Four Leaf Equine/Livestock Massage and Therapy, CEMT, FMT, CBT

08/20/2024

⭐️⭐️Neuro Focus⭐️⭐️

▪️This application will require the 3 inch
tape.
▪️Measure from the middle of the
forehead above the eyes about 2
inches.
▪️Cut your tape on one end creating
fingers leaving 2 inches intact.
▪️Then place the base in the center of the
forehead with fingers facing downward.

▪️Take one of the finger next and go down
the side of the nose on each side
creating an upside down V using %5 to
10% stretch.
▪️Be sure to rub the tape to activate the
adhesive.
▪️This application helps to open the
horse's airways and focus more on the
task at hand.

Want to learn more applications like this? I offer Equine Kinesiology ONLINE Classes with over 30 equine applications an 19 human applications.

My class is also self paced so you can learn on your time.

Message me today with questions or to sign up cany wait to hear from ya!!

08/13/2024

Just alittle FYI!!!!

DID YOU KNOW?:

Horses are biologically designed to eat 20 hours per day. Unlike deer, they are not browsers, they are grazers. Chewing produces saliva, which helps buffer stomach acids. On a pasture/hay diet a horse normally produces up to 10 gallons of saliva per day. When there is less for the horse to eat all day, less saliva is produced which translates into less buffering of the stomach acids. This can result in an increased imbalance of the bacteria in the stomach, and increased production of stomach acid, and thus the potential increase in gastric ulcers. If the stomach becomes more acidic than it should be, gas is produced by bacterial fermentation, and the result can be pain, colic, or even stomach wall rupture.

08/10/2024

⭐️Don't forget to keep those equine athletes moving and feeling their best while out competing this summer!!!

💥Injuries are common all year long as you know horses can hurt themselves in a padded stall but you can try and prevent that with regular maitance such as massage, red light or taping to name a few!

⭐️Located in Chenoa, il ⭐️
**Travel up to 30 miles**

08/02/2024

Equi-Tape® Inc. Holding, the first equine kinesiology tape designed specifically for the equine and also provides online equine kinesiology taping educational courses for horse owners and equine healthcare professionals.

07/19/2024

⭐️Accepting new clients!⭐️

🟣Hey everyone I'm back! However I'm sticking a little closer to home from now on.
🟢That being said I travel up to about 30 miles!

Feel free to reach out with any questions or if you lie to schedule!

Located in Chenoa, IL!

07/17/2024

Equine kinesiology tape (EKT) is a type of elastic adhesive tape used to support and stabilize joints and muscles in horses. It is similar to kinesiology tape used in human sports medicine, but is designed specifically for equine anatomy and needs.

EKT can be used to:

- Provide support and stability to joints and muscles
- Enhance athletic performance
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Improve circulation and reduce swelling
- Support rehabilitation from injury or surgery

It's important to note that EKT should only be applied by a trained professional, such as a veterinarian or equine therapist, as improper application can cause discomfort or even injury to the horse.

07/15/2024

⭐️How will I know if my horse enjoys a massage during a session with the therapist ?⭐️

🟣Horses often display signs of relaxation and comfort during a massage, indicating they are enjoying the experience and benefiting from it. Some common signs include:

1. ▪️Relaxed body language▪️: Lowered head, relaxed ears, and a softening of the eyes.
2. ▪️Sighs and deep breathing▪️: Horses may sigh or breathe deeply, indicating relaxation and release of tension.
3. ▪️Muscle relaxation▪️: The horse's muscles may feel softer and more relaxed under the massage therapist's hands.
4. ▪️Reduced tension▪️: The horse may release tension in specific areas, such as the neck, back, or hindquarters.
5. ▪️Licking and chewing▪️: Horses may lick their lips or chew, indicating relaxation and contentment.
6. ▪️Yawning▪️: Yawning is a common sign of relaxation in horses.
7. ▪️Leaning into the massage▪️: Horses may lean into the massage therapist's hands, indicating comfort and trust.
8. ▪️Relaxed tail swishing▪️: A relaxed tail swish can indicate the horse is feeling calm and comfortable.
9. ▪️Closing eyes▪️: Horses may close their eyes, indicating they feel safe and relaxed.
10. ▪️Improved mood▪️: The horse may become more alert and engaged, with a improved overall mood.

