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.
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
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 they are galloping freely in the wild, standing proudly in a parade, or offering quiet companionship, horses remain symbols of strength, beauty, and resilience.
For thousands of years, horses have played an integral role in human civilization. In the United States, their contributions are deeply intertwined with the country’s story. From aiding humans in mobility and hunting to powering the expansion westward, horses have been steadfast partners in exploration and survival. They’ve tilled fields, carried soldiers into battle, and transported goods across vast terrains. Their legacy is one of tireless service and unwavering loyalty.
Horses aren’t only remembered for their labor. They are companions, athletes, and healers. Equestrian sports like show jumping and dressage highlight their incredible athleticism and intelligence, while therapeutic riding programs provide solace and recovery for individuals with physical and emotional challenges. Wild horses, such as the mustangs of the American West, or the Alberta Wildies of Canada, embody a spirit of freedom and untamed beauty that continues to inspire us.
The National Day of the Horse is a moment to reflect on how deeply connected we are to these magnificent creatures. It also raises awareness about the challenges they face today, from habitat loss to issues of neglect and overbreeding. Advocacy and education are key to ensuring that horses continue to thrive in both domestic and wild settings.
If you’re looking to honor horses today, here are a few meaningful ways to celebrate:
Horses are more than animals; they are a testament to the enduring partnership between humans and nature. As we celebrate the National Day of the Horse, let us honor their legacy and ensure that future generations have the opportunity to marvel at their grace and power. Take a moment today to appreciate these incredible creatures and the immeasurable joy they bring to our lives.
For more information on how you can become an Equine Osteopath, click here
Click on the thumbnail below to read about myofascial kinetic lines as a diagnostic tool.
Erika Walton
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 a stand out exploration of the role of osteopathic manual treatment in performance horses.
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
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 birth through craniosacral osteopathy.
Pippa, the ranch pet cow had a very restless labour as she kept getting up and repositioning. After the long birth, we gave Pippa and her new calf space to bond. Returning a few hours later, I found a still agitated momma that was constantly mooing at her calf. The calf was laying flat on its side and kicking its back leg. It would get up, walk a few feet away and proceed to try and lay down, which was more of a flop. I watched the calf for about half an hour thinking it had gotten stepped on. I decided to send a video to our long-time Equine Osteopath, Vickie Keam, to ask if there was something that could be done. Vickie lives 3 hours away so she talked me through craniosacral and how to put my hands around the calf’s ears with my thumbs on her forehead and not to squeeze but to just feel and think positive.
While following Vickie’s instructions, I just kept telling myself to think the head needs to go normal. I could feel the slightest shift as her head readjusted. The newborn was standing during this time with her head almost to the floor, after ten minutes she did a big stretch and then another about a minute later, she then walked away from me and laid down like a normal calf, curled up and fell asleep. Pippa walked over to her baby, sniffed her, licked her, and laid down beside her calf and proceeded to chew her cud. Happy momma and calf.
L. Clark, Alberta Rancher
The first 12 hours of the calf’s life.
This is an hour after Prof. Keam talked the owner through craniosacral.
This is 24 hours after receiving craniosacral osteo.
For more information on how you can become an animal osteopath, click here
