Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you are curious about what natural animal therapy involves, wondering if your dog or horse could benefit from a session, or looking to join one of Minda's workshops. You will find answers here.
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If your question is not covered, get in touch via the Contact page and Minda will get back to you personally.
About Woof & Hoof
What is Woof & Hoof?
Woof & Hoof is a natural therapy practice specialising in canine and equine wellness. Founded by Minda Blake, Woof & Hoof offers myofunctional therapy, cranial sacral therapy, and energy healing for dogs and horses, with a focus on proactive, preventative care and whole-animal wellbeing. Minda provides in-home consultations across the Macedon Ranges, Central Victoria, and Northern Melbourne.
Who is Minda Blake?
Minda Blake is the founder of Woof & Hoof and has spent over 35 years studying canine and equine biomechanics. She holds a Diploma in Remedial and Sports Massage Therapy, a Certificate in Canine and Equine Myofunctional Therapy, Canine and Equine Cranial Sacral Therapy Level 6, and a Certificate in Remedial Rehabilitation. She volunteers her services to animals in rehabilitation through Project Hope Horse Welfare Victoria.
What areas do you service?
Minda services the Macedon Ranges, Central Victoria, and Northern Melbourne, including Woodend, Kyneton, Gisborne, Lancefield, Romsey, Daylesford, Trentham, and surrounding towns. Not sure if she covers your area? Get in touch via the Contact page.
Are natural therapies a substitute for veterinary care?
No. Myofunctional therapy and cranial sacral therapy are complementary, not a replacement for veterinary care. Minda works alongside vets to support post-surgery recovery, soft tissue rehabilitation, and long-term wellness, and Minda is always happy to liaise with your existing vet as part of your animal's care plan.
Therapy Services
What is myofunctional therapy for animals?
Myofunctional therapy is a form of remedial massage that works on the soft tissue (muscles, tendons, and ligaments) to improve function, mobility, and performance. It is used to prevent injury as part of a regular maintenance routine, and to assist with recovery from soft tissue injuries and post-surgery rehabilitation.
What is cranial sacral therapy for dogs and horses?
Cranial sacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive technique that works with the body's own rhythm to release tension, improve nervous system function, and support healing. It is particularly beneficial for animals managing pain, recovering from trauma, or carrying long-term physical or emotional stress.
What is energy healing for animals?
Energy healing works with the energetic body of your animal to support emotional balance, reduce stress, and promote overall wellbeing. It is a gentle, intuitive practice that complements the physical therapies Minda offers, and is particularly helpful for animals experiencing anxiety, grief, or emotional trauma.
What conditions can natural therapy help with?
Woof & Hoof therapies can assist with a wide range of conditions including arthritis, mobility issues, post-surgery rehabilitation, soft tissue injuries, muscle tension, pain management, anxiety, emotional trauma, and general maintenance for active or ageing animals.
How do I know if my dog or horse could benefit from a session?
If your animal is showing signs of stiffness, reluctance to move, changes in gait, sensitivity to touch, reduced performance, or behavioural changes, a session with Minda could help. Natural therapies are also beneficial as part of a regular preventative care routine, even for healthy, active animals.
What happens in a consultation?
Each session begins with a conversation about your animal's health history, lifestyle, and any concerns you have. Minda then conducts a musculoskeletal function assessment and gait analysis before developing a tailored treatment plan. All sessions are conducted at your property, in an environment your animal knows and feels comfortable in.
How long does a session take?
Session length varies depending on the animal and the treatment plan. Minda will be able to give you a clearer idea when you make your booking. Get in touch via the Contact page to discuss your animal's needs.
How often should my animal have a session?
This depends on your animal's condition, age, and goals. Some animals benefit from regular maintenance sessions every four to six weeks, while others may require more intensive support during rehabilitation. Minda will discuss a recommended schedule with you after the initial assessment.
Do you work with both dogs and horses?
Yes. Woof & Hoof offers therapy for both dogs and horses. Whether you have an ageing family dog, a working horse, or a competition animal, Minda tailors each session to the individual animal's needs.
What is the difference between animal physiotherapy and myofunctional therapy?
Animal physiotherapy is a regulated profession, typically performed by qualified veterinary physiotherapists, and often involves clinical settings, specialised equipment, and prescribed rehabilitation programs. Myofunctional therapy is a hands-on soft tissue modality: remedial massage applied to muscles, tendons, and ligaments, and is a complementary practice rather than a clinical one. Both can play a role in your animal's care. Minda works alongside vets and physiotherapists rather than in place of them.
Is animal energy healing real? Does it actually work?
It is a fair question, and one Minda is comfortable answering honestly. Energy healing is not a substitute for veterinary care, and Minda does not claim otherwise. What she does find, consistently, is that animals respond, often noticeably, to this kind of gentle, intentional work. Whether you approach it from a scientific or a more intuitive angle, the outcomes speak for themselves: calmer animals, reduced tension, and owners who notice real shifts in their animal's behaviour and wellbeing. The best way to form your own view is to try a session.
Bookings & Practicalities
How do I book a consultation?
You can get in touch via the Contact page on the website, by emailing minda@woofandhoof.com.au, or by calling 0409 409 119. Minda will get back to you to discuss your animal's needs and arrange a suitable time.
Do you come to me?
Yes. All consultations are in-home, meaning Minda comes to your property. This is intentional: animals respond best in familiar surroundings, and it means there is no added stress of travel or an unfamiliar environment for your animal.
What should I have ready before Minda arrives?
