Hannah Combs, CVA, CEMT

My journey with horses began from the moment I could walk.

Thanks to my mother’s passion and guidance, I was raised in the barn and quickly discovered that horses would be a central part of my life. I’ve spent the last 17 years immersed in the competitive equestrian world, primarily riding hunt seat equitation and showing in both the International Equestrian Association (IEA) and Intercollegiate Horse Shows Association (IHSA).

In 2016, I purchased my first horse, Sterling Silver, a 17-year-old, 17.2hh Thoroughbred/Warmblood cross. With patience and dedication, I brought him up to compete in the hunter and equitation divisions. A year later, my mother and I founded Dixie Creek Ranch, a boarding and rehabilitation sanctuary for horses. It was there that I met my second horse, Apollo, an 18-year-old, 16.2hh Thoroughbred/Warmblood cross who arrived with a kissing spine diagnosis and a significant ligament injury. Believing in the power of second chances, I welcomed Apollo into our family in 2018. After years of focused rehabilitation, I was able to bring him back into work, and he is now competing with me in the 1.00m jumper ring.

Knowing I wanted a lifelong career working with horses, I pursued an education that would allow me to blend my passion with purpose. In 2019, I became a certified Veterinary Assistant through the Florida Veterinary Medical Association and have maintained that certification through continued education and volunteer work with both small and large animal clinics. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration in Animal Biology and a minor in Psychology from the University of South Florida.

Professionally, I have worked in a variety of veterinary and equine settings. I served as an overnight and emergency Veterinary Technician at Brandon Equine Medical Center, gaining extensive hands-on experience in equine health and critical care. In 2024, I transitioned into the role of barn manager, trainer, and lesson instructor at a therapeutic riding facility.

In 2025, I earned my Equine Massage Therapy Certification from the Animal Rehab Institute, where I received specialized training in stress point therapy, myofascial release, core strengthening exercises, and more. My approach to equine massage is rooted in science, compassion, and a holistic understanding of each horse's unique needs. I am committed to ongoing education and continuously strive to improve my ability to support equine athletes of any discipline, companions, and retirees alike.

Whether your horse is recovering from injury, experiencing discomfort, or simply in need of maintenance to perform at their best, I’m here to help support their health, mobility, and overall well-being.