OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA. — Oklahoma lawmakers are trying to redefine the certification process for animal massage and acupressure.

House Bill 2400, introduced Jan. 23, would create a certification program for both animal-massage and acupressure practitioners through the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry. The certification program would include details about the scope of practice, training and education requirement, and would remove current requirements that demand veterinary referrals for animal massage.

Training requirements under the new bill for animal massage or acupressure would include a 300-hour training program approved by the state, the completion of a qualifying examination, and other specialized training depending on the area of practice. Practitioners of animal massage and acupressure would have to file for annual certification with the state and pay necessary fees.