Chris Bates M.Ost DipAOs In the world of animal therapies and human therapies alike, there is a tissue that has until recent times remained poorly understood. Fascia plays a role in a variety of functions of the body and could also be responsible for some of the positive effects of therapies that we hadn’t even […]
By Karen Lithgow – London College of Animal Osteopathy graduate, Animal Osteopath and Veterinary Nurse, LCAO Online Study Group Director Palliative care is often misunderstood as passive or limited to end-of-life scenarios. In reality, it’s about relieving discomfort, supporting function, and preserving quality of life, especially when curative treatment is no longer an option. Osteopathy […]
Some myths are hard to kill. Every summer, they resurface, usually in Facebook threads with 150 comments and rising tension. “Never hose a horse’s back!” “Don’t pour water on dogs; it traps the heat!” You’ve probably seen it. Maybe even argued it. So let’s cut through the noise and get down to what actually works, […]
Accurate assessment is critical in animal osteopathy. Sometimes, the most professional decision is knowing when not to treat. If you notice any of the following red flags during your evaluation, referring the animal promptly to a veterinarian isn’t just recommended; it’s essential for the animal’s safety and well-being. Sudden-Onset, Non–Weight–Bearing Lameness, Especially with Swelling Non–weight–bearing lameness (when […]
Chris Bates M.Ost, DipAO, EEBW, BHSAI Owners and riders of horses may, at some point, experience the frustration of not knowing what to do in the event of their horse becoming a “headshaker”. There can be many different reasons for horses to head-shake, and so the most important thing is to work with the Vet and […]
Exploring Cognitive Bias, Observer Bias, and Non-Specific Treatment Effects in Companion Animal Care In human healthcare, the placebo effect is well established. But what happens in veterinary care, where the patient can’t speak? While animals may not experience a placebo in the traditional sense, the caregiver placebo effect, observer bias, and non-specific treatment effects all […]
When we think about osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs, our minds often jump straight to the hips and elbows, and with good reason. These are the most commonly affected joints, particularly in breeds predisposed to hip or elbow dysplasia. But OA doesn’t always follow the “classic” patterns. In fact, it can show up in far less […]
May marks Veterinary Nursing Awareness Month (VNAM) in the UK, a time dedicated to recognising the invaluable contributions of veterinary nurses. Spearheaded by the British Veterinary Nursing Association (BVNA), this year’s VNAM carries the theme “Progression,” celebrating the evolution and advancement of the veterinary nursing profession over the past 60 years. The Multifaceted Role of […]
Osteoarthritis in Horses and Dogs: Understanding the Condition and Supporting Long-Term Wellness May is Arthritis Awareness Month, a time to shed light on one of the most common, and often misunderstood, degenerative conditions affecting animals: osteoarthritis (OA). Whether it’s an aging Labrador struggling to get up or a sport horse becoming subtly uneven under saddle, […]
In recognition of May as Arthritis Prevention Month, Dr. Mario Soriano, DVM and Director of Veterinary Studies at the London College of Animal Osteopathy, explains how incorporating Equine Osteopathy into the maintenance program of sport horses reduces joint injuries, increases recovery rates, and improves the overall well-being of horses. Valencia, May 5, 2025 — Joint health […]
In the bustling heart of the city, amid high-rises, traffic, and concrete, an unexpected movement is quietly gaining momentum: the rise of animal osteopathy and holistic therapies in urban environments. Once considered niche or rural, these hands-on approaches are proving essential for city-dwelling animals coping with the unique physical and emotional demands of urban life. […]
As animal osteopaths, we pride ourselves on our ability to support the mobility, comfort, and well-being of our clients. But effective care doesn’t always mean hands-on treatment. In fact, sometimes the best decision we can make is not to treat, but instead, refer. Whether it’s a dog presenting with acute lameness or a horse with neurological […]
Chris Bates M.Ost DipAO EEBW BHSAI Well, here I am again, going into my thoughts about Osteopathy and putting them down in writing. Last time in the “Musings of an Osteopath” series, I discussed my introduction to Osteopathy and a little about the industry and how it progressed. This time I want to talk about what […]
Animal osteopathy is a rapidly growing field that offers practitioners the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of animals. If you have a passion for animal health and are considering a career in this field, the London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) provides a comprehensive education that prepares you for success. What […]
An Overview of Common Canine Pathologies: Clinical Features, Treatment Approaches, and the Role of Osteopathy Here, we explore prevalent canine pathologies, highlighting clinical signs, conventional treatment modalities, and the potential role of osteopathy in canine care. Emphasis is placed on the scope and limitations of osteopathic intervention within evidence-based veterinary frameworks. Osteoarthritis (Degenerative Joint Disease) […]
