
EMILY BLAKER, PT, DPT, MFDc
Why Ferris Equine
I founded Ferris Equine because I saw a gap in the equestrian world. Horse owners invest in saddle fitting, chiropractic care, veterinary treatment, bodywork, and countless lessons—but one piece is often overlooked: the rider's strength and mobility. The horse and rider function as one system, and limitations in either can affect comfort, movement, and performance.
As both a Doctor of Physical Therapy and lifelong equestrian, I help improve that partnership from both ends of the reins.
Horses Have Always Been Home
I fell in love with horses as a teenager. Without the resources for formal lessons, I spent weekends and afternoons as a working student, where I discovered both my passion for horsemanship and my fascination with rehabilitation.
That path led me to Cal Poly, where I studied Animal Science and Equine Science while starting young horses, working in breeding programs, and gaining experience with sport horses. Later, I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy while continuing to train and ride dressage with my own mare, Lisette.
Why Ferris Equine Is Different
My background allows me to see the entire picture—not just the horse or just the rider.
Whether I'm working with a horse performing movement analysis and bodywork, helping a rider improve mobility, or analyzing horse and rider movement under saddle, my recommendations are rooted in biomechanics, anatomy, and evidence-based practice.
My goal isn't simply to relieve discomfort. It's to help horse and rider move better together.
Beyond Ferris Equine
Outside of work, you'll usually find me riding my Oldenburg mare, Lisette, hiking Northern California trails, or staying active through strength training and fitness. In May 2026, I married my husband, Scott Ferris, and chose the name Ferris Equine for this business because it represents the family and future we're building together. Our dream is to create a place where horses and riders can learn, grow, and perform at their best.
Education
2014-2018
1. Bachelors in Animal Science: Pre-Veterinary Medicine Focus
2. Minor in Equine Science
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo
I completed my B.S. in Animal Science (Pre-Veterinary Medicine focus) and Minor in Equine Science at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. This education grounded me in equine anatomy, biomechanics, behavior, and evidence-based management. This knowledge now supports my equine performance work and my understanding of the horse-and-rider system as a whole.
2019-2022
Doctor of Physical Therapy
UCSF/SFSU
I earned my Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the UCSF/SFSU Graduate Program in Physical Therapy, the top-ranked public-university DPT program on the West Coast and within the top 10% of all programs nationally. This rigorous, movement and science focused training provides the clinical foundation behind my rider performance work.
2025
Equine Bodywork Certificate
Equissage
I’m currently completing my Equine Bodywork Certificate through Equissage, expanding my hands-on expertise in equine soft tissue health to better support comfort, mobility, and optimal performance in the horse.




















