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Join us at the AAETT Annual Conference and become a part of the driving force that shapes the future of Equine Care, Veterinary, Farrier, and Therapy Teams. 

Prepare for an immersive experience as we curate a diverse range of educational presentations, each delivered by esteemed experts at the forefront of their respective fields. These sessions promise to be a deep dive into the latest research, advancements, and best practices, providing attendees with invaluable insights and knowledge to elevate their professional journey.

Engage in spirited discussions and collaborative forums, where you'll have the opportunity to share your insights, learn from peers, and collectively steer the industry's future direction.

Our commitment to hands-on learning is unwavering, and this year's conference is no exception. Explore cutting-edge techniques and innovations firsthand through our interactive wet labs. These immersive sessions offer a unique chance to hone your skills, experiment with new approaches, and gain practical experience that can be immediately applied in your profession.

In addition to the enriching educational content, our conference is a vibrant hub of industry networking and innovation. Connect with fellow professionals, forge new partnerships, and discover the latest products and services offered by our esteemed vendors and sponsors. These relationships and resources will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in your professional journey.

Together, we'll elevate our industry to new heights and embark on a journey of continuous learning and growth. This is an event you won't want to miss – your future success awaits!

 

** NEW FOR 2024 - Horse Owner tracks for Saturday June 29th! Join us to explore different therapeutic modalities, develop a deeper understanding of dentistry and hoof care (and how they affect your horse’s body), and better understand how YOU as the owner are the most critical part of your horse’s Care Team!

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With the move to Asbury University for the host location, the 2024 Conference will be able to offer on-site lodging at a very reasonable rate.  Note that Asbury is a dry campus with a no smoking/tobacco policy.  Rates start at $26 per night.  Space is limited.  Details in the Whova App as part of your registration process.  Reservations must be made with your conference registration.

 

Conference Lodging is also available at Comfort Suites Keeneland, about 25 mins from campus. 

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A Whole day of Premium Wet Labs! 

The Educational Opportunities abound this year, with an expanded conference and an entire day of Premium (additional cost) wet labs.

Additionally, some of our presenters will be offering courses running adjacent to the conference to maximize your travel budget.  Details coming soon!

Available classes include:

Assessment, Critical Thinking, & Developing Multi-Modality Plans

with Christina Naas, Rhonda Martin, & Michele Haman 

of Equine Kneads, Equine Mechanix, & Equi-librium Therapy, LLC

Intro to Connective Tissue

with Theresa Mueller of HEAL

Equine Cupping

with Debra Redman of Equine Cupping USA

Limb Length Disparity

with Esco Buff of Esco's Buff's Professional Farrier Service, LLC

Understanding Connection from Mouth to Body

with Barbara Parks & Suzzi Peeler

of Imagine Equine Services & Suzzi Peeler Equine Services, LLC

2024 Annual Conference Presenters

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Dr. Tracy Turner, DVM, MS, DACVS, DACVSMR

Dr. Tracy Turner owner of Turner Equine Sports Medicine and Surgery in Stillwater, Minn., is the vice president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP). He was installed during the November 21st President’s Luncheon at the AAEP’s 68th Annual Convention in San Antonio, Texas, and will assume the role of AAEP president in 2025.

Dr. Turner founded his practice in 2016 and concentrates exclusively on equine sports medicine, lameness and surgery. He previously spent 12 years with Anoka Equine Veterinary Services in Elk River, Minn., and served on the faculties at the University of Illinois, University of Florida and University of Minnesota. He received his veterinary degree from Colorado State University in 1978.

Beyond his daily practice, Dr. Turner is an Equitarian Initiative volunteer, delivering medical care to working equids and education to students and caretakers in the developing world. He serves as an Examining Veterinarian for Fédération Equestre Internationale for show jumping and has consulted in the past for U.S. Equestrian Federation and USDA APHIS Horse Protection Program for Tennessee Walking Horse welfare.

“AAEP has not only been an avenue to give back to an industry that has given much to me, but it is also an organization that positively impacts all aspects of the equine industry worldwide. It is an organization that one can go to meet, collaborate and exchange ideas with other practitioners that share the same passion: the horse.”

