Bringing Farriery and Bodywork together for the good of the whole horse
Dave Schaefer, CJF, Int’l DipEO
Equine Osteopath and Farrier based in Greenville, Virginia, is the founder and creator of Equine Indirect Release® (EIR).
Equine Indirect Release® (EIR) is a proprietary, indirect therapeutic system that supports whole-body regulation by addressing how tension influences the nervous system and internal physiology. Using subtle, precise techniques—without force or stretching—EIR helps restore balance, reduce stress, and support optimal function from the inside out.
Dave’s revolutionary work supports the horse’s health, development, and long-term soundness by addressing the body as an integrated system rather than a collection of isolated parts. By combining extensive knowledge of farriery, osteopathy, and bodywork, his approach supports the whole horse at the deepest regulatory levels.
Highly regarded for both skill and sensitivity, Dave has become an integral part of many performance and rehabilitation programs. Horses consistently respond with relaxation, improved balance, and ease of movement—often demonstrating changes that are both immediate and systemic.
This therapy has been amazing on some of the toughest horses
Schaefer Equine and Equine Indirect Release has been a game changer for my upper level event horses. Dave has been able to help horses improve in their performance, where other therapies have lacked. This therapy has been amazing on some of the toughest horses. JTE is happy to recommend Schaefer Equine to anyone!
Jill Thomas Smith
Jill Thomas Eventing
I can’t say enough good things about the results.
I started working with Dave late last year on my 8 yr gelding who was really blocked in his movement. He wouldn’t get off of my leg and had every lameness work up known to man that yielded no explanation. Dave discovered he was locked up in his diaphragm and shoulders and went to work with his Indirect Release technique. Slowly he’s worked on other areas that have needed releasing like a domino effect and I can’t say enough good things about the results. Prior to Dave, I had worked with three other Osteos and a Chiropractor and never once felt the difference on my horse after their sessions. The change was almost immediate after EIR. Over the winter, he became forward and “buttery” to ride. Dave has magic hands and is such a vital part of our wellness plan going forward!!
Bethany Brower
Adult Amatuer Eventer
I can’t recommend Dave enough for his Equine Indirect Release work.
My horse has struggled with sheath swelling that sometimes moves forward into the skin on his belly and makes him pretty uncomfortable. After Dave worked on him, I noticed a huge difference within just a couple of days. The swelling went down significantly, and he looked so much more comfortable and relaxed. Dave has also helped improve his shoulder freedom and movement, and overall my horse has more mobility and freedom in his body and movement. I’m so grateful for Dave and the care he puts into his work. Thank you, Dave!
Rose Brown
Double R Colt Starting
Founder/Creator-Equine Indirect Release® | American Farriers Association Member | Board Member of the Virginia Horseshoers Association NAEP Member | Virginia Horse Council Member
