Doggone U - Bancroft

08/27/2025

**🌱 What’s Next for This Page 🌱**

Although the Bancroft School of Massage Therapy’s Animal Programs have officially closed, this page will remain active.

In the months ahead, you’ll continue to see posts about animals, bodywork, and the community this program helped create. Over time, the page will grow and change — just as our field does — and we invite you to stay connected for what comes next.

This page will continue to be managed by Lisa Turcotte and Lisa Ruthig. Together, we’ll be here to answer questions, share resources, and help point you toward schools or programs if you’re exploring training in animal bodywork. Please don’t hesitate to reach out — this community has always been about supporting one another.

Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping keep the spirit of animal bodywork alive. 💛

Send a message to learn more

08/18/2025

08/08/2025

A Grateful Farewell to a Legacy of Learning 🐾

After nearly 20 years of dedicated service to the animal bodywork community, the Bancroft School of Massage Therapy's Animal Programs/Doggone U are officially closing their doors.

We extend our deepest gratitude to the hundreds of students and graduates who chose this path and trusted us with their education. Your passion, skill, and compassion have elevated the profession and enriched the lives of countless animals.

Most of all, we honor the exceptional educators who shaped this program’s heart and soul. Your knowledge and mentorship built a legacy of talented, compassionate practitioners who will carry this work forward.

While this chapter closes, the impact of the Bancroft Animal Programs will continue through the hands and hearts of those we've taught. Thank you for being part of something truly special.

~With appreciation,
The Bancroft Team

Send a message to learn more

07/16/2025

A little birdie told use there were some new things happening! Check back for more info in a day or two!

04/28/2025

CE Course Announcement
Reiki for All Species Level 2
Offered by Nancy Windheart

5 CE SKILLS Hours earned
10 GENERAL CE Hours earned

Course Dates: May 5-June 7 2025
Registration Closes: May 5

This class is for people who have had Reiki 1 in any tradition. Reiki 2 deepens your experience of Reiki, and includes learning and using the three Level 2 Reiki symbols and Advanced Japanese Reiki techniques. You will learn how to use distant Reiki (including past/future healing), and will practice doing complete Reiki sessions using all of the symbols. You’ll also learn more about sharing Reiki with animals and how to use the Level 2 Reiki symbols and practices with your animal friends.Students will receive a Reiki For All Species Level 2 Certificate upon completion of the course.

04/10/2025

Our barn for our May classes has fallen through, and we’re urgently seeking a new spot to host us. You’ll be compensated, and the horses under your care will get massages!

Here’s what we need: a location within 15 minutes of Worcester, MA, an indoor space for saddle fitting and gait analysis classes, restroom facilities, a quiet aisle or separate area for lectures and hands-on technique practice, and at least 10 horses available (we don’t want to overwork them). We’ll have 10-12 people attending. If you’ve got a place that fits, please message us!

04/09/2025

Dream of making a difference in the lives of horses? Your journey starts with our Equine Massage Certification Program kicking off September 2025! At Bancroft School of Massage Therapy, we’re pioneering animal massage education with a program designed for horse lovers like you. In just 10 months, our Fast-Track course dives deep into equine anatomy, hands-on massage skills, and the business know-how to launch your career—all with a small cohort (max 12 students) for that personal touch. Picture yourself learning from passionate instructors, practicing at local barns, and blending online study with real-world experience. “This program opened my eyes to a whole new way of helping horses,” says grad Sarah M. Ready to join her? Spots are filling fast—head to horseanddogmassage.com or DM us to reserve yours today!

04/07/2025

Transform your connection with animals through Reiki! Join Linda Crabtree of Circle of Peace for two incredible Animal Reiki courses using the Let Animals Lead® Method in Lancaster, MA. Hosted by Bancroft School of Massage Therapy/Doggone U, these classes are filling up fast!

Shoden + Animal Reiki Level 1 (April 27 & May 4, 2025) – Start your Reiki journey and bring healing to animals at home, shelters, or work. $325, 14 CE hours.

Okuden + Animal Reiki Level 2 (May 25 & June 1, 2025) – Deepen your practice, learn distance Reiki, and go professional. $390, 14 CE hours. (Prerequisite: Level 1)

25% of fees support Rein in a Dream Horsemanship Center. Don’t miss out—secure your spot today: https://circleofpeace.com/contact.htm! Please note which class you are signing up for when filling out the form.

Have questions? Message Linda for payment details or more info. Let’s create peace together! "

04/02/2025

Ready to bring peace and healing to yourself and the animals you love? Join Linda Crabtree of Circle of Peace for two transformative Reiki courses using the Let Animals Lead® Method!

Shoden + Animal Reiki Level 1 (April 27 & May 4, 2025) - Learn beginner techniques to support your well-being and share Reiki with animals. $325, 14 CE hours, max 8 students. Perfect for home, shelters, or work!

Okuden + Animal Reiki Level 2 (May 25 & June 1, 2025) - Deepen your practice, master distance Reiki, and go pro. $390, 14 CE hours, max 8 students. Prerequisite: Level 1.

Both hosted by Bancroft School of Massage Therapy/Doggone U in Lancaster, MA. 25% of fees support Rein in a Dream Horsemanship Center. Limited spots—register now: https://circleofpeace.com/contact.htm! Detail which class you want to attend when filling out the form

Questions? Message Linda for details. Let’s create balance together!"

04/02/2025

03/31/2025

Ready to turn your passion for horses into a rewarding career? Sign up NOW for our Equine Massage Certification Program starting September 2025! At Bancroft School of Massage Therapy, we believe the time is now for massage to join the health services available for animals—and we’re setting the standard for excellence. Our comprehensive training covers equine anatomy, advanced massage techniques, ethics, and business practices, preparing you to become a competent professional in just 10 months with our Fast-Track program. With small class sizes, hands-on practice at local barns, and a mix of online lectures, you’ll get personalized attention from instructors who love what they do. Graduates say it best: “Your dedication and passion for horses and teaching future generations really showed throughout this program.” ~Trish D. Don’t miss out—spots are limited! Contact us via the form on horseanddogmassage.com or message us here to secure your place and help horses thrive.

03/22/2025

Day 2 of hands on live classes! Sesame is loving being a demo horse! Thanks to Whip-O-Will Stables in Dudley for
hosting us!