An AAEP member since 1986, Dr. Turner previously served on the board of directors from 2017–2019; as chair of the Farrier Liaison Committee; and as member of the Educational Programs and Student Relations committees as well as the Foundation Advisory Council. He currently chairs the Equine Disease Communication Center Advisory Committee. Dr. Turner was instrumental in creating the AAEP student chapter veterinary farrier short courses and laboratories, and he served as the faculty advisor for the AAEP student chapter at the University of Minnesota for many years.

In addition, Dr. Turner has served on the Minnesota Horse Council board of directors since 2002, including several terms as president, and currently chairs the Legislative and Welfare committees. He is also a past president of the Minnesota Association of Equine Practitioners and received induction into the International Equine Veterinarian Hall of Fame in 2004 for his contributions to the knowledge and recognition of proper hoof care for horses. Dr. Turner has presented frequently at AAEP continuing education meetings, and he has published numerous book chapters and peer-reviewed articles.

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Cheryl L. Eriksen

a distinguished Blogger, horse midwife, and the talented author behind two compelling books,the award-winning memoir, 'Follow Me, Friend’ and 'I've Never Been to Me.' These captivating reads delve into purpose and the profound horse-human connection. Cheryl holds a MSW from Western Michigan University and formerly served as an equine assisted therapy facilitator.

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Kirstie Wachholtz

ranches with her husband in Northwestern Wyoming where they raise American Brabant draft horses and Gelbvieh Cattle. With a background in cutting horses and three-day eventing she has partnered with her husband and together they run 4Up Equine Services. Her husband focuses on farrier work while she offers PEMF, multiple massage techniques, Rapid Release Therapy, and Biofeedback. Together they work on rehabilitation and prevention.

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Lisa Miksis

of Respond Systems will be presenting about therapeutic laser. She will discuss the Science & Mechanisms of Action, as well as Equine Case Discussions & Best Practices.
Lisa graduated from Boston College with a degree in Biological Sciences. After building her skills in marketing, operations and leadership, she joined Respond Systems in 2015 where she currently holds the role of President. Lisa leads the organization in all aspects, positioning the 40-year old organization as a leader in the veterinary laser and PEMF therapy space. She pushes forth the mission of being at the forefront of laser and PEMF innovation, and puts education, research and development at the top of the list. Lisa has lead numerous webinars and training sessions on the best use practices of laser and PEMF and the science behind them.

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Rev. Esco Buff, PhD, APF-I, CF

Esco is an American Farriers Association (AFA) Certified Farrier (CF), and International Association of Professional Farriers (IAPF) Accredited Professional Farrier (APF) with an endorsement, A NYS Gaming Commission Licensed Farrier, a member of the International Horseshoeing Hall of Fame, a Society Only Member of the American College of Veterinary Radiology (ACVR), and the Large Animal Diagnostic Imaging Society (LADIS).
Esco started in the farrier industry trimming and shoeing horses in 1974.  Esco was introduced to blacksmithing and farrier work through his membership and association with the Boy Scouts of American while a staff member of Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico.  Esco was the youngest Scout Master in New York State.  Esco is a graduate of New Mexico State Farrier School under Mogan I, “Razz” Rasmussen (1974) and the Illinois State Horseshoeing School.  Esco is an Eagle Scout with palms, an Ordained Minister, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, and a Doctorate in Business Administration.
Esco is dedicated to excellence in horse foot care.  He has a strong interest in working with all lameness cases including laminitic (foundered) horses as well as limb length disparity horses.  Through applying the principles of hoof balance, biomechanics, and holistic body balance, Esco creates sound horses with healthy functioning feet.
Esco also works on other farm animals (pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, chicken…) and exotic animals (hedgehogs, camels, giraffes, zebras, onagers, elephants…).

