Frequently Asked Questions

Bowen is a gentle but effective hands-on therapy that works across the horse’s whole body. It uses light, precise moves over muscles, tendons and soft tissue to influence the fascia — the connective tissue that surrounds and supports every structure in the body. Fascia is rich in nerve endings, so these small movements send signals to the nervous system, encouraging the body to rebalance, release tension and restore easier movement.

There is no force, deep pressure or manipulation involved.

Yes. Horses of all ages, breeds and disciplines generally respond well to Bowen. It can support horses in full work, those in light or occasional work, and retired horses or those on box rest.

There are only a few situations where treatment may be inadvisable, which will be discussed during the pre-treatment assessment.

Fascia is a continuous network of connective tissue that lies beneath the skin and wraps around every muscle, bone, organ, tendon and ligament. It allows structures to glide and communicate with one another and plays an essential role in movement, coordination and comfort.

When fascia becomes tight or restricted — often due to injury, tension, compensation or stress — it can affect the horse’s posture, movement and overall wellbeing. Bowen helps encourage release and healthier fascial function.

Bowen may support horses experiencing:

• unevenness, stiffness or shortened stride

• back, shoulder or poll tension

• reluctance in work or changes in behaviour

• gait abnormalities or uneven hoof wear

• anxiety, dullness or reduced enthusiasm

• general tension, compensatory patterns or postural issues

Some horses also experience emotional release, particularly those carrying past trauma or long-standing tension.

The first session includes a visual assessment and discussion of your horse’s history. Treatments generally take around an hour and can be carried out in the stable or on the yard — wherever your horse is most relaxed.

During the session, there will be quiet pauses to allow the horse’s body to process the work. These pauses are an integral part of the therapy, enabling subtle adjustments and nervous-system regulation.

Horses may show a range of subtle responses, which vary widely. Common signs include:

• yawning or sighing

• lowering the head

• licking and chewing

• softening of the eye or bottom lip

• zoning out or dozing

• shaking through the body

• increased gut sounds

Some horses may also show “lymph stripes” — lines or ripples in the coat that indicate fascial and lymphatic activity.

Every horse is different. For horses new to Bowen, a course of three sessions spaced 7–10 days apart is often recommended to achieve the best results.

Maintenance treatments vary from every three to six months, depending on your horse’s workload, age, history and individual needs.

Kerry treats horses across Devon. Mileage is charged for visits beyond 15 miles. For owners at greater distances, it may be more practical to find a therapist closer to home.

• Your horse should be dry and relatively clean, with no caked mud or sweat.

• Avoid giving a hard feed immediately before treatment.

• Your horse may do light work beforehand, provided they have cooled and dried.

• Your horse will ideally need two days of rest to allow the body to adjust.

• Turnout is recommended to encourage natural movement and lymphatic flow.

• Avoid tight schooling or intensive exercise for four days.

• Ensure access to water; horses often drink more after treatment.

• Avoid feeding hard feed for several hours afterwards.

• If it is cool weather, they will need rugging afterwards to keep the muscles warm.

No. Bowen practitioners do not diagnose conditions or prescribe medication. Bowen is a complementary therapy and not a replacement for veterinary care.

Kerry works with your vet where needed and requires confirmation of veterinary consent before treating your horse.

Bowen integrates well with many other therapies, but it is generally best to complete a Bowen treatment course first, giving the horse time to adjust before introducing additional modalities.

Kerry offers:

• Home boarding: your dog stays with her in a calm, home-from-home environment while you are away.

• Day care: daytime care including two walks, rest time, and social interaction. Pick-up and drop-off points are available for day care.

• Dog walking: individual or small-group walks, offered when day care and boarding schedules allow. For walking, Kerry can pick up and drop off your dog from your home.

• Dog boarding: £35 per 24 hours
• Dog day care: £25 for between 8.30am- 5.30pm approximately
• Dog walking: £15 (approx. 1 hour)

Kerry is fully licensed, insured and canine first-aid trained, and operates in full compliance with the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (England) Regulations 2018. Her current licence details are available on the website.

She also has a lifetime of experience with dogs, including working with more sensitive and rescue cases, and has completed a range of behaviour and welfare training courses to support this work. Her approach is grounded in positive, fear-free handling and a calm, consistent environment where dogs feel safe and relaxed.

Yes. Your dog will meet other boarding or day care dogs, as well as Kerry’s own calm, placid dog. You will be asked to confirm that you are happy for your dog to mix socially.

All dogs must be fully vaccinated and on a veterinary-approved parasite control programme.

Kerry works with a trusted local veterinary practice for emergency situations.

You will be asked to sign consent allowing them to treat your dog if your own vet is too far away.

Kerry is canine first-aid trained and can provide basic care until veterinary help is available.

Yes. Kerry’s home and outdoor areas meet licensing requirements for safety and security. All areas are cleaned regularly using dog-safe products.

Dogs must wear a collar and ID tag while in her care.

Yes. Kerry is a keen walker and ensures day care and boarding dogs receive two good walks each day, unless you advise otherwise.

Dogs can enjoy:

• rest areas

• supervised play

• toys

• puzzles

• scent games

• gentle grooming (if they enjoy it)

• plenty of positive human interaction

Yes. This is essential for the wellbeing of all dogs in Kerry’s care.

Only for very short periods and always alongside other dogs.

Dogs with severe separation anxiety may be accepted by prior arrangement.

Possibly — depending on the mix of dogs present at the time. Bitches in season or entire males require prior discussion.

Simple medication can be administered.

Dogs with complex medical needs cannot be accepted.

Yes, please bring your dog’s usual food.

You may also bring familiar bedding, especially for boarding.

Yes. All dogs travel in individual, secured crates. They are never left in the vehicle for more than a brief moment and never in hot weather.