LCF Equine Massage Services

07/26/2025

Some fun ideas to keep your horse cool on these hot days!

When the temps skyrocket, treat your horse to his version of a popsicle with this super-easy DIY recipe.

07/19/2025

Looking to treat your horse after a great show weekend? Appointments available at Caledon Equestrian Park and Angelstone on select days. Message me for more info or to find out about show packages.

07/05/2025

Did you know massages aren't just for high level performance horses? Any horse can benefit from a massage- young horses, retired ones, you name it.
My 28 year old retired guy loves his little massages that help keep him moving comfortably.

06/24/2025

Show season is in full swing. Massage is a great way to keep your equine athletes supple, comfortable and sound so that they can perform their best. DM me to find out about Show packages which include pre and post massages. Show day massages are also available at select shows in Caledon, Rockwood and Essa.

06/24/2025

With these hot days we're having, remember to be mindful of your horse and their health.

🔥 How the Humidex Affects Horses

The humidex (or heat index) can significantly affect horse health and performance, especially in hot and humid weather. Horses are more sensitive to heat stress than humans, and humidity can severely limit their ability to cool themselves through sweating.

🚨Risk Levels Using Temperature + Humidity
(Often referred to as the “Heat Stress Index”)

A common guideline for horses:
Temperature (°C) + Humidity (%) = Risk Level → Recommendation
< 130 = Low risk → Normal work possible
130–150 = Moderate risk → Use caution; reduce intensity
> 150 = High risk → Limit work; monitor for heat stress signs
> 180 = Severe/Dangerous → Avoid work; serious risk of heat stroke

Example:
30°C + 60% humidity = 30 + 60 = 90 → Safe
30°C + 90% humidity = 30 + 90 = 120 → Moderate to high risk depending on activity
(Note: This index is similar to but not exactly the same as the human humidex.)

Signs of Heat Stress in Horses:
⚠️Heavy sweating or no sweating at all
⚠️Rapid breathing or panting
⚠️Elevated heart rate
⚠️Weakness or stumbling
⚠️Lethargy or depression
⚠️High re**al temperature (> 39.5°C)

How to Help Horses in High Humidex Conditions:
✅Work in early morning or late evening
✅Provide ample shade and water
✅Hose down with cool water and scrape off excess
✅Offer electrolytes as needed
✅Avoid hauling during peak heat
✅Monitor closely during and after work

Stay cool and stay safe! ☀️💧

06/17/2025

Back in Ontario and taking on new clients in Dufferin, Simcoe, Wellington and surrounding areas. Multiple horse discounts available. PM for more info on pricing and services.

12/16/2021

Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for your horse or the horse lover in your life? Why not treat your horse to a massage! I still have some availability for December. Covering Simcoe, Dufferin, Halton, Wellington counties.

11/03/2021

Keep in mind how no stirrup November affects your horse's back!!!

07/21/2020

Exciting news- I will.be expanding my coverage area to include Dundalk, Creemore, Collingwood, Blue Mountain and surrounding area. I will be continuing to serve Wellington, Dufferin, Simcoe and Muskoka areas as well. Message me to set up an appointment and get your horse and yourself on the path to better living and performance.

07/08/2020

Equine massage offers a variety of benefits for your equine partner including reduced pain, freedom of movement and improved performance. It benefits any horse from your backyard buddy to grand prix show horses.
LCF equine Massage is now accepting new clients in Simcoe and Dufferin regions as well as continuing to accept clients in Halton, Peel, Wellington and Waterloo counties.
Message me to find out how I can help you and your equine friend.

07/08/2020

Remember horses can suffer from overheating just like us. Here are some tips for treating it should it happen

HEAT STROKE IN HORSES ☀️🐴

A horse’s body maintains its normal temperature in hot weather by moving heat through the muscles and out through the skin. Exercise is a major source of body heat, and horses that cannot sweat will usually overheat very rapidly, even in cooler weather with a small amount of exercise.

When outside temperature + relative humidity = 150 or above, it's hard for a horse to keep cool because their ability to sweat is compromised — especially if the humidity contributes over half of the 150.

Signs of heat stroke may range from mild to severe and life-threatening. Foals usually cannot take as much heat as adult horses. A mare may be fine, but her foal may be getting sick from being out on a hot day. Horses with heavy muscling or excess fat or in poor condition will have more problems. Keep in mind that strenuous exercise on a hot, humid day can lead to problems in a short period of time for even the best-conditioned horse.

Does this mean you should not ride on a hot day? Not necessarily. It just means you should take precautions and use your common sense. Remain vigilant for dehydration and signs of heat exhaustion, as heat exhaustion can advance to heat stroke quickly. Above all, be kind and attentive to your equine partner’s need. If you feel hot, they feel hotter. So if they look tired, it’s time for a drink, a cold bath, and a break in the shade.
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Source: Heat Stroke | https://aaep.org/horsehealth/heat-stroke

05/22/2020

A great read for those getting their horses back to work

Return to Competition Guidelines for the Sport Horse Following a Break in Training Due to COVID-19