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Janice Lee Holland, PhD

From a very young age Dr. Janice Holland was passionate about horses. Growing up in centralPennsylvania she took advantage of any opportunity to ride and be around horses, and this led her topursue a bachelor’s degree in animal production at the Pennsylvania State University, where she alsorode on their Intercollegiate Hunt Seat Team. While at Penn State Janice served as a teaching and research assistant and based on these experiences, she decided to attend Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and work on a Master of Science and doctorate in Animal Science with an Equineemphasis. Janice’s research interests at Virginia Tech focused on nutrition and behavior, and she also assisted with projects on exercise physiology and reproduction. During her time at Virginia Tech, shelived in both Blacksburg and Middleburg, and developed an appreciation for both the sport horse and racing industries. Through her experiences questions arose on how to help a horse recover from injury and perform their best, and an interest in modalities was born. Janice owned two Thoroughbreds, one aretired race horse, who benefitted from the application of modalities throughout their lifetimes, and both horses served to train countless students on correct application of massage, e-stim, ultrasound, PEMF, and laser.Since graduating from Virginia Tech Janice has held positions as a faculty member in equine studies at several colleges and is currently Associate Professor and Director of Equine Studies at Wilson College in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. She teaches courses in nutrition, behavior, management, and exercise physiology. She is a frequent writer for The Horse magazine. In addition to her responsibilities as a Board member for AAETT, Janice has served on the Board of the Kentucky Horse Council and the National Association of Equine Affiliated Academics. In addition, she has served and chaired multiple committeesfor the Equine Science Society.Janice currently lives in Chambersburg with her husband and multiple cats, with hopes of adding a new horse to the mix in the near future. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking, reading, photography, crafting, and watching a variety of sports with her family.

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Dr. Barbara Parks, PT, DPT, CERP

is a physical therapist for horse and rider based in the Nashville, TN area. Barbara received her doctorate in physical therapy from Belmont University and her Certified Equine Rehabilitation Practitioner credentials from UT-Knoxville. She is also a PATH Intl. certified therapeutic riding instructor and spent some time teaching adaptive riding lessons prior to becoming a physical therapist. Barbara has a passion for positive reinforcement training and using clicker training in rehabilitative exercise and has pursued continuing education in equine bodywork, barefoot hoofcare and composite shoeing, equine nutrition, and equine behavior and learning theory in order to provide a whole-horse approach to rehab and injury prevention. She lives on a small farm with her husband, 4 horses, 4 cats, 2 dogs, and some chickens.

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Christine Walker, LMT

NBCAAM Certified Equine Massage Therapist 
School of Applied Integrative Therapies Assistant Director
Christine holds a B.A. in Equine Business from Midway University (2000), Medical Massage Certification from Blue Heron Academy of Healing Arts (2007), Equine Bodyworker Certificate from the School of Applied Integrative Therapy (2020), and NBCAAM Certified Equine Bodyworker (2022).  In 2023 she will complete her certification in Equine Craniosacral training (levels 1-3) with EQtherapeutics, in Langley, BC.
Christine has a thriving equine and human bodywork practice, in Omaha, NE,  specializing in the equine/human athlete connection.  Her focus on client centered care has been her foundation for equine and human bodywork practices. 

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Michele Haman

BS Equine Therapy, BS Equine Science, & BA Equine Management, CPA, Guest Lecturer, Educator
Michele owns and manages Equi-librium Therapy, LLC, based in Versailles, KY and Wellington, FL. With her extensive education, over 30 years of horse experience, and more than 15 years as an equine therapeutic professional, Michele loves to help riders / trainers / owners “put the pieces together” whether their horse is having an issue, to help them develop performance horses, or simply to maintain their horses’ comfort as long as possible. For her every animal deserves the best, regardless of whether it’s a high-performance athlete, a pasture companion, or the family pet. She thrives on working with each horse's entire care team to develop the most supportive holistic plan possible. She is passionate about helping animals feel and perform their best, and strives to grow and share her knowledge every day. In addition to her busy daily work schedule and supporting the entire Equi-librium team, Michele also serves on the Equine Advisory Board for Pulse PEMF. As Vice President and a Board Member for AAETT, Michele provides guidance, enthusiasm, and extensive industry experience to help achieve the organization’s mission of education and credentialing.

