Date: November 8-11, 2025

Cost: R18,000

Duration: 4 days

In this 4-day course, Ruth Mitchell Golladay leads participants through the theory, concepts and application of MFR. Myofascial Release (MFR) has long been an effective treatment modality for humans, and more recently it has become a frequent choice when caring for horses. Fortunately, the canine population too is now beginning to benefit from this potent therapy. This four-day course offers the participant the science of MFR, myofascial evaluation of the dog, and techniques to reduce dysfunctions. As usual in the Equinology and Caninology courses, there will be plenty of hands on portions with the dogs enabling you to apply the technique with confidence. Those already certified in Canine Sports Massage or other canine modalities will find this dynamic modality fits in well with their work adding a new dimension. You’ll discover wonderful results with the techniques integrating into your existing routine. Those participants just starting out will find it an easy approach for understanding and applying the work. Ruth is constantly allowing her courses to evolve with her ever increasing knowledge. Like many of our instructors, she too continues her education and enhances her practices by attending conferences, events, courses and workshops. Following the course, students will immediately be able to produce positive structural changes whether the problem is an acute or long standing dysfunction with this full body approach.
Course Outline: Theory
  • myofascial/osseous and related structures
  • anatomy
  • biomechanics
  • conformation and definition of common canine injuries
  • handling and safety
  • body mechanics for application
Myofascial Release Techniques
  • physical evaluations
  • gait analysis
  • lower extremities
  • lumbar/pelvic region
  • anterior & posterior thoracic region
  • cervical spine
  • atlas and axis
Additional Practicals
  • myofascial osseous release
  • myofascial stretching
  • therapeutic exercise
Duration: Students attend class daily from 8am to 5pm and have additional 3 hours of evening studies. There is an hour break for lunch. This is an intense course; please plan to attend for all four days.
Suggested Reading: Color Atlas of Veterinary Anatomy: The Dog & Cat (Color Atlas of Veterinary Anatomy) by Stanley H. Done, et al. Dog Anatomy: A Pictorial Approach to Canine Structure by Peter C. Goody. This text will be used in the class. Please have it with you. It is available at most online bookstores.
A working knowledge of veterinary vocabulary, anatomy and dog handling skills.

RUTH MITCHELL-GOLLADAY

PT, EEBW, CMT
As a physical therapist, massage therapist, Equinology Equine Body Worker, and lifetime animal lover, Ruth Mitchell-Golladay is able to combine knowledge and experience with love to care for animal populations. Ruth, a Texan, received her graduate degree in physical therapy from The University of Iowa in 1972 and opened a private practice in Dallas in 1978. She then attended The Institute of Natural Healing Sciences in Colleyville, Texas, in 1991, for her massage therapy training. She is Nationally Board Certified in Therapeutic Massage and Body Work and state licensed. Additionally, she obtained her Equinology Equine Body Worker certification in 2004. Ruth began her Myofascial Release education in 1987, has taken all John Barnes MFR courses (including equine), and was a Senior Instructor/Coordinator, Co-lecturer and Primary Lecturer for John Barnes, teaching over 130 courses for him from 1988-2002. From 1999 until her resignation in June 2001, she was the Primary Lecturer for the Barnes Equine MFR courses. In 1990, Ruth opened Equine Therapeutic Center, Inc. which is now based at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia from May through October and the Rio Grande Valley of Texas from November through April. In both locations Ruth provides therapy for horse and rider. She uses her biomechanical knowledge to assist in determining a problem with the horse (or human) and then primarily utilizes Myofascial Release to decrease the symptoms and/or dysfunction. In addition, she uses laser, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, Red Light Acupoint Therapy, essential oils and specialized taping techniques. To assist owner, trainer and/or rider in a home program of care she also includes exercises, including stabilization and core exercises for the horse and rider.
A R4,000 deposit is required to hold your spot in a course – the remainder of the tuition is due at least six weeks prior to the course start date. The R4,000 deposit is nonrefundable and nontransferable, and is credited to the total tuition for the course. Confirmation letters, course outlines, required pre-study (if applicable), directions and lodging options will be sent when the R4,000 deposit has been received.

REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS TODAY!