Home About Liz Animal Therapies Blog Testimonials Contact Liz

Testimonials

Janice Chadwick - Owner Fir Tree Stud, Training & Livery Yard, East Yorkshire.

"We have had other body workers at Fir Tree Stud, but the results that Liz has acheived with some difficult patients especially in the pelvis area has been quite remarkable! The difference in their way of going speaks volumes about her ability to heal horses. Fir Tree Stud trains horses using natural horsemanship and classical methods, and it is important to us, to know that our horses backs are in good shape. Without Liz, our happy atheletes wouldn't be quite so happy!"

Janice Chadwick - Owner Fir Tree Stud, Training & Livery Yard, East Yorkshire. - www.firtreestud.co.uk
 
Jenna W with Shanty, East Yorkshire

"My 14.1hh Connemara mare had been showing signs of stiffness, shuffling in trot and almost 'bunny hopping' in canter, with little to no flexion in the hocks. She wasn't showing signs of lameness or pain, so my last hope to improve her movement was to find a 'back person'. Over time I had seen several different approaches to equine therapy and none of them seemed to be right for us, I was then recommended Liz Harris by a friend, and after looking at her website I was convinced to give it a go.

"My mare has had a troublesome past, and is rather temperamental to say the least, but Liz took it all in her stride and was very calm and soothing, and even gave her an apple, which meant she was definitely my mare's new best friend, of course the massage after treatment certainly helped as well!

"Liz immediately discovered that she had a badly tilted pelvis, neck pain and misalignments and soreness in the neck and hindquarters! After two visits the difference was unbelievable and has done what I thought wasn't possible. Her movement has improved so dramatically we have even taken her to her first elementary dressage test.

"I cannot recommend Liz enough, what she has done for my mare is nothing short of a miracle."

Jenna W with Shanty, East Yorkshire
 
Deborah Carr-Davidson - Foxholm Stud, Billingham

"I would just like to say how pleased I am with the treatment you gave to my young horse Brodie.

"We bought Brodie as an unbroken four year old, so we suspected that she did have problems, or put it down to her previous inexperienced young owner. However, when starting to bring her into work, whenever we put a roller on her, she would buck violently, like a rodeo horse even when tied up or in her stable. She was always very tense and nervous, especially going through door and gateways, but otherwise a very willing obedient horse. Yet she accepted a saddle laid on her back without a girth and rugs with cross straps without any problem. We persevered for many months very gently tightening the roller gradually and even leaving it on her for several hours in the stable and field, but once lunged or asked to move she would still tense up at some point and turn into 'something possessed' We had her checked by several vets, who were all unable to find any physical problem. We even had her spine X-rayed to check for kissing spines. Eventually, one vet found she was exceptionally sore around her sternum and recommended I find a McTimoney practitioner.

"After you diagnosed misaligned ribs and pelvis and subsequently treated Brodie, even after one treatment, she became a different horse, very affectionate and placid. She accepted a roller and then a saddle and turned out very easy to back. She appeared to be broader in her chest and stand more squarely. Instead of shuffling around she turned as a normal horse and also her feet appeared to grow less boxy. Most of all I appreciate how relaxed and 'happy' she is in her day to day life.

"I have subsequently recommended you to several of my clients who had problems with straightness and resistance and have always been pleased with the improvements in the horses after your treatment.

"Thank you Liz, for giving Brodie a good quality of life."

Deborah Carr-Davidson - Foxholm Stud, Billingham
 
Eleanor Mercer, of Eleanor Mercer Equestrian, Kirklington

"I always get Liz to come and check all the event horses' backs before the season starts and then ring her whenever I feel one of them have any problems with stiffness or inability to work correctly. I know that she will always come out promptly in an emergency and can usually sort out any problems straight away. In my line of work, teaching and schooling horses, I often come across horses that are reacting badly due to back pain and I am always happy to recommend that the owners ring Liz and see what she can do to alleviate the problem."

Eleanor Mercer, of Eleanor Mercer Equestrian, Kirklington
 
Jess Stockdale, Kirkby Fleetham

"I was having problems cantering my horse Maya on one particular rein which involved her bucking and breaking canter. I had seen a write up in the local paper for Liz and her treatment so I decided to give her a try. On Maya's first Session Liz spent a lot of time with Maya and explained to me her technique and what work she was going to do on her. Maya is a jumpy horse but seemed to relax around Liz and she enjoyed the relaxation part at the end of her session, so much she was practically asleep! I followed Liz after care instructions and after the first session I could already see a difference in the way Maya went and she was a lot calmer too. After a further treatments Maya has improved dramatically. I would recommend Liz if you are having problems with your horse as she has a good way with horses and her friendly reliable service is second to none."

Jess Stockdale, Kirkby Fleetham
 
Sara Campling, Darlington

"Liz came out to treat my mare Beau who is a 16.2hh Thoroughbred x Dales. I got in touch with Liz because Beau had been bucking a lot when I changed transitions, especially from trot to canter.