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Gabriele Gross, PhD., DVM

(Germany) will discuss current Legal & Regulatory concerns for Equine Therapists & Technicians, and Safe Language & Legal Liability.
Qualifications:
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M. from Vet. Univ. of Hannover,
Germany)
Post-Graduate Research Degree in Pharmacology (Germany)
Equine Nutritionist & Formulator
Lifelong Equestrian
Dr. Gross obtained her Veterinary license in Germany in 1987 at the
Veterinary University of Hannover, followed by two years of research,
resulting in a PhD. In 1989. Fast forward to today, designing her own
approach in “Horse Health Coaching”, Dr. Gross has investigated legal
implications and related law for innovative solutions for the past eight
years. Retired from Equine Veterinary practice since the mid 90ies, Dr.
Gross is an instructor for Equine professionals. Her areas of interest
are holistic Equine health, nutrition and behavior. Dr. Gross also works
as an independent B2B consultant and supplement formulator for the
Equine industry. She made Equine Nutrition a focus alongside her
Veterinary career. Her connection with horses started in her early
youth. “Growing up in Germany meant you had to become good at many years
of dressage if you want to be a good jumper. Many years later, from
2004-2008, Dr. Gross trained and owned a California Thoroughbred Racing
stable. “A good story for a fireside chat, an impactful time, and a good
learning experience” she comments.

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Theresa Mueller

of HEAL will be presenting on Equine Lymphatic Therapy! Not only will she offer presentations discussing specifics of lymphatic anatomy & physiology, and lymphedema therapeutic techniques, but she will also be one of our Premium Wet Lab Experience educators. Her Premium Wet Lab course will include a Certificate of Completion (following successful examination), approved by NCBTMB and pending approval by NBCAAM. Check out our post from earlier today to see all of the Premium Wet Lab Experiences and learn how to register for those.
Following her own experience with not knowing how to help her husband's horse, and an opportunity to change careers, Theresa Mueller gravitated toward massage. Her fascination with touch and how it impacts our well-being brought her to the path of continuously learning. She has dedicated her life to obtaining and providing quality education about equine lymphatics. After obtaining her National Certification as a Massage Therapist, she has continued her education, achieving further qualifications as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, a Certified Equine Sports Massage Therapist, and the FIRST American Certified Equine Lymphedema Therapist trained at the Hannover Veterinary School in Hannover, Germany.
Theresa quickly realized that there was a shortage of skilled equine professionals knowledgeable in equine lymphatics, and that hasn't really changed over the years. This prompted her to develop the first equine lymphatic learning portal for equine professionals to acquire the fundamentals of the equine lymph system. It provides knowledge and hands-on skills to manage equine lymphatic issues such as chronic swelling disorders. It is designed to make lymphatic education accessible, doable, and affordable, no matter where you are in the globe! The equine lymphatic therapist can easily combine these hands-on skills into their current modalities. When a practitioner can educate and provide their hands-on skills to help owners struggling to understand and manage their horse's lymphatic issues, now that is changing lives!
Learn more about Theresa's Holistic Equine Academy of Lymphedema program at www.healequine.com/lymphatic-curriculum.

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Rhonda Martin, BS Zoology, Anatomy-Physiology, CESMT, Educator, Clinician

Rhonda owns and operates Equine Mechanix near Kansas City, Missouri. She is an equine performance consultant with 30+ years of experience in massage-based integrated bodywork, PEMF, saddle fit, custom pads and saddles, horsemanship clinics and speaking engagements. Rhonda is currently a Board Member of AAETT and serves on the Equine Advisory Board for Pulse PEMF. Her passion is to better understand the horse and utilize many modalities teaming up with equine professionals (veterinarians, farriers) to create a team approach of care. Her focus is to help horse owners and trainers learn how to better understand the needs of their horses. Rhonda is a lifelong competitor, clinician and educator. She has appeared in equine programming, seminars and as a guest speaker for national organizations such as Path International, Equifest of Kansas, 4H, & Pulse PEMF. Competitively she has won numerous regional and world championships in endurance, competitive trail, reining and western dressage.

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Wendy Murdoch

is an internationally recognized equestrian instructorand clinician, author of several books and creator of the SURE FOOTEquine Stability Program® . She is one of the most skillful teachersever encountered in any equestrian discipline. SURE FOOT isrevolutionizing the horse world by offering the horse a choice to calmhis nervous system, ground, and improve proprioception. SURE FOOTEquine Pads also aid in training and rehabilitation from illness or injury.When we give the horse a voice through the use of SURE FOOT Padshe finds confidence and safety with humans.

