May 2019 Practitioner of the month.....michele whitmore

Name: Michele Whitmore

Location: ​Brunswick, Maine, USA

Certifications  Through Angel's Animals: Equine Myo-manipulative Functional Therapy

When did you decide that you wanted to work with animals? I’ve always known I wanted to work with animals since I was a young kid. I started riding when I was 7 and never stopped. My guidance counselors use to get so annoyed with me that I wouldn’t explore other career options. haha! 

What animal influenced you the most growing up? Weirdly enough the wolf actually did because of how strong they are. But horses kept my sanity as I grew up, not to mention kept me out of trouble. They Taught me patience, communication, and to keep a sense of humor. 

What animals do you currently own? Well I own 4 horses, 8 chickens and a cat. I have 11 horses on my property though. Leased lesson horses and boarders. 

What makes your animal bodywork practice stand out? I like to look at the whole animal when I take on a new client. I look at the feet, saddle, the way they hold themselves, also emotional state. They can tell you a lot if you take a moment to look at more then what they are doing wrong. I try to help the whole horse not just the muscle soreness. The muscle soreness is a result of something else in the bigger picture. 

What message would you like to share with potential clients? A message I’d like to send out to people is bodywork is so unbelievablely important and so greatly overlooked! It may not be a physical product your receiving and it’s hard to see what your paid for, especially if the animal needs a few sessions. But it work, not to mention they love it!  Their bodies are made up of 60% muscle give or take. How can you expect them to preform at their best if they are sore/tight or if they are locked in an incorrect position. Chiropractor and massage go hand in hand! You actually get a better/easier chiropractor adjustment if they get a full body massage! Keep it in mind the next time your horse misses or refuses a canter lead. Ask what’s going on in the back and hips. 

What message would you like to share with others who are thinking about pursing a career in animal bodywork? For those thinking about getting into it! Go for it! It’s super rewarding to be able to help the horses on a different level. ​

VISIT MICHELE'S WEBSITE