At Honos Nutrition Co., we’re passionate about horses, science, and doing the best we can do for our horses, while empowering others to do the same. We're not alone in this goal, and we want to support like-minded individuals and businesses!
We could not be more excited to continue our Supporting Science-based Small Business series with Tiana of Elevate Equine Services, an Ontario-based business that's committed to using equine science to proactively maintain equine health & comfort!
How did your business get started?
Ever since I was a child, I dreamed of owning my own business and working for myself. I also had a passion for animals, though I wasn’t sure how that would translate into a career. After high school, I followed my love for horses, which led me to the University of Guelph, where I earned a Bachelor of Bio-Resource Management with a focus on Equine Management.
Through this program, I was introduced to the world of equine science, a field I hadn’t been exposed to growing up in what I would call a “school kid, sterile environment.” It was here that I realized how much potential there is for growth in the equine industry, especially in bridging the gap between science and the everyday horse owner. I saw a clear need to improve the care of horses by making scientific knowledge more accessible to those who care for them.
After university, I worked as an equine vet assistant, where I saw a wide range of horses daily. It was during this time that I noticed significant gaps in equine care, particularly in the area of preventative health. I realized that much of the more invasive treatments provided, while necessary, could have been avoided if horse owners were more in tune with their horses’ bodies and helped them move more efficiently. This insight led me to pursue certification in Equine Bodywork through the Equinology program, which is recognized by various veterinary associations worldwide.
After over a year of studying and completing my externship, I am proud to be a certified Level One Equinology Equine Body Worker. I will be officially launching my business in January 2025, and I am excited to help horses feel their best and empower their caretakers to better understand their horses’ bodies.
Why are science-based practices important to you?
During my time at the University of Guelph, I realized how ingrained tradition is in the equine industry. Many caretakers follow established practices simply because “that’s the way it’s always been done.” This isn’t usually due to a lack of care for the horses, but rather a gap in education.
With my degree, I’m able to read, interpret, and “translate” scientific research into accessible language. My goal is to share this knowledge with horse owners, helping them provide the best possible care—guided by science, not tradition.
How have horses shaped your love for science?
If it weren’t for horses, I’m not sure how deep my interest in science would have gone. There’s something fascinating about how all the different parts of the body and various systems work together, which truly captures my attention. I enjoy learning about how the equine body has evolved to become the unique, strong, and athletic creature it is today—capable of so much of what we ask of them.
Tell us about the products/services you currently offer!
I am currently offering new client sessions, which include both a static and dynamic assessment of your horse.
During this session, we evaluate the horse’s body as a whole, identifying areas that may need improvement. This is followed by a full-body massage, incorporating stretches and range-of-motion exercises based on the findings. At the end of the session, clients receive a detailed report of the findings, along with follow-up exercises for owners to continue between sessions.
After the initial session, clients can book returning client appointments, where we build on the findings from the first assessment and address any new issues that arise. A full report and follow-up exercises are also provided after each returning session.
What advice would you give your younger, horsey self?
You don’t need to be the best rider in the ring, have the newest helmet or jump as high as everyone else to be a “true” horse girl.
What has been the most rewarding part of starting your business?
Firstly, having the opportunity to work on school horses throughout my externship for free—something I plan to continue offering at no charge to school horses, trail horses, therapy horses, and other unsung heroes who are the backbone of our industry.
Secondly, it’s incredibly rewarding to see horses begin to associate me with relaxation and well-being, even before I’ve touched them. They start to enter what I call “the zone,” anticipating the relief and comfort that’s coming.
And finally, turning my dream into a reality has been a profound experience. It’s not just about building a business—it’s about making my younger, horse-obsessed self proud.
Thank you so much Tiana! We're so excited about the impact your services and dedication can have on the lives of horses and those who love them! Make sure to check out @elevateequineservices on Instagram, and connect with her to learn more about proactive care for your horse!
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