AB Hoof & Paw Bodywork – Equine & Canine Massage Therapy

Our Mission

AB Hoof & Paw Bodywork & Massage offers holistic, science-aligned bodywork for horses and dogs, integrating therapeutic touch with a deep understanding of behavior, stress, and the mind-body connection. Founded and operated by Dr. Amanda C. Bertram, a psychologist with advanced expertise in behavior and wellness, the practice brings a uniquely informed perspective to equine and canine care.

Drawing from a blend of therapeutic massage, targeted stretching, red light recovery therapy, and PEMF therapy (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy), AB Hoof & Paw supports animals in achieving greater comfort, mobility, and emotional balance. Each session is tailored to the individual animal, honoring their physical needs, communication cues, and behavioral patterns.

With the added foundation of a doctoral-level understanding of psychology, the practice emphasizes:

The interplay between physical tension and emotional stress
Behavioral indicators of discomfort, anxiety, or compensation
Trauma-informed, gentle handling approaches
Trust-building and nervous-system regulation
Whole-animal wellness rooted in both physiology and behavior

AB Hoof & Paw Bodywork & Massage helps horses and dogs:

Improve circulation and tissue health
Release muscular tension and compensation patterns
Increase flexibility and range of motions
Support joint comfort and mobility
Reduce stress and promote emotional calm
Enhance recovery from training, activity, or injury
Strengthen body awareness, confidence, and relaxation

Grounded in compassion, patience, and evidence-aligned practice, AB Hoof & Paw Bodywork & Massage serves as a bridge between traditional care and holistic wellness. The result is a thoughtful, integrative approach that supports the longevity, comfort, and emotional well-being of the animals who enrich our lives.

Why Choose AB Hoof & Paw Bodywork & Massage?

Our Passion

At AB Hoof & Paw, caring for animals is both a passion and a lifelong commitment. As a lifelong dog owner and a horse owner for more than 20 years, I understand how deeply we value our four-legged family members and the desire to provide them with the very best care. My goal is simple: to support the comfort, mobility, and emotional well-being of your animals through gentle, holistic therapies like PEMF therapy, red light recovery therapy, and therapeutic massage, all delivered with respect and compassion.

Our flexibility

We understand that every pet is unique, which is why we provide customized services tailored to their specific needs. Our offerings include therapeutic massage, red light recovery therapy, and soon, PEMF therapy (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy). Each pet receives the same care, respect, and compassion that I would give my own.

Our Expertise

After a successful 30‑year career in Compliance and Pharmacovigilance, I bring that same unwavering commitment to quality, integrity, and thoughtful attention to every animal I work with. As a certified professional through Equissage International and a member of IAAMB (International Association of Animal Massage & Bodywork), I specialize in therapeutic massage, PEMF therapy, and red light recovery therapy to promote the well-being of animals.

Our Therapies

Therapeutic Massage

Massage therapy for animals employs structured, evidence-aligned manual techniques to influence soft tissues, improve circulation, and support healthy neuromuscular function. By stimulating mechanoreceptors in the skin and muscles, therapeutic massage can help reduce tension, enhance lymphatic flow, and promote relaxation of the autonomic nervous system.
Additionally, combining massage with PEMF therapy and red light recovery therapy can amplify these physiological effects, supporting improved mobility, decreased muscle stiffness, and more efficient recovery from activity or everyday strain in both horses and dogs.
- Soft Tissue Mobilization in Sport and Companion Animals: A Systematic Review (2022)
- Massage, Red-light ang PEMF Effect on Bone Healing in Animal Models: Review (2022)

Red Light Therapy

Red light recovery therapy utilizes specific wavelengths of low‑level light to stimulate cellular function and support tissue repair. The two wavelength ranges most commonly used in animal bodywork are red light (visible light) and near‑infrared (NIR) light, each with distinct behaviors in the body.
By penetrating the skin and underlying soft tissues, these wavelengths enhance mitochondrial activity, increase ATP production, and promote improved circulation at the microvascular level. This process can help reduce inflammation, support collagen synthesis, ease muscular tension, and accelerate natural healing responses.
For horses and dogs, red light recovery therapy offers a gentle, non‑invasive method to support mobility, recovery, and overall musculoskeletal health. Additionally, combining this therapy with PEMF therapy and therapeutic massage can further enhance healing and recovery outcomes.
- Meta-Analysis: Photobiomodulation, including red light recovery therapy, for Canine Pain and Inflammation (2025)
- Scientific Foundations of Red Light Therapy for Animal Wellness (2024-2025)
- Laser Therapy in Veterinary Regenerative Medicine: Exploring therapeutic massage and its benefits in the field (2025)

PEMF

PEMF therapy (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy) utilizes low-frequency electromagnetic waves to influence cellular function and support tissue repair. These pulsed fields enhance ion exchange, improve circulation, and promote efficient cellular metabolism.
By supporting natural anti-inflammatory processes and encouraging healthy cellular regeneration, PEMF therapy can aid in reducing discomfort, improving mobility, and supporting overall musculoskeletal health in both horses and dogs. Additionally, when combined with red light recovery therapy and therapeutic massage, the benefits of PEMF therapy can be further amplified, enhancing recovery and well-being.
- Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF therapy) for pain control in dogs with hip osteoarthritis: A randomized clinical study

Appointments & Pricing

Canine Massage Combination Package

50 mins | $80 - Includes BOTH Red-light and PEMF treatment during therapy. *Ask about multi-pet discounts at time of booking.

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Equine Massage Combination Package

1 hr | $125 - Includes Red-light therapy as part of the treatment. *Ask about multi-horse discounts.