💥Keep in mind that every horse is different, and some may show subtle signs of relaxation, while others may be more obvious. A trained equine massage therapist can read these signs and adjust the massage accordingly.💥

07/13/2024

⭐️Why equine massage?⭐️

Equine massage is beneficial for horses for several reasons:

1. ▪️Relaxation and stress relief▪️: Massage helps calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.
2. ▪️Muscle relaxation and pain relief▪️: Massage eases muscle tension, reducing pain and discomfort.
3. ▪️Improved flexibility and range of motion▪️: Massage increases joint mobility and flexibility.
4. ▪️Enhanced circulation and lymphatic drainage▪️: Massage improves blood flow and lymphatic system function.
5. ▪️Improved performance and recovery▪️: Massage can enhance athletic performance and reduce recovery time.
6. ▪️Reduced muscle spasms and cramping▪️: Massage helps alleviate muscle spasms and cramping.
7. ▪️Improved mental well-being▪️: Massage can help reduce anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of calm and well-being.
8. ▪️Supports rehabilitation▪️: Massage can aid in the recovery process after injury or surgery.

Equine massage can be beneficial for horses of all ages and disciplines, from performance horses to companions. It's a great

06/28/2024

Lord knows summer is here and all of us are prolly still working on clients with all the horse shows and rodeos going on. If you see a horse acting odd it could be the heat and they could be going into heat stress be aware and alert !!

06/26/2024

Remember hosing horses an leaving them in the sun does not help them and causes more harm then good!!

06/24/2024

Solid reminder as we are in hay season

06/24/2024

⭐️It's summer time please take a few extra minutes to check your equine over !!⭐️

06/21/2024

🤣I guess that's one way to pick your show colors!🤣

06/20/2024

06/17/2024

⭐️Equine kinesiology, also known as equine movement therapy, is a holistic approach to understanding and influencing the movement and behavior of horses. The importance of equine kinesiology lies in its ability to:

▪️Improve performance: By analyzing and optimizing movement patterns, equine kinesiology can enhance a horse's athletic ability, agility, and overall performance.

▪️Prevent injuries: Identifying and addressing movement imbalances and compensations can help prevent injuries and reduce the risk of lameness.

▪️Enhance rehabilitation: Equine kinesiology plays a crucial role in rehabilitation programs, helping horses recover from injuries or surgery by promoting proper movement and reducing the risk of re-injury.

▪️Improve horse-rider interaction: By understanding the horse's movement and behavior, riders can improve their communication, balance, and coordination, leading to a more harmonious and effective partnership.

▪️ Support overall well-being: Equine kinesiology considers the horse's physical, emotional, and mental well-being, promoting a holistic approach to horse care and management.

⭐️By understanding the intricacies of equine movement and behavior, equine kinesiology can significantly impact the health, performance, and quality of life for horses.

06/12/2024

🐎The benefits of equine massage include....🐎

▪️Improved circulation: Equine massage stimulates blood flow, bringing oxygenated blood and nutrients to the tissues of the horse’s body
▪️Improved flexibility: Equine massage can loosen tight muscles and improve flexibility, allowing the horse to move more freely and comfortably
▪️Pain relief: Equine massage can help reduce pain and discomfort in horses
▪️Stress reduction: Equine massage can help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels in horses
▪️Improved performance: Equine massage can help improve a horse’s performance in activities such as racing, jumping, or dressage by addressing muscular imbalances and promoting relaxation and flexibility.

06/07/2024

👀Looking for an extra edge?👀
Maybe your experiencing sudden change in behavior with you equine?
Just looking to keep them supple ?

Let's talk about the therapies I offer and see what best benefits your horse an situation!!
I offer an array of services listed below that can be done on most any animals from cats, dogs, livestock and horses.

