Veterinary Permission & Legal Requirements for Massage Therapy in the UK

As a qualified Equine Sports Massage Therapist, I’m committed to working safely, ethically, and within the law. This page outlines the current legal framework in the UK regarding veterinary permission for equine massage and similar musculoskeletal therapies.

 

Your horse’s welfare is always my top priority, and I work in close communication with vets to ensure every treatment is appropriate and compliant.

 

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The Legal Framework

In the UK, the practice of veterinary medicine is governed by the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, which makes it an offence for anyone who is not a registered veterinary surgeon to:

    •    Diagnose medical conditions,

    •    Prescribe medication, or

    •    Provide treatment by surgical or medical means.

 

However, under The Veterinary Surgery (Exemptions) Order 2015, certain manual therapies — such as massage, physiotherapy, and other musculoskeletal techniques — may legally be carried out by non-veterinarians, provided certain conditions are met.

 

The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) guidance clarifies these conditions:

    •    If a horse has an injury, illness, or lameness, a veterinary surgeon must first examine the horse and decide whether massage or other therapy is appropriate.

    •    If the horse is fit and healthy, a veterinary referral is not required for routine maintenance or performance work.

    •    If, during treatment, any signs of pain, lameness, or illness become apparent, the therapist must cease work immediately and refer the horse back to a vet.

 

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How This Applies in My Practice

I follow the current RCVS and BEVA recommendations to ensure every treatment is lawful, transparent, and welfare-centred.

 

For Horses Under Veterinary Care

If your horse is recovering from an injury or under veterinary treatment, I will always request written or confirmed veterinary consent before starting any hands-on work.

This ensures your horse receives fully integrated, professional care.

 

For Healthy, Sound Horses

If your horse is fit, well, and not being treated for a medical issue, I can provide maintenance or performance massage without prior veterinary referral.

However, I continuously monitor for any signs of discomfort or abnormality and will refer to your vet if needed.

 

Communication and Record Keeping

I maintain detailed records of all treatments, ensure owner consent is obtained, and am happy to share treatment notes with your vet when appropriate.

This collaborative approach keeps your horse’s care consistent and transparent.

 

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My Professional Standards

    •    Fully qualified and insured Equine Sports Massage Therapist

    •    Working within the scope of recognised professional and legal boundaries

    •    Committed to continuing professional development (CPD) and evidence-based practice

    •    Dedicated to upholding the highest standards of equine welfare

 

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Disclaimer

The information provided here is intended as a general guide to the current legal framework for equine massage and musculoskeletal therapy in England.

It reflects the requirements of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, The Veterinary Surgery (Exemptions) Order 2015, and RCVS guidance at the time of writing.

It does not constitute legal advice, and requirements may change over time.

Horse owners and therapists are encouraged to consult the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) or British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) for the most up-to-date professional guidance.