Chris Bates M.Ost, DipAO, EEBW, BHSAI Many horse owners and equine professionals will have come across a horse with the diagnosis of “Kissing Spines,” but despite the widespread occurrence, there appears to be considerable confusion and conflicting information around causative factors and the management of the condition. Here I aim to demystify the condition and provide […]
Chris Bates M.Ost, DipAO, EEBW, BHSAI Let’s take a look at an often misunderstood condition affecting many horses worldwide, Equine Metabolic Syndrome or “EMS”. For horse owners and the professionals who care for and treat horses, understanding conditions such as EMS can enhance the horse’s welfare by ensuring that appropriate interventions are put into place. […]
Osteopathy, a form of manual therapy focusing on the musculoskeletal system, has been increasingly applied in veterinary medicine to aid post-veterinary treatment recovery in animals. This approach emphasises the interrelationship between structure and function, aiming to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and enhance overall physiological function. Understanding Osteopathy in Veterinary Medicine Animal osteopathy is an integrated […]
Another standout work by an LCAO student! Read about Osteopathy and its effects on foals and growing horses in a thesis by International Diploma in Equine Osteopathy student, Claire Delisle Legrand.
Fascia: The Overlooked Key to Animal Mobility and Health What is Fascia? Fascia is a continuous, connective tissue network that surrounds, supports, and integrates every structure in the body, including muscles, bones, nerves, and organs. Once considered an inert wrapping, research now recognises fascia as a dynamic system essential for movement, proprioception, and overall health. […]
As part of LCAO´s ongoing endeavour to publish outstanding work, we share “Osteopathic Manual Therapy to Facilitate Healing in Traumatized Horses” by PhD and International Diploma in Animal Osteopathy graduate, Catherine Slaney. Click on the thumbnail to read the full work below.
Veterinary medicine and canine osteopathy share a common goal: improving animal health and well-being. While veterinary medicine primarily focuses on diagnosing and treating diseases, osteopathy takes a holistic approach, emphasizing the interconnection between the musculoskeletal system and overall health. Rather than being alternatives, these disciplines can work synergistically to optimize canine health, enhance recovery, and […]
Chris Bates M.Ost, DipAO, EEBW, BHSAI With any horse or human, for that matter, nutrition is an essential consideration when it comes to health management. […]
The Longissimus Dorsi Muscle in the Horse: Anatomy and Function The longissimus dorsi is one of the most significant muscles in the equine musculoskeletal system. As part of the epaxial muscles, it plays a crucial role in movement, stability, and performance. Understanding its anatomy, function, and clinical relevance is essential for veterinarians, osteopaths, and equine […]
Biomechanics, Horses and Osteopathy Biomechanics is the study of the mechanical principles that govern the movement and structure of living organisms. By examining how forces interact with the body, biomechanics bridges the gap between biological systems and physics, offering valuable insights into movement, posture, and overall functionality. Equine biomechanics focuses on understanding the horse’s musculoskeletal […]
Click on the thumbnail below to read an exemplary thesis by LCAO International Diploma in Canine Osteopathy student, Sharon Ferrer, in which she examines the efficacy of regular osteopathic treatments on anxiety in dogs. For more information on how you can become an Animal Osteopath, click here
January is Walk Your Dog Month, a perfect time to embrace the health and bonding benefits of regular walks with your canine companion. Walking your dog isn’t just about exercise; it’s about creating a routine that benefits both of you. Make “Walk Your Dog Month” your starting point for healthier, happier habits this year. Whether […]
Equine CranioSacral Therapy is a gentle, non-invasive manual therapy that focuses on the craniosacral system – the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. By assessing and addressing restrictions within this system, Equine CranioSacral Therapy aims to enhance the horse’s natural healing processes, alleviate pain, and improve overall well-being. Historical Background […]
International Diploma in Animal Osteopathy (Int’l DipAO) graduate, Frouke-tea Friedhoff explores the use of neurological segmentation in equine osteopathy as her thesis subject. Frouke-tea Friedhoff
Honoring Our Noble Companions: Celebrating the National Day of the Horse Every December 13th, we honor one of humanity’s most loyal and noble companions with the National Day of the Horse. This day serves as a tribute to the profound influence horses have had on our lives, shaping history, culture, and even the economy. Whether […]
Click on the thumbnail below to read an exemplary thesis by LCAO International Diploma in Canine Osteopathy student, Sharon Ferrer, in which she examines the efficacy of regular osteopathic treatments on anxiety in dogs.
