The Veterinary Act is a Parliamentary Act passed in order to safeguard the welfare of sick or injured animals.

It is an offence for any person, other than the owner of the animal, to treat an animal unless the permission of the vet in charge of the case or to whom the animal would be referred is sought and obtained.

Before visiting any horse, I seek permission from the horse's usual veterinary surgeon to allow me to carry out massage therapy.

If I have concerns about the horse I visit I will refer him back to his vet. Likewise, if I feel the horse may benefit from a visit from the farrier, saddle fitter or horse dentist I will recommend this to the owner.