Carolyn T Kutchyera, EBW, CCM, BA. 

There have been very few 'dog or horse-less' periods in my life; those few times were to accomodate university years, travelling, or early career development.  I have been involved with horses since the early 70's and have been a primary caregiver of horses since 1979.  My first horse (a six year old off the track thoroughbred) lived a healthy 34 years (nearly 35). I credit him with inspiring me to begin the learning journey with equine physiology and bodywork in my quest to keep him active, healthy, and happy.

A highly distrustful young OTTB mare invaded my daily routines in 2003. She taught me a great deal on the relationship between humans and horses. The use of therapeutic touch opened up the doors of communication between us, and provided the foundation for our now solid and trusting friendship. She has become a confident mare who has faith in humans. She continues to humble me, and keeps me solidly on the learning path.

I am an enthusiastic participant in dog agility, and have been an instructor since January 2004 (with Hi Flyers Agility Training, Winnipeg). My current trial partner is at least 9 years old (a rescue dog - birthdate unknown), and I can see for myself the benefits that regular stretching and bodywork has had on her athleticism.  Relationship wise, much like the horses, this dog has insisted that I learn her ways of relating to the world; she wouldn't accept our habit of imposing a human perspective. A young border collie pup joined our family on New Year's Eve to herald in 2008, and is in training for agility (and she enjoys herding, naturally!).
 
Agility has taught me to see how a canine athlete develops, and has helped me to view the body from a physiological point of view.  I am fascinated with how it all works together, from conditioning of the muscles, to nutrition, skeletal structure and joint health, circulation, coordination, instinct and relationships. The more I learn, the more I realize what I do not know, and I take great pleasure in researching new topics by talking to medical professionals, observing, and reading.  In a year spent as a dog daycare attendant (with up to thirty loose dogs in my care),  I was able to focus on gait analysis, and how conformation affects movement.  I also studied pack dynamics, behaviour, and communication techniques.

I achieved certification as an Equine Body Worker (EBW)  from Equinology Inc. in August 2006, having begun formal studies in August 2005. I was awarded the 2007 J.W. Pattillo Scholarship to help further my training with advanced studies at Equinology, an honour and an opportunity that I am very grateful for. [To view the newsletter announcement, click here.]

In August 2008,  I became certified as a canine masseuse (CCM) through Treetops Inc. based in Ontario.
 
I am committed to improving my knowledge and skills on an ongoing basis.  I do this through attending seminars, workshops, and conferences; keeping abreast of current research via the web, trade publications, books and DVDs; and taking every opportunity to discuss issues with veterinarians and other professionals.  I am committed to providing the best care possible to my equine and canine clientele.

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