"After the 1st treatment Beau was less tense, then after the 3rd session Beau no longer bucked, she was less tense and much more relaxed. I would recommend Liz to anyone who has a horse as Beau was so much happier after Liz treated her, and it has made my riding experience much more enjoyable."

Sara Campling, Darlington
 
Elizabeth Harrington, Richmond

"My cob suffered a field injury resulting in an uneven gait and an unlevel pelvis. Liz Harris was recommended to me by a friend and successfully treated my cob over four visits. I followed her recommendations for schooling and stretches and within two months my cob was back in full work. I found Liz's approach professional and up to date. She has a natural empathy with horses which was a real help when she later treated my 18hh Clydesdale who weighs over a tonne. When he is uncomfortable he likes to throw his weight about!"

Elizabeth Harrington, Richmond
 
Lynn Henry, natural horsemanship teacher and author, Bramhope, Leeds

"Liz's approach to the horse is calm and considered and her treatment is very effective and gentle.

"I use Liz for all my horses and we work closely together on remedial cases, giving a comprehensive and holistic approach to the horse."

Lynn Henry, natural horsemanship teacher and author, Bramhope, Leeds - www.thinklikeapony.co.uk
 
Gill Mann, Skipwith, Selby

"I had been having problems with my horse, Max, a 12 year old IDxTB for a few weeks - his behaviour had changed from being very laid back to being excitable and strong and his general demeanour was grumpy - ears back and stroppy. The final straw came when I asked him to trot whilst out hacking with another horse and he put in a series of bucks which definitely meant "get off my back". Although I managed to stay on, I was very shaken.
He has had problems with his front legs over the last couple of years - a tendon injury and two pulled check ligaments, but he was coming back into work steadily after a month's rest when the problems occurred. I put his behaviour down to feeling well and frustration at having to go slowly, but the bucking was a different matter. I had all the usual checks done - back, teeth and saddle, but he was pronounced fine and the general consensus of opinion was that he was taking the mickey and that I needed to ride through the problem. Unfortunately, I had twisted my back in the final bucking episode and lost my nerve! A friend rode him in the school a few times and although he only bucked a couple of times, I had lost confidence in him and was ready to sell him. He did appear quite stiff and seemed to bunch his back. He was not forward going which he had always been.

"I saw an article about Liz in the "Northern Horse" free newspaper and visited her website. I emailed her and she said that his behaviour was typical of a horse in pain. She visited Max in May and found that he had problems in his atlas, withers, back and pelvis. She made some adjustments, which were very gentle and he did not mind at all. We arranged a follow-up visit two weeks later. I could not believe the difference in Max after his first treatment. He was a changed horse, really friendly and willing. He moved freely and showed no inclination to buck at all. He was ridden in the school and out on hacks with no problems at all.

"Liz was really pleased to hear of his progress and when she visited him again, found a big improvement. He did not need much treatment, but by the end of it he was standing with his head down, nodding off. He is now hacking out regularly, trotting and cantering and has even jumped a small crosspole.

"I am so pleased I asked Liz to see Max, it would have been very easy to dismiss his behaviour as naughty and sell him, when in fact she felt that he had been in discomfort for some time. It's great to have my horse back and I will definitely have him checked again in a few months time, to ensure that he does not relapse."

Gill Mann, Skipwith, Selby
 
Rebecca Smith, Burley Woodhead, Otley

"Liz first came to treat my horse following an accident in the trailer. We don't know what exactly happened in the trailer but afterwards Red could not tolerate even a saddle let alone a rider on his back - and if you tried his back would immediately go up and launch time was inevitable! There are no grey areas with this horse, quite simply he can either be ridden or he can't. The only thing which keeps him rideable has been the McTimoney, Reiki and massage treatments Liz has provided. His first treatment resulted in numerous spinal adjustments and a lengthy massage and Reiki session. 2 days later he could be ridden sweet as a nut! Red required regular treatment sessions to stabilise his skeletal system and with each visit improved immensely. It's worth mentioning that Red is a very sensitive soul to the point of actual overreaction and during adjustments has been known to try and rear or buck! Liz's determination, patience and sheer bravery are to be highly commended! I think we all feel how rewarding the process is as without it I cannot ride my horse. For the first time in the horses' life he has been in consistent training.

We recently encountered a set back - Red got cast in his stable and presented with the same problems, very sore tight back and unable to even be sat on. Liz came and 12 adjustments later, 2 days of rest and we were back in the saddle as though nothing has happened! Horse's aren't clever enough to kid us if they're not keen or happy to work there is a problem, and as owners we have to find out what it is. Now Red has regular maintenance sessions with Liz to keep everything just where it needs to be.

For us this treatment is simply magic and having tried countless other practitioners and therapies with an unrideable horse for 3 years we have finally, finally found the answer!"