The Dangers of Iron Overload in a Horse’s Diet Iron is a vital mineral for all living creatures, including horses. It plays a crucial role in oxygen transport and energy metabolism. However, when it comes to iron intake, balance is key. While iron deficiency is a common concern in many animals, horses are unique in […]
Musings of an Osteopath Part I Chris Bates M.Ost DipAO EEBW BHSAI Join me on a journey into my thoughts (not as disturbing as it sounds) about Osteopathy, medicine, and the healing arts. This is part one of a series that I hope to make a regular feature. As we delve into the world of […]
By Rachel Pechek, LCAO instructor, and Kalie Larson, LCAO Animal Osteopathy Student Four core principles. They are the foundation of Osteopathic Medicine. We, as osteopaths, view the body as a complex, constantly changing, and interconnected system, where issues in one area can result in complications and compensatory responses elsewhere. London College of Animal Osteopathy […]
Chris Bates M.Ost, DipAO, EEBW, BHSAI The domesticated dog has changed far from the wild ancestors of old and the canid cousins they share in the wild today. Dogs as pets and companions come in many shapes and sizes from the smallest of “teacup” breeds to immense Great Danes and Irish Wolf Hounds. As with many […]
Chris Bates M.Ost DipAO EEBW BHSAI While more animal owners than ever are seeking Osteopaths for their beloved companions, many are not entirely sure what their practitioner is doing or how osteopathy works. It would be impossible to explain fully what each intervention involves. The understanding of Osteopathy takes time to acquire and even longer […]
Acorn Toxicity in Horses: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist Acorns, a common feature of oak trees, might seem harmless, but they pose a significant health risk to horses. Although acorn poisoning isn’t a daily concern for most horse owners, the threat increases dramatically during certain times of the year. Knowing how […]
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager As canine sports gain popularity, from agility and flyball to dock diving and herding, the demand for optimal performance and injury prevention in athletic dogs has surged. While traditional veterinary care remains essential, alternative therapies like osteopathy are becoming increasingly recognised for their ability to enhance […]
Osteopathy is an increasingly sought-after form of therapy, reflecting a broader shift towards holistic and alternative therapies in veterinary care. This holistic approach to treating animals is gaining popularity as pet owner awareness increases. Complementary therapies are becoming more common, as evidence supporting the efficacy of osteopathy treatment for animals increases. A significant driver of […]
By: Chris Bates M.Ost Feel and touch are not the only ways to really “feel”. I remember being told by one of my favorite teachers in my Osteopathy degree (for humans), “When you know the anatomy and how to work safely, then you can work with ‘no mind’, fluidly and without thinking”. His […]
Click on the thumbnail below to read about how osteopathic treatment is used in animal rehabilitation. Tony Smit
Center of Gravity – Riding Horses in Balance and Harmony By Chris Bates M.Ost EEBW BHSAI Riding horses can look effortless and easy when performed by some of the best riders out there. Those of us normal mortals though, understand that riding is far from easy. When you watch a horse and […]
Cooling Hot Dogs: Myths and Facts As temperatures rise, it’s crucial to keep our canine companions cool to prevent heat-related illnesses. Unfortunately, many myths about cooling dogs persist, potentially putting them at risk. Myth 1: Cold Water Causes Shock and Bloat Fact A common myth suggests that giving dogs ice water can […]
Cooling Hot Horses: The Right Way & Busting Myths Cooling down a horse after intense exercise or in hot weather is crucial for its health and well-being. There are numerous myths surrounding the best practices for cooling horses, some of which can be detrimental. Here we’ll take a look at some of the common […]
The Shoulder of the Dog: Anatomy and Functional Adaptations The shoulder of the dog is a complex anatomical structure that plays a crucial role in the animal’s mobility and agility. Understanding these components is essential for appreciating the dog’s evolutionary adaptations for running and hunting. Muscles of the Dog’s Shoulder The shoulder […]
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Animal holistic health practitioners, including osteopaths, physiotherapists, acupuncturists, and other complementary therapists, possess unique skills that can significantly enhance the well-being of animals. Specialized knowledge in alternative therapies can be a powerful asset in the realm of animal welfare, particularly in supporting animals that […]
The Equine Jump – An Osteopathic Review Chris Bates M.Ost EEBW BHSAI Whether showjumping, eventing or jumping for fun, jumping horses is a thrilling activity and the horses often thoroughly enjoy it too. Jumping is certainly one of the more intensive physical activities that we do with our horses and so it makes sense […]
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager As our beloved canine companions age, they often face a host of health challenges, with chronic pain being a prevalent concern. From arthritis to degenerative joint disease, senior dogs can experience discomfort that affects their quality of life. While traditional veterinary treatments play a […]
Click on the thumbnail below to read about myofascial kinetic lines as a diagnostic tool. Erika Walton
Promoting Horse Barn Safety By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Ensuring safety in a horse barn is not just about reacting to potential dangers; it’s about proactively preventing them. From the moment a visitor steps onto the property to the daily care routines, every action should prioritize the well-being of […]
Click on the thumbnail below to read about the effect of the rider on horses asymmetries in consideration of equine osteopathic diagnosis.
