and performance issues
  • 1.4 Recognise needs beyond scope of own practice and make referrals to veterinarian or other equine health care practitioners as required
2. Conduct assessment of horse condition
  • 2.1 Assess and control risks associated with interacting with horses in close proximity
  • 2.2 Prepare safe and controlled area for conducting horse examination
  • 2.3 Approach and interact with horse using safe, low stress handling techniques, and secure as required
  • 2.4 Carry out an initial visual assessment of horse conformation and movement
  • 2.5 Conduct physical examination of horse, using palpation techniques appropriate for body area, to identify areas of compromise, changes to texture, tension and tenderness
  • 2.6 Work within equine safe zone and position own body and hands to detect potential horse movement or reactions during examination
  • 2.7 Monitor horse reaction to physical examination to ensure safety and humane treatment of horse
3. Determine massage therapy requirements
  • 3.1 Explain outcomes of examination and potential therapy options with owner or carer
  • 3.2 Refer owner to registered veterinarian or other equine health care practitioner for conditions outside scope of practice
  • 3.3 Assess horse suitability for massage therapy and plan short-term and longer-term goals as required
  • 3.4 Confirm service to be carried out and details of arrangements and estimate costs
  • 3.5 Confirm owner or carer consent for therapy, or document information for referral, if required
  • 3.6 Complete horse and client records according to workplace practice
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State Code National Code Title Type
BHN4 ACM50521 Diploma of Equine Allied Health Qualification