Animal Health Blog

In the evolving landscape of holistic animal health, thermography is rapidly emerging as a powerful, non-invasive diagnostic tool. Whether you're supporting performance horses, aging dogs, or rehabilitating rescued animals, thermography offers a unique window into the physiological imbalances that can underlie pain, inflammation, and structural dysfunction.

As animal caretakers, practitioners, and advocates, we are constantly seeking gentle, effective ways to support the well-being of our animal companions. One powerful yet often underutilized modality in the holistic toolbox is Myofascial Release (MFR)—a subtle, hands-on technique that can create profound shifts in both physical health and emotional balance

One of the most common questions we receive from students and practitioners new to animal kinesiology taping is: "Can I apply kinesiology tape directly over the animal’s coat?" The answer is yes — in most cases, you absolutely can! Example of "hair lift" where the tape lifts the hair which then lifts the underlying tissues. ✅ How It Works Unlike humans, animals are covered in fur or hair — but that doesn’t stop kinesiology tape from doing its job. When applied correctly, the

Ovarian torsion—also sometimes referred to informally as a “flipped ovary”—is a condition that can cause discomfort, behavioral changes, and performance issues in mares. While it’s not commonly diagnosed in general veterinary practice due to the complexity of confirming it without imaging or surgery, many equine practitioners and bodyworkers observe clear patterns of pain and restriction that point to tension in the pelvic and ovarian ligaments. Let’s take a deeper look at wh

In the world of holistic animal wellness, cryotherapy —or cold therapy—is making a powerful entrance. While it’s long been used in human sports medicine and rehabilitation, more and more practitioners and pet owners are discovering the incredible benefits of cryotherapy for animals. From reducing inflammation to accelerating recovery, this non-invasive modality is becoming a valuable addition to any bodyworker’s toolkit. 🧊 What is Cryotherapy? Cryotherapy involves the applic

Starting out as a new equine bodyworker is exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also be a little nerve-wracking. You’ve invested time, energy, and heart into learning the techniques, but now you’re faced with the real-world challenge of actually putting your hands on horses and trusting yourself . Here’s the good news: confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build , one session at a time. Whether you’re just starting your certification or fresh out of t

Whether you're a seasoned equine bodyworker or a dedicated horse owner, understanding where horses hold tension—and how to release it— is key to keeping them comfortable, balanced, and performing at their best. Muscle tension can result from poor saddle fit, training imbalances, conformation issues, compensation patterns, or even emotional stress. In this post, we’ll explore 5 of the most common areas where horses hold tension and share effective, holistic ways to gently rel

If you’re a Vermont resident interested in becoming a certified equine or small animal massage therapist, there’s some excellent news:...

Why gentle touch unlocks deeper healing in animals.

Learn how animals can benefit from Lymphatic Massage!

A horse’s topline tells us a lot about its health, strength, and comfort. While some postural changes are minor, others—like a roached...

A sudden “pop” or “click” from a horse’s hip region can sound alarming. Sometimes it’s benign—like a tendon snapping over a bony landmark—and other times it flags discomfort in the stifle, sacroiliac (SI) region, or pelvis. This guide walks you through likely causes, what to look for on-site, and practical, horse-friendly plans of action—plus clear red flags for when a veterinary exam should come first.

Cupping therapy, an ancient healing technique dating back thousands of years, has made its way into the world of animal bodywork — and...

When we think of headaches, we often think of humans reaching for painkillers or lying down in a dark room. But what about our equine...

Shivers Syndrome (or “Shivering”) is a challenging and often frustrating condition for horse owners. It’s a neuromuscular disorder that...

Equine therapy centers are built on compassion, connection, and care—for both people and horses. But while clients often receive highly personalized attention, the horses who make this life-changing work possible are sometimes left without the consistent bodywork they truly need.

Horse receiving a vaccination in the. neck. Vaccination is a cornerstone of equine health, protecting our horses from potentially...

As animal owners, whether you have a playful pup, a graceful horse, or a cozy cat curled up on your lap, we all share one goal: to ensure...

At Holistic Animal Studies, we understand that deciding to enroll in a new course is a big step. You might be excited about the idea of...

Learn more about our program and founder.