⭐Services Available ⭐
▪️Massage
▪️Magnetic Pulsing
▪️Red Light
▪️Kinesiology Taping

Feel free to reach out with any questions or to scheudule...
Located in Chenoa, IL
** Travel up to 30 miles**

05/28/2024

⭐️Hello everyone!
Allow me to reintroduce myself for those of your that do not know me. My name is Megan I have been in the horse industry for over 30 years. I currently still own three horses all of which have some kind of physical issue. I essentially started this because one of my horses had a physical issue and it blossomed from there. In 2014 I became certified in equine massage and by early spring I started what is now Four Leaf. Over the course of 7 years I have worked with animals and people all over the U.S. in spring of 2016 I became certified in equine kinesiology taping which I later on built a course to teach equine kinesiology taping and still do today. Mid summer of 2016 I had a freak accident whare I was kicked in the face by a horse and, wouldn't you just know it by late winter of 2017 I went on to become certified in barefoot hoof trimming. In 2021 I had to step back for some personal reasons so could take care of life situations for a while without the need to be gone a large portion of the time. Since then I have continued my own education and started teaching equine kinesiology classes online again. Things have since quieted down more allowing me to feel I can finally come back to practice.

Coming back will have changes going forward with travel distance and options I provide service wise. Since I have also helped animals and owners all over the U.S. both physically and virtually I will also now be offering video reviews and consult sessions virtually which will allow me to continue to help owners and animals across the country!!!

I can't wait to see what a new year brings !!

Sincerely,

Megan

05/23/2024

⭐️⭐️Stifle Applications ⭐️⭐️

💥Taping an equine stifle requires careful consideration and attention to detail. Here's a step-by-step guide:

⭐️Materials needed:⭐️

- Kinesiology tape (preferably equine-specific)
- Scissors
- Tape cutter or razor blade (optional)
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Gauze or underwrap (optional)

*Step-by-Step Instructions:*

1. *Prepare the area:* Clean and dry the stifle area. Remove any dirt, hair, or oils.
2. *Apply underwrap (optional):* If your horse has sensitive skin, apply a thin layer of gauze or underwrap to protect the skin.
3. *Measure and cut the tape:* Measure the circumference of the stifle joint. Cut two strips of tape, each about 10-12 inches long.
4. *Apply the first strip:* Starting at the top of the stifle, apply the tape in a circular motion, moving downwards. Apply moderate tension.
5. *Apply the second strip:* Starting at the bottom of the stifle, apply the tape in a circular motion, moving upwards. Apply moderate tension.
6. *Secure the tape:* Use a small piece of tape to secure the ends of the strips together.
7. *Check and adjust:* Check the tape for wrinkles, bubbles, or excessive tension. Adjust as needed.

*Tips and Considerations:*

- Apply the tape in a way that provides support without restricting movement.
- Avoid applying too much tension, which can cause discomfort or even injury.
- Consult a veterinarian or equine professional if you're unsure about taping your horse's stifle.

Remember to always prioritize your horse's comfort and safety. If you're unsure about any aspect of the process, consult a professional for guidance.

05/12/2024

Happy Mothers Day!!

04/11/2024

⭐️How Does Red Light Therapy Work⭐️

Red light therapy for horses works by absorbing red light into multiple layers of soft tissue, speeding up the formation of new capillaries. This results in increased circulation and blood flow. It can help speed healing from soft tissue injuries, wounds, or other inflammation causes. Collagen is also increased when using light therapy, which can result in reduced scar tissue buildup during the healing process.

⚡️Common horse injuries and issues that can benefit from red light therapy for horses are:

💥Arthritis
💥Laminitis
💥Navicular
💥Tendon Injuries
💥Bone Bruising
💥Splits
💥Abscesses
💥Muscle Strains and Swelling
💥Inflammation
💥Sore Backs or Necks
💥Wounds, Abrasions, Cuts

Endorphins are also released during light therapy, which can help relax muscles and fight pain. Still, some riders have reported it to have a natural calming effect on their horse, which is especially beneficial before training or competition and for horses on stall-rest for an injury.

Source
https://www.sstack.com/blog/international/what-is-red-light-therapy-for-horses/b/r0105/

04/03/2024

⚡️Hey everyone there's a wonderful benefit coming up in May supporting The American Horse Trials Fondation . Please take a moment an check it out.⚡️

⭐️Please reach out to Elizabeth Harrington Elizabeth Harringt to purchase your ticket !!!⭐️

03/31/2024

🐤🐣Happy Easter Everyone 🐣🐤

08/12/2023

⭐️Don't forget to keep those equine athletes moving and feeling their best while out competing this summer!!!

💥Injuries are common all year long as you know horses can hurt themselves in a padded stall but you can try and prevent that with regular maitance such as massage, red light or taping to name a few!

⭐️Located in Chenoa, il ⭐️
**Travel up to 30 miles**

Helping Owners and Animals