Click on the PDF below to read about the effects of osteopathic manipulative treatment on Parkinson’s disease related symptoms in animals. Kendra Byers
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager As our beloved canine companions age, they may face a myriad of health challenges, ranging from arthritis to reduced mobility. While conventional veterinary care plays a crucial role in managing these issues, complementary therapies like osteopathy are gaining recognition for their ability to enhance the […]
Chris Bates M.Ost EEBW When approaching any science or […]
By Siun Griffin, Vet Physio and LCAO Community Manager In the intricate biomechanics of horses, understanding the musculature is crucial for ensuring their well-being and performance. Among the myriad muscles contributing to equine locomotion and posture, the splenius muscle holds significant importance. Anatomy of the Splenius Muscle The splenius muscle is located […]
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager As winter melts away and the warmth of spring emerges, horse owners must transition their care routines to accommodate the changing needs of their equine companions. Springtime heralds new growth, but it also brings forth specific challenges that demand attention and preparation. From shedding […]
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and Rachel Pechek, Animal Osteopath and LCAO Head Instructor Osteopathy and Nerves We received a question some time ago about how an osteopath approaches nerve-related problems. There are many facets to this topic and we will try and touch on each of them in this post. First off, it is […]
Canine Conditioning By Chris Bates M.Ost, Equine Therapist Whether your dog is a family pet or a sporting competitor, fitness and mobility are of great importance to maintaining well-being and general health. Sometimes dog owners can fall into the trap of walking their beloved canines, but not fully understanding their pet’s movement needs. Even dogs […]
The thoracic sling is a crucial component of a horse’s muscular system, playing a vital role in its overall movement and well-being. Composed of specific muscles and other tissues that connect the front limbs to the thorax, the thoracic sling contributes significantly to a horse’s balance, coordination, and strength. Let’s take a closer look […]
Listening to Animal Owners as a Clinician By Chris Bates, M.Ost (Osteopath and Equine Therapist) Within a Veterinary practice or any form of professional interaction with animal owners, communication is key in discovering the information you need to make safe and appropriate decisions. While many pursue a career in Veterinary Medicine or […]
Click on the PDF below to read a stand out exploration of the role of osteopathic manual treatment in performance horses.