Have a safe, reasonably quiet space available where Minda can work with your animal. For horses, a stable or yard is ideal. It helps to have any relevant vet records or notes on hand, and to have thought about any specific concerns or recent changes in your animal's behaviour or movement.
Workshops
What workshops does Woof & Hoof offer?
Woof & Hoof offers small, hands-on workshops where you can learn myofunctional therapy, cranial sacral techniques, and energy healing to apply to your own dog or horse. Workshops are kept small and intentional, and are held across the Macedon Ranges and Central Victoria. Current workshops are listed on the Workshops page.
Who are the workshops for?
The workshops are for anyone who wants to deepen their connection with their animal and learn practical, evidence-informed techniques to support their health and wellbeing. No prior experience is required, just an open mind and a genuine love of animals.
Can I learn animal massage as a hobby, not a career?
Absolutely. Woof & Hoof workshops are not just for people pursuing a professional path. They are for anyone who wants to learn practical, hands-on skills to support their own animal's health and deepen their connection. No qualifications or prior experience needed.
Do I need to bring my animal to the workshop?
This depends on the specific workshop. Some are hands-on with animals present, while others are more educational. Check the details on the individual workshop listing, or get in touch if you are unsure.
How many people are in each workshop?
Workshops are kept intentionally small so that every participant gets quality time, personal guidance from Minda, and a genuinely connected experience. Numbers vary by workshop, so check the listing for capacity details.
Where are the workshops held?
Workshops are held across various locations in the Macedon Ranges and Central Victoria. Each listing includes the specific date and location as a ticket option, so you can choose the session that suits you best.
How do I book a workshop?
All workshops are listed on the Workshops page of the website, where you can view available dates and locations and purchase tickets directly online.
What is your cancellation policy for workshops?
Please refer to the individual workshop listing for cancellation and refund details. If you have questions or need to discuss your booking, get in touch via minda@woofandhoof.com.au.
Can I attend a workshop even if I don't have a horse or dog?
Absolutely. If you are curious about animal therapy, working in an animal-related field, or simply passionate about animal wellbeing, you are very welcome. Get in touch if you have any questions about whether a particular workshop is right for you.
I want to do something meaningful with my horse: are there workshops for that?
Yes, and this is exactly the kind of question Woof & Hoof workshops are designed for. Minda's workshops are about more than technique. They are about building a conscious, connected relationship with your animal through touch, awareness, and presence. Check the Workshops page for what is coming up.
General Enquiries
Is there an animal massage therapist near Woodend?
Yes. Minda Blake from Woof & Hoof offers in-home animal therapy across Woodend, Kyneton, Gisborne, Lancefield, Romsey, and the wider Macedon Ranges. She comes to your property, so there is no need to travel.
Is there someone who does energy healing for horses near me?
Minda Blake at Woof & Hoof offers energy healing for horses across the Macedon Ranges, Central Victoria, and Northern Melbourne. All sessions are conducted at your property. Get in touch via the Contact page to discuss your horse's needs.
Are there horse massage workshops near Melbourne?
Yes. Woof & Hoof runs small, hands-on workshops in the Macedon Ranges and Central Victoria, close enough to Melbourne to be worth the drive, and in a beautiful regional setting. Check the Workshops page for upcoming dates and locations.
Can massage help my arthritic dog?
Yes, myofunctional therapy can be very effective for dogs with arthritis, helping to ease muscle tension, improve mobility, and reduce pain. Minda works alongside your vet to ensure treatment is safe and appropriate for your dog's specific condition and stage of arthritis.
My horse is stiff after competition: can natural therapy help?
Absolutely. Myofunctional therapy and cranial sacral therapy are particularly well suited to horses in regular work, helping to relieve muscle tension, restore range of movement, and support faster recovery. Minda offers regular maintenance sessions for sport and competition horses across the Macedon Ranges and Central Victoria.
My dog is limping but the vet can't find anything wrong. Could therapy help?
This is actually a common situation and one where natural therapy can be really useful. Soft tissue issues like tension, restriction, or subtle muscular imbalances don't always show up in standard veterinary assessments, but they can significantly affect the way an animal moves and feels. Minda conducts a thorough musculoskeletal and gait assessment and can often identify and address the underlying issue, and she is always happy to work alongside your vet.
My horse is girthy and difficult to saddle: is that a physical issue?
Girthing issues are very often a sign of physical discomfort, particularly tension or pain in the muscles around the back, ribcage, and shoulders. It is worth having Minda assess your horse before assuming it is a behavioural problem. In many cases, targeted soft tissue therapy makes a significant difference.
Can massage help a dog recovering from surgery?
Yes. Myofunctional therapy is an excellent complement to post-surgical recovery, helping to reduce muscle tension, support circulation, manage scar tissue, and improve mobility during rehabilitation. Minda works alongside your vet and surgeon to ensure treatment is appropriate for your dog's specific procedure and recovery stage.
My older horse is losing muscle along his topline: can natural therapy help?
Topline muscle loss in older horses is often related to a combination of factors including age, workload, nutrition, and underlying physical discomfort that affects the way they carry themselves. Myofunctional therapy can help address soft tissue tension and improve the way your horse moves and uses his body. Minda will assess your horse holistically and discuss what she finds.
Can cranial sacral therapy help a dog with anxiety or fear?
Yes. Cranial sacral therapy is particularly well suited to animals carrying emotional stress, anxiety, or fear responses. It works gently with the nervous system to promote a sense of calm and safety. Many owners notice a meaningful shift in their animal's demeanour after even a single session.