Welcome to NWSAM
The Leader in Education for Careers in Animal Massage and Animal Acupressure since 2001
Our Hybrid Learning Programs combine online education with hands-on practical training and valuable case study experience to prepare you for a successful career in the growing animal health-care industry. NWSAM programs lead to certification that meets requirements for even the most stringent state requirements, including Washington State.
Our programs are Approved by NBCAAM, NCBTMB as well as the Washington State Department of Health and Board of Massage. NWSAM was the first school to be recognized in Washington State and by NCBTMB for animal massage training. We were one of the first schools to offer hybrid training programs and are commited to being innovators in the field of animal therapy.
In addition to professional certification, we offer continuing education courses and a wide range of workshops for professional, career-seekers and animal lovers alike. Our students and graduates travel from all over the globe to learn from our internationally recognized instructors.
Visit our Class Schedule to see a chronological list of all currently scheduled classes.
Enjoy Introductory classes online to get familiar with the different therapies taught at NWSAM.
Our Course Catalog allows you to search for just the classes you are interested in by:
- Track (Large Animal or Small Animal )
- Class Type (Online Courses, Practicals or Workshops)
- Or Modality (Massage, Acupressure, or Continuing Education).
THREE UNIQUE LEVELS OF ANIMAL MASSAGE CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS
Our Foundation Level, Performance Level and Rehabilitation Level Massage programs each focus on specific skill sets to prepare you to work with animals in all stages and ages of their lives. Upon enrollment, you will be assigned an online instructor to assist you in your studies and prepare you for the hands-on training. Study from the comfort of home at your own pace and then select from among several campuses to complete the hands-on portion of your training. You will feel supported throughout your learning with NWSAM, with over 20 years experience teaching courses in 6 countries and well-respected instructors with over 60 years of professional experience combined.
ANIMAL ACUPRESSURE FOUNDATION CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Our Equine Acupressure and Canine Acupressure programs have been developed and are taught by some of the most recognized names in the industry. Kim Bauer has taught animal acupressure worldwide and studied under such experts as Diana Thompson and Dr. Kerry Ridgway. Kim created our curriculum with help from Dr. Michael Salewski DVM, a gifted TCM veterinarian and co-author of the Clinical Handbook of Chinese Veterinary Herbal Medicine and Angie Hughes, L. Ac. and former professor of acupuncture at Bastyr School of Naturopathy. The comprehensive hybrid course teaches you traditional meridians, five element theory and Bi (Pain) Syndromes found in very few trainings.
ANIMAL AROMATIC SCIENCES CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Aromatic Science encompasses not only the use of essential oils, but also clays, ointments and herbs to support animal health. Joan Sorita of Bermaga Farms designed and teaches our program at her herb farm in Montesano, WA. Joan Sorita is one of only a handful of people to have successfully completed Caroline Igraham’s Wild Life Aromatics Masters in Zoopharmocognosy degree program.
NWSAM is the exclusive provider of training in Manual Ligament Therapy, created by Arik Gohl and adapted for animals by NWSAM Founder Lola Michelin.
Our M.A.P.s program combines the power of massage with the magic of acupressure for specific protocols for a wide range of animal concerns.
NWSAM is proud to host educators from several programs to offer our students such opportunities as Visceral Therapy training and CranioSacral Therapy for Animals.
In 2025, we are proud to host Lorre Mueller, D.O. of Trinity Equine Services for two Equine Dissection Courses (SOLD OUT) and Debranne Patillo from Equinology for the Equine Anatomy Discovery Workshop in Clay through EquiLearn.
WITH THE NORTHWEST SCHOOL OF ANIMAL MASSAGE, THE FUTURE IS IN YOUR HANDS
WASHINGTON STATE RESIDENTS: NWSAM OFFERS SPECIAL BUNDLE PACKAGES THAT INCLUDE ALL OF THE COURSES YOU WILL NEED TO SATISFY THE 300 HOUR WASHINGTON STATE LICENSING REQUIREMENTS. NWSAM IS A WASHINGTON STATE-APPROVED TRAINING PROGRAM.
Maximum Flexibility! Top Quality Instruction! The Best Hands-On Experience!