Rebecca Smith, Burley Woodhead, Otley
 
Jackie Goulder of Comeby Collies, Pickering

"Liz has been a welcome visitor to our herding Dog days, and used her skills to great effect on dogs with various problems; one had fallen down a mine shaft and was very stiff, another had been trapped by the back as a puppy ... all working dogs are vulnerable to sprains and wrenches and I feel much happier to have them checked regularly!"

Jackie Goulder of Comeby Collies, Pickering
 
Julia Harvey, Appleton-le-Moors

"Digby is an 11 year old Golden Retriever, with multiple joint problems. These began with OCD in a shoulder and both elbows as a pup. Time has taken its toll on these joints and he now struggles with severe arthritis. In addition to his medications with Liz's help he is still pottering about on his walks and enthusiastic about most things."

Julia Harvey, Appleton-le-Moors
 
Liz & Mick Jay (Talraz bearded collies)

"We have made use of Liz's skills on several occasions now and feel confident that our dogs always benefit.

"We have six Bearded Collies, lively active dogs which need to be able to move freely not only for the show ring but also when at work in the sheep field or out enjoying the long walks which they love so much. Regular check up sessions keep everything in balance, and our dogs are often admired for their free flowing movement.

"Our 'golden oldie' is Jess, who at almost 14 years old perhaps appreciates her sessions with Liz more than anyone! We believe that her quality of life has been noticeably enhanced by regular treatments - thanks Liz!

"Interestingly Liz also checked out a very young litter of pups for us, and found even at that age there were a few who would benefit - what a great start in life for these lucky pups!"

Liz & Mick Jay (Talraz bearded collies) - www.spanglefish.com/Talraz
 
Sally Flatman, Brackenber, Cumbria

"Liz has been treating my horses for three years now and I am very pleased with the services she offers.

"I care for three horses, one nearly retired veteran (Old enough to know better horse), and one advanced endurance horse (Misunderstood horse) and one younger horse which may or may not have a career in endurance (Total liability horse).

"Liz is sympathetic to all their differing needs. Old enough to know better horse is quite stiff so needs gentle stretching and massage. Misunderstood horse is often grumpy about treatment and suspicious of strangers but Liz has worked hard to form a relationship based on trust with her. Total liability horse jumped on a car and fell off onto her head, fracturing part of her skull and Liz helped her feel better with treatment.

"My horses are all barefoot and Liz has worked with my barefoot trimmer to keep Misunderstood horse’s feet even and regular. A correct back equals good, symmetrical hoof wear. The trimmer would spot potential problems in her back by looking at her feet and Liz has put them right before problems could develop. When Misunderstood horse went stiff after a ride last year Liz discovered a problem with her pelvis, treated it and after that, no more after ride stiffness.

"As an endurance horse, Misunderstood horse would definitely recommend Liz to all her friends. She understands entirely what is demanded of a horse in an endurance ride and works hard by doing her bit to make sure they are up to it.

"Old enough to know better horse and Total liability horse would also like to point out that Liz is just as good at keeping those others who do not work quite as hard in good shape too!"

Sally Flatman, Brackenber, Cumbria
 
Kerry Dowson, Croft-on-Tees

"Jez has had severe knee problems for 2 years, and is on a huge range of supplements and painkillers to help. Our specialist has recommended a TPLO operation on both knees. We were sceptical about the treatment but following Liz's treatment Jez has been a different dog, more mobile and obviously in less pain. He's had no pain killers since and is running for the first time in a long time."

Kerry Dowson, Croft-on-Tees
 
Janet Walsh

"I recently started riding side saddle and obviously wanted to keep my horses back in the best possible physical condition, I use Liz and can't recommend her highly enough.

"I am sure Storm enjoys his treatments and I can really feel he benefits from them."

Janet Walsh
 
Heather Stevens, We Train Any Dog, North Yorkshire

"Liz's gentle, kind and patient manner, coupled with her extensive knowledge and expertise, put my Rottie on the road to recovery when he developed a back problem. I would recommend Liz to anyone who has an animal that needs some physical TLC."

Heather Stevens, We Train Any Dog, North Yorkshire - www.wetrainanydog.com
 
Melanie Watson, Owner, Instinctive horse training/Skidby Training and Livery yard

"I run a rehabilatation centre for troubled horses in East Yorkshire. Liz came to work on some of my horses last summer and I was very pleased with her approach. I have used quite a few practitioners and have never found one, until Liz, that I thought was really effective. Therefore I have recomended her to some of my clients for follow up work. I need a body worker/healer to work alongside me in this business because so many of my horses come in with very real pain through their backs etc. This must be adressed before I can start to retrain their way of going. The only draw back is that she is quite a long way away up in North Yorkshire! She needs to move nearer!"

Melanie Watson, Owner, Instinctive horse training/Skidby Training and Livery yard - www.instinctivehorsetraining.co.uk
 

 

McTimoney Animal Association
BCMA - The British Complementary Medicine Association
IEBWA - The International Equine Body Workers Association
HOME   |   ABOUT LIZ   |   ANIMAL THERAPIES   |   BLOG   |   TESTIMONIALS   |   CONTACT
Liz Harris Animal Therapist