About SAENA
Upholding Excellence in Animal Naturopathic Care
The Small Animal and Equine Naturopathic Association (SAENA) is Australia’s leading member association for qualified small animal and equine naturopathic practitioners. We are dedicated to advancing the field of natural medicine for animals and ensuring the highest standards of professional practice.
Nurturing Health, Upholding Standards
SAENA is profoundly committed to promoting the significant benefits of Natural Medicine for dogs, cats, and horses. We believe in a holistic approach to animal well-being and are dedicated to working constructively in conjunction with the broader veterinary industry. Our core mission is to:
Promote Natural Medicine
Advocate for the effective and compassionate use of natural therapies for animals.Support Professional Excellence
Ensure that our members meet a rigorous standard of educational achievement and professional skill.Foster Collaboration
Work respectfully alongside the veterinary community for integrated animal care.Verifying Expertise, Supporting Professionals
As an association, SAENA plays a vital role in the natural animal health landscape
Qualification Verification
We verify that our members hold accreditations from a select list of recognised educational courses, ensuring a consistent standard of excellence in their chosen fields of natural animal therapy.Professional Development
Our members have access to leading edge educators from both local and international facilitators and mentors.Supporting Modalities
SAENA encompasses practitioners skilled in key modalities such as Myofunctional Therapy (Massage), Herbal Medicine, and Nutrition, applying science-backed natural methods.Values That Guide Us
SAENA operates under a robust Constitution, with a committee dedicated to upholding key values that define our association.
Excellence: A commitment to the highest educational and professional standards.
Integrity: Upholding a strong Code of Ethics in all practices.
Holism: Promoting a comprehensive approach to animal well-being.
Collaboration: Fostering respectful relationships within the animal healthcare community.
Compassion: A deep dedication to the health and welfare of all animals.
Our Dedicated Executive Team
Laura Johnson
President
Laura completed her Canine Massage Therapy Certification with NCTM in 2016. She also has a Diploma in Natural Resource Management and Advanced Certificate in Horticulture. Laura’s employment history has been with Federal, State and Local Government whilst also running her own pet care business which offers dog massage, pet care/feeding and dog walking. She is also taking the steps to reach her goal of becoming a Vet Nurse. Having owned and cared for pets all her life, Laura has a natural connection with them and currently owns two dogs and two horses. Laura has been on the SAENA Executive from 2017 – 2020, and after taking a break for the past 18 months, is now back in the role of Vice President. She is looking forward to contributing to the future of SAENA.
Faye Dabrowski
Vice President and Secretary (admin)
Faye is a NCTM graduate of Canine Myofunctional Therapy, who joined SAENA in 2018. Faye has a Diploma in Animal Technology and worked as an animal technician for 10 years. As a wildlife lover, she has been a penguin guide in Melbourne and rehabilitated elephants, moon bears and rhinos overseas. Blending her interest in animals and natural health, Faye also became a qualified Canine Bowen Therapist and runs her pet practice, Sit Stay Heal. She also works part time as a quarantine officer and is a loving mum to her feisty chihuahuas.
Phil Friedlos
Treasurer
Phil graduated from NCTM with a Diploma in Canine Myofunctional Therapy in 2021, following completion of a Practitioner qualification in Whole Energy Body Balance in 2020. Phil is based on Phillip Island in Victoria, where he runs his business “Island Dog Care” offering dog massage, homecare, and dog walking services. He also volunteers at an animal rescue sanctuary and works in a boarding kennel
Emily Valentine
Secretary (membership)
Emily graduated in 2022 with a Diploma of Equine Myofunctional Therapy. Emily’s passion for assisting horses to feel, move and be the best they can, has also led her to become qualified in Equine Bowen Therapy and do many short courses relating to horses. Living on a remote rural cattle station in QLD with her husband and children and many four legged friends, they face many challenges, especially in regards to access to a variety of health providers for human and animal alike. These challenges and a very strong love for horses has led and continues to lead her passion for continued learning to help horses be their best.
Linda Bolton-Breen
Member Secretary (membership)
Linda first completed her Diploma in Canine Myofunctional Therapy with NCTM in 2011, followed by her Diploma in Equine Myofunctional Therapy in 2019. Building on these foundations, she established her own practice, Breton Equine Wellness, which focuses on equine bodywork with a holistic approach to recovery and repair. Her work supports not only the physical but also the emotional well-being of horses, helping to restore balance and connection between horse and rider.Linda previously served on the SAENA Committee and, after taking a break to further her studies, has returned as Member Secretary. Alongside her equine practice, she brings a strong background in administration, adding depth and professionalism to her committee role.
Jan Harrison
General Committee Member
Jan has a certificate of Canine Myotherapy NCTM, Canine Bowen therapy ISBT and Canine Laser Therapy Dr Laurie McCauley OPV. Jan believes in the role that canine rehabilitation and conditioning have in helping dogs live healthy, happier and longer lives. Jan has volunteered with a Local Conservation group and with feeding the Helmeted Honeyeater, one of Victoria’s State Animal Emblem’s and endangered species.
Sandi Rogers
Founder / Past President
Sandi founded SAENA in 2006 in response to the growing recognition of and demand for the need for an Association that sets standards in education and professional practice in the fields of natural therapies for animals. A qualified Medical Herbalist, Naturopath, Reflexiologist, Lecturer, Massage Therapist, and Founder of the National College of Traditional Medicine, Sandi also has a Masters in Education and Training and a Doctoral Degree. Having published many papers and authored books on natural medicine, Sandi is also in demand on the corporate speaking circuit with engagements both nationally and internationally.Your Next Step Towards Natural Animal Health.
SAENA supports both dedicated animal owners and passionate practitioners.
For Pet & Equine Owners
Discover qualified professionals offering holistic care for your animal.
Find a PractitionerFor Animal Naturopathy Professionals
Elevate your practice, connect with peers, and gain industry recognition.
Become a SAENA Member