Our story & method
40+ years of field practice, 13 books, hundreds of workshops.
Where does Animal Massage Awareness come from
Jean‑Pierre Hourdebaigt started as a human massage therapist more than 40 years ago, specialising in sport massage, myofascial work and hydrotherapy. His passion for animals quickly led him to adapt these techniques to horses and dogs – from leisure to high‑level competition, and across a wide range of dog breeds and activities.
To reach more than the few animals he could treat with his own hands, he began teaching workshops and seminars, then publishing books and DVDs on equine and canine massage. Over time the Massage Awareness Method© became the Animal Massage Awareness Method©: a structured way to teach non‑professionals and professionals alike how to safely use massage, stretching and simple modalities with their own animals – today through online courses.
What is the Animal Massage Awareness Method©?
Touch with intention
Learning to feel tension, soreness and relaxation instead of guessing.
Clear protocols
Following proven sequences and routines instead of random movements.
Holistic view
Combining massage, stretching, basic hydrotherapy and energy awareness – while always respecting veterinary boundaries.
Education first
Giving owners and professionals tools they can use daily to prevent issues, not just react when things go wrong.
Who is AMA for?
Horse owners and riders
They feel something is off – tightness, soreness, reluctance – and want clear routines instead of guesswork.
Dog owners
They want to support their companions’ comfort, mobility and relaxation between veterinary visits.
Aspiring practitioners
Aspiring and practising animal massage practitioners who want a solid, method‑based foundation and recognised continuing education.
The AMA difference
40+ years of practice – not just theory
Jean‑Pierre has more than four decades of massage experience, treating humans, horses and dogs in North America and Europe. His equine and canine massage books are considered reference works, with detailed illustrations, anatomical charts, stress‑point maps and routines – all available in the Books & Manuals section of our store.
A complete, step-by-step education path
The method is organised into clear modules and bundles for both equine and canine programs, from first contact and basic routines to advanced sport work. Each step includes videos, guides and certificates so you always know where you are in your learning journey.
Recognised by leading organisations
The Animal Massage Awareness Method© is listed as a preferred / approved educational provider by organisations such as IAAMB/ACWT and NCBTMB for animal massage continuing education – recognitions that support the quality and seriousness of what you are learning.
Decades of knowledge in print
Ready to start?
Choose where you want to start – equine or canine, owner level or professional path – and follow a clear route inside the same method.