Click on the PDF below to read an outstanding analysis of biofluids and heat transfer methods in the usefulness of thermal imaging in canine osteopathy. Tori is based in NSW Central Coast, Australia, and runs Canine Body Balance. To learn more about her work or to get in touch, click here
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist, LCAO Community Manager #1 Dentist Your horse should have a dental exam and float at least once per year. Ensure this is done by a veterinarian with expertise in equine dental or a highly qualified equine dentist. #2 Vaccinations Are your horse’s vaccinations up to date? […]
Pain does not always equal damage Chris Bates M.Ost – Registered Osteopath Whether we are talking about Humans or Animals, pain science is an important subject to understand when we embark on a career in therapy. In the world of Osteopathy, pain is possibly the most obvious and prevalent sign of something affecting our […]
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Dogs are beloved members of our families, but their dietary needs differ significantly from ours. Some foods that are safe for humans can be highly toxic to canines due to their unique metabolism. It’s essential to be aware of these potential dangers to keep your […]
Enhancing Veterinary Care with Animal Osteopathy: A Holistic Approach By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Animal osteopathy is an emerging field within veterinary medicine that focuses on promoting wellness and treating various health issues in animals through manual manipulation of the musculoskeletal system. This holistic approach considers the interconnectedness of […]
Florence de Radigues is an Equine and Canine Physiotherapist from Portugal as well as recent graduate of the Postgraduate Diploma in Animal Osteopathy (PG DipAO) program at London College of Animal Osteopathy. For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here
By Christopher Bates M.Ost (Registered Osteopath), LCAO Contributor Whether they are rushing about chasing tennis balls or challenging you to a tugging match with a toy, dogs are a joy to watch. However, their playful movements make these exuberant animals far more prone to lateral (sideways) forces and injuries than any other domesticated animal. […]
Click on the thumbnail below to read an excellent dissertation by LCAO graduate Bianca Coutts on the efficacy of osteopathic manual treatment for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis. For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here
By Chris Bates, DO and Animal Therapist Last time in Part One, I introduced you to a case of a horse with recurrent neck problems, and I discovered over my observations and assessments that the causative impact was from the rider/owner. Of course, this is not an uncommon thing to discover when working with […]
Healing Horse Tendon Injuries: Working as a Team, Vet, Phyio, and Osteopath By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Horse tendon injuries can be a significant cause of concern for horse owners and trainers alike, as these injuries can lead to decreased performance, prolonged rest periods, and sometimes even retirement. Tendons […]
It’s the Rider! – Part 1 “I’m starting with the man in the mirror” – (Michael Jackson) By Chris Bates, DO and Animal Therapist Quite often in equine therapy, we can find ourselves looking way beyond the biological limits of the horse (i.e., the horse’s physical body) and seeking answers to our questions in the […]
By Siun Griffin, Veterinary Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Tendons and ligaments are vital components of a horse’s musculoskeletal system, playing crucial roles in supporting and stabilizing their limbs during movement. However, they are susceptible to injuries that can be severe and difficult to treat. As responsible horse owners, it is essential to […]
The Importance of Saddle Fit for Horses: Ensuring Comfort and Performance By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager A well-fitting saddle is crucial for the overall well-being, comfort, and performance of horses. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining the horse’s physical and mental health. Here, we will delve into why […]
Click on the thumbnail below to read an outstanding dissertation by LCAO graduate Marc Beaussart on the treatment of Kissing Spine Syndrome with Osteopathic Manual Therapy. For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Laminitis is a painful condition that affects the hooves of horses and requires prompt recognition and intervention to minimize its impact. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of laminitis is crucial for early detection and appropriate management. The following information outlines common signs indicative of laminitis in […]
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Spring has sprung and so has the increased risk of laminitis in horses. While laminitis can occur at any time, spring grass in particular commonly triggers this horrible condition. Laminitis is a debilitating condition that affects the hooves of horses, causing severe pain and lameness. […]
Pole Work For Equine Rehab: Part 1 By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager For horses that need rehab, strengthening of the thoracic slightly, and proprioception improvement, pole work is one of the best exercises you can combine with treatment from an equine osteopath. Pole work can help strengthen the muscles, […]
The Main Anatomy Of The Horse’s Back You Need To Know By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager The anatomy and biomechanics of the horse’s back are essential for understanding how the horse moves and performs. Having knowledge of the horse’s back structure is invaluable for horse owners and therapists alike. Ensuring that […]
Osteopathy is not just “skin deep”. Thoughts on the deeper effects of Osteopathic Manual Therapy in animals. By Chris Bates, DO, Animal Therapist and LCAO Contributor It is easy to look at Osteopaths in practice and see the obvious or perhaps larger effects of their manual work on the animal, but what else happens during […]
Feeding Oil To Horses – What Is Best? By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Dressing your horse’s feed with oil is a popular and long-practiced part of equine management. However, there is a lot of misinformation about what oils you should provide your horse. When choosing an oil to give your […]
