Vocational school that offers training in large animal massage and acupressure for horses and livestock and small animal massage and acupressure for dogs and cats.
Degrees offered
Certificate
Specialized accreditation
National Board of Certification for Animal Acupressure and Massage; National Certification Board of Therapeutic Massage and Bodywork, International Association of Animal Massage and Bodyworkers.
Specialized licensure
Washington State Department of Health, Washington State Workforce Training and Education Coordinating Board; Oregon Higher Education Credentialing Commission
Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act eligible training provider
Most programs; see program descriptions
School mascot
"Gorilla" the Jack Russell Terrier
School setting
Setting
Suburban (within commuting distance of a large city)
Training includes information on animal behavior and handling, anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, massage techniques or acupressure theory, first aid for animals, and business development. The school operates on a year-round basis. Students complete a home-study program (130 hours), plus a resident training program (70 hours) for certification at each level. Upon completion of their chosen program, the student receives a certificate and is prepared for work in the field of animal massage. The school also offers advanced training in sports massage and rehabilitation massage for animals, as well as several workshops for pet owners and animal health care professionals.
Student Body
Enrollment
Total number of students
350
Average class size is 12 to 15 students. Annual enrollment is 350 students.
Costs
Program costs
Tuition is $1,500 to $1,900 plus a $500 practicum for each certification level of training. There is a $20 shipping and handling fee for each program. Workshops vary in length and cost and start as low as $65. Tuition financing is available.
