About
The person behind the practice and the animal who inspired it
My Story
My name is Alexis, and I am an Animal Bodywork Practitioner. From as early as I can remember, I've loved animals and felt called to care for them. When I was around six years old, I told my parents, "God created me to help His animals." That passion has never faded; it has only grown stronger.
I'm a pet owner with two cats, two Corgis, and two horses that I love dearly. My passion for animals began at a young age, and for many years I dreamed of becoming a veterinarian. Over time, I realized that path wasn't quite the right fit for me. I explored other career options, including animal nutrition and equine genetics, but none offered the hands-on connection with animals that I was looking for. When I discovered animal bodywork, everything clicked. I knew I had found a career that combined everything I was passionate about—working directly with animals, supporting their health and well-being, and building meaningful connections with them. Animal bodywork allows me to support animals in a unique and meaningful way, and I feel incredibly grateful to do work that I truly love. I've been certified by Angel's Animals Holistic Studies in canine, feline, and equine massage, as well as kinesiology.
In addition to my current certifications, I am actively pursuing advanced credentials in Acupressure, Canine Craniosacral Therapy, Reiki, and ANMR. My practical training began in 2020, when my coursework required hands-on hours. I pursued an apprenticeship with The Balanced Orchid. In 2025, I took the next step by founding Sooner Than Later. I believe there is always more to learn. I actively seek opportunities to shadow experienced practitioners, continually expanding my knowledge and perspective. Each experience deepens my understanding and enhances the quality of care I provide.
Member of the IAAMB since 2025 · Member of the IAHAPP since 2026
Sooner's Story
Sooner came into my life when I was 13 years old. I like to say that he picked me more than I picked him. When we first met, I was told he came from a ranch in Oklahoma. I could tell that whatever his life had been like before, it hadn't been an easy one. Although I don't know what happened in his past, I noticed several jagged scars along his legs that looked as though he may have become tangled in barbed wire. He was also very head shy, especially on his right side. A few months after bringing him home, I discovered a jagged scar across his tongue, as though it had been badly injured at some point. From the very beginning, Sooner felt like a soul who simply needed compassion.
While looking at Sooner, someone noticed that whenever I approached him, he seemed to come to life. His ears would perk up, and he watched my every move with curiosity. When I walked away, several other people tried to interact with him, but he barely acknowledged them—not even an ear flick. As soon as I walked back over, he immediately lit up again. Right then and there, I knew he was "the one." Sooner and I went on to train and compete in WSCA games together, although trail riding was always his favorite. He gave me everything he had, and I felt he deserved something in return. That's when I discovered equine massage and decided to learn more for his sake. He seemed to truly enjoy it, and before long, it became a passion for me as well. Now we're both in our twenties. As I begin new adventures with my younger horse, Sooner gets to enjoy the retired life he's earned.
Sooner is the reason and inspiration behind Sooner Than Later. He quickly became my "heart horse," but more importantly, he saved my life. Everything I do is dedicated in his honor.
Benefits of Animal Massage
Massage and bodywork offer a wide range of physical and emotional benefits for animals of all ages, breeds, and activity levels. Here's what regular sessions can do for your pet or horse:
Physical Benefits
- Reduces muscle tension, soreness, and stiffness
- Improves circulation and lymphatic flow
- Improve proprioception/body's awareness of movement "in space"
- Aids in recovery after exercise, injury, or surgery
- Helps identify areas of discomfort or asymmetry
- Reduce scar tissue, adheasions, or "knots"
Emotional & Behavioral Benefits
- Reduces anxiety, and stress
- Builds trust and deepens your bond with your animal
- May calm reactive or overstimulated animals
Young, Growing Animals & Seniors
- May ease discomfort associated with arthritis and aging
- Maintains quality of life and comfort in senior years
- May supports animals with chronic conditions
- Massage supports healthy muscle function and comfortable movement in young animals as their bodies grow and develop. It may also assist with recovery from play-or activity-related injuries while encouraging proprioception and neurological development.
Performance & Working Animals
- May help reduce the risk of training-related injuries and muscle strain
- Aids in recovery between training sessions
- May help working and performance animals move comfortably and perform their best.
Don't Wait, Book Sooner Than Later
Whether your animal is a senior dog, an anxious rescue, or a competing horse — I'd love to help. Reach out to get started.