Easing a Difficult Calf Birth with Craniosacral Osteopathy As an experienced animal osteopath, course creator and member of the teaching faculty at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO), Prof. Vickie Keam has treated canines, equines and cows of all ages. Here, a client describes how Prof. Keam was instrumental in easing a difficult calf […]
The Art of Classical Osteopathy By Chris Bates, DO and Animal Therapist If you’re here reading this blog you’ve either 1) heard of classical osteopathy and want to learn more or 2) you’re saying to yourself “Wait, there are different types of osteopathy?”. Either way, we welcome you to the discussion. Let’s dive in! Modern […]
Caring for the Injured Horse Part I By Chris Bates, Osteopath (DO), Animal Therapist and LCAO Contributing Author Caring for horses is a fun and rewarding experience. However, as with any living creature, accidents and injuries can happen. It’s common to hear about horses coming in from grazing with cuts, lumps, and bumps and feeling […]
Signs of Joint Pain in Dogs By Siun Griffin, Animal Physiotherapist and Community Manager at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO). Joint pain is a common issue that affects dogs. Signs of joint pain in dogs can come from injury, such as overdoing it when running, falling, and playing, or from conditions, such as […]
Following Freezing Point By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and Community Manager at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) In this LCAO exclusive, International Diploma in Equine Osteopathy (Int’l DipEO) student, Randy Gootzeit, talks about her journey with her racehorse Freezing Point. She kindly took the time to answer some questions and share what issues Freezing Point […]
By: London College of Animal Osteopathy ABOUT PROF. STUART MCGREGOR AND OAB METHOD Modern osteopathic techniques used today in animal manual therapy are attributed to the teachings of Stuart McGregor, D.O., a U.K.-based osteopath and Director of Clinical Studies at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO). Building on his vast knowledge and experience working with […]
Biopsychosocial Health in Dogs By Chris Bates, DO, Animal Therapist and Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) When we look at the health of a patient as an Osteopath, there is more to it than assessing the animal for musculoskeletal anomalies and rubbing backs. Osteopathy has always been a system that considers all of […]
What is Osteopathy? By Prof. Stuart McGregor, DO, Animal Osteopath, Director of Clinical Studies at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) Osteopathy is an established, recognized system of diagnosis and treatment that lays its main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body. It is distinctive in the fact that it recognizes much of […]
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and Community Manager at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) Following on from Chris Bates’s article, Saving at the Stables – Horse Ownership in an Economic Crisis, here is another way to help you save money – reproofing horse blankets. Many of us, myself included, tend to replace our horse’s outdoor […]
By Chris Bates, DO, Equine Therapist and Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) There is a lot of talk in the equine industry about hoof care and the benefits of barefoot trimming. Many top riders are now competing at the very top levels of equine sport with barefoot horses. Both Peder Frederickson […]
By Chris Bates, Osteopath (DO), Equine Therapist and Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO). We’re back with Part II of Preparing for your Equine Professional. Let’s start with…. Trainers and Instructors Here in the UK, one of the first things my trainer wanted was a cup of tea (could we be any […]
By Chris Bates, Equine Therapist and Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) There is an old saying, “It takes an army to raise a child”. Any horse owner will tell you that it wouldn’t be far from the truth to say the same can be said for keeping horses. Owning a horse is […]
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist, LCAO Community Manager and Lecturer. Many plants are toxic for horses to eat, and while some are not appealing to them and they often avoid them, there is still the risk of accidental ingestion. As a horse owner, it is important to know what plants to look out […]
By Chris Bates Osteopath (DO), Equine Therapist, and Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy We are back again for more winter horse care advice. So, put those thermals on and grab your hot drink, it’s time to read. Is my horse cold? It is a common sight to see people touching their horse’s […]
By Siun Griffin, Equine Physiotherapist and LCAO Community Manager Using ice or cold water on horses for injuries is nothing new. But it certainly has become more sophisticated in the past 10 years. Cold therapy not only helps treat existing injuries but it can also be used to aid recovery and reduce soreness. Why […]
By Chris Bates, Osteopath and Equine Therapist, Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) It’s that time of year again- red noses, wooly hats, and waterproof gear! But while we know how we feel when the weather takes a turn, do we really understand how our horses react? If you spend long enough […]
By Chris Bates, DO, Animal Therapist and Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy (LCAO) If you’ve read the news or opened social media in the last 6 months, you know that much of the world is in a deep economic recession. As countries try to find solutions to their financial woes, many of […]
50% Off All Programs at London College of Animal Osteopathy. until November 30th, 2023 This limited-time offer applies to all diploma programs and includes the option to pay your tuition in three interest-free installments billed five weeks apart. Click on the image below to download a Program Prospectus. Online […]
By Chris Bates Osteopath (DO), Equine Therapist, and Lecturer at London College of Animal Osteopathy What is osteopathy and its history? Let’s take a look! Key Takeaways Osteopathy was developed during the late 19th century. Using osteopathy on animals gained popularity in the 20th century. Animal osteopathic treatment includes gentle techniques and lifestyle recommendations. History of Osteopathy […]