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Suzzi Peeler

is a lifelong lover of horses. While searching for more positive, healthy alternatives/ways to care for her own horses in 2014, Suzzi discovered Neuromuscular Dentistry and was enamored with it. She immediately began her studies and since then through her school has become a certified Neuromuscular Dentist. Suzzi thoroughly enjoys educating about the importance of dentition and the affect it has on the whole body. In 2018, she was given the opportunity to present Neuromuscular Dentistry for the Equine at the International College of Craniomandibular Orthopedics’ (ICCMO) national conference.
Suzzi lives on a farm in Tennessee with her husband, Jared, and their two sons. She runs and operates her dentistry business (Suzzi Peeler Equine Services, LLC) and works closely with many veterinarians. She feels that having a good relationship with veterinarians is imperative so that horses get the best care possible. Suzzi continues to immerse herself in studying the art and science that Neuromuscular Dentistry encompasses. She focuses her passion on increasing research in her field by specializing in the study of how the teeth affect proprioception, mobility, performance, and overall health of the horse.

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Christina Naas

(formerly Kupper) of Equine Kneads in Colorado & Wisconsin will be teaching extensively on cold therapies (including cryotherapy), combining modalities safely and effectively, and coaching attendees to develop their businesses to support their own needs and grow at a sustainable pace.
* Cold Therapy: From Cold Hosing to CryoTherapy, Including a (Literally) Wet Lab
* Effectively Combining Modalities: Who, What, When, Where, Why, & How
* Business Development & Growth
* Business Best Practices Panel
Christina has worked with many different programs to expand her education. She also is often a guest instructor at various universities and clinics in teaching pre-vet students, vet students, owners, trainers and riders on the foundations of equine bodywork. In addition, she continues to work directly with veterinarians on developing protocols, safety and education in the fields of cryotherapy and PEMF.
Her specialties are in Neuromuscular Therapy, Craniosacral Therapy, Cryotherapy and Therapeutic Bodywork. While Christina holds many certifications in various modalities and techniques, these are her primary focus.
Her natural intuition for understanding and interpreting energy, biomechanics and the body, gives her an added edge as an equine bodyworker.
Prior to entering the field of massage and bodywork, Christina was a business consultant and analyst. She has owned and sold 3 previous businesses and currently coaches and mentors equine bodyworkers in the business aspects of the equine industry. She teaches bodyworkers how to successfully enter the field, expand their business, develop a niche and how to make their business their own, including developing boundaries, client communication, and much more.
Christina’s certifications are in NMT, CST, MFR, Applied Kinesiology, PEMF therapy, Cryotherapy and Kinesio-taping.

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Debra Redman

Debra will  explore the use of popular cupping systems, discuss the importance of understanding anatomy and physiology when applying cupping, list the contraindications and general conditions that respond well to cupping, how to integrate equine cupping with other modalities, and give some examples of changes in horses that have happened with cupping. She will offer classroom presentations, and also wet lab demonstrations through the Conference weekend.
Debra Redman, Licensed Medical Massage Therapist for humans for 25 years, has magic in her hands, a good biomechanics assessment eye, and thousands of dollars invested in continuing education with equine care professionals from all over the world for the last ten years. To name a few, she can include certificates of completion with Dr. Vibeke Elkbrond, DVM (Equine Anatomy Trains), Dr. Kris De Ceulaer, DVM Belgium (Visceral Manipulation), Dr. Juliane Waas, DVM Denmark (Kerry Ridgway Acupressure), Theresa Mueller, HEAL (Equine Manual Lymph Drainage), Tami Elkayam (Tensegrity Balancing), and Level 1 Sure Foot Pads coursework with Wendy Murdoch. Debra integrates all of this continuing education into her core work with myofascial release, energy modalities, craniosacral therapy technique, and intuition. In 2020, Debra imported the first equine cupping machine into the United States. She is working to make her “Introduction to Equine Cupping” course approved by NBCAAM. In 2021, Debra personally experienced the power of PEMF therapy for herself and discovered how wrong she’s been all these years about the use of this modality with horses and humans. Debra is the Conference Coordinator for the American Association of Equine Therapists and Technicians (AAETT) 2023 Conference at Midway University, Midway, KY, May 19 - 21, 2023.

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