Topline Animal Services and Rehab

11/22/2024

(This post is flagged as ai generated, but it's only because I asked meta ai to generate a picture of dog bodywork)

Those of you that responded on my dog drive 2024/25:

I'm still trying to get you all on the schedule. If you haven't heard from me, you will by the end of Thanksgiving week. That will give me the time I need to get the last little bits together. I'd also like to have some of you come to the dog room at the rehab center(in Jan or later, I know it will be cold) for some really great pictures and documentation once everything is all set up.

I loaned my sweet friend some equipment and it hasn't made its way back yet so that's part of the delay. Those of you that have tplo dogs will need me to use it, but I can get by with different equipment until it gets back.

If you didn't comment for me to see your dog before I time stamped it as over, you are welcome to comment here to see if you may be eligible for some free sessions once we get the rehab center open in january.

Don't forget, I'll be posting my biggest ever black Friday sale this coming Tuesday, the 26th.

11/21/2024

Hey yall don't forget about tea time!

Only a few spots left!

FRIDAY, DEC 6, 2024
11am-2pm
Cu***ng, GA

📣 Join Us for Tea Time & Hot Topics in Bodywork! ☕️

Are you curious about bodywork techniques, controversial topics, or just want a space to ask those burning questions? Then this is your chance! Let's talk shop, spill some tea, dive into discussions, and explore all things bodywork in an open, judgment-free environment.

Madison Gravitt Walls is your contact for registration and other information.

🎤Come ready to pick my brain! Topics will depend on your questions, so bring your curiosity, and let’s talk about it all.🎤

Limited seats – Register soon! Contact Madison for more information and to secure your spot!

11/21/2024

!!!ONE MORE TIME FOR THE PEOPLE WAY WAY IN THE BACK OF THE ROOM!!!

I know I just made a Hot Topic Tuesday post, but this needs to be said again:

VET YOUR PROFESSIONALS, VET YOUR PROFESSIONALS, VET YOUR PROFESSIONALS....
ONCE YOU'VE DONE THAT, ASK THEM SOME QUESTIONS.

The professionals you CHOOSE to pay to service your animals should have at the very least a basic knowledge and at the very least one certification. They should be knowledgeable and confident and should be able to answer any and all questions about themselves, their knowledge, and their skillset within their wheel well. If they can't answer questions and tell you they will find the answer and you can readdress that, this is a good and appropriate answer. If you ask them a question and they yell at you, belittle you, or call you profane names because you had the nerve to ask them why they do things a certain way? STOP USING THEM WITH THE QUICKNESS. If you ask two professionals to connect to help you or your animal and one refuses? STOP USING THEM WITH THE QUICKNESS. If one professional gets inflamed because another professional approaches them about a mutual client in a helpful manner, yells at and calls the other professional profane names?

STOP USING THEM. WITH. THE. QUICKNESS.
These people may be called professionals, but if they can't be professional you are wasting your hard earned money.

There are shortages, I get it. But still VET YOUR PROFESSIONALS. Some of us spend our lives in continuing education to ensure you get the very best care. Some of us? Just get one certification and one piece of equipment and do not learn anything further. Some of us, do one thing and do it very well, but don't adapt with the times. Some of us? Just watch you tube, buy some horses or equipment and start drawing checks.

Me personally, I'm on the staying in continuing ed. I don't know anyother way to be. There is nothing wrong with anyone that gets only one certification. There is nothing wrong with using someone knowledgeable and trustworthy, who does one thing and does it well. There is however a problem with someone presenting themselves with training they do not have with people they don't know or characters they've made up in order to appease your questions. I take a big issue with people who have no education in the field they are in trying to change the industry with new ways of creating a wheel.

But Just fyi, If they are a chiropractor, they will need their state license also. This is easily checked on any state board licensing site. IF they are telling you they are a chiropractor and you go to the state board site, and their name isn't there, their pants are on fire from all the lying they're doing. If they have never been licensed, the state board search will tell you there's no available information or it can't find that person. If it does find it and they have lost their license or not renewed, the state board will tell you that and the dates they had a problem or the last date they renewed. IF YOU ARE USING SOMEONE YOU CANNOT FIND ON THE STATE SITE, THEY ARE NOT LICENSED AND NOT INSURED WHEN THEY HURT YOU OR YOUR ANIMAL.

Just FYI, walking around telling other people you are a chiropractor, and then proceeding to adjust human beings and animals is a federal offense: Practicing Medicine without a license. It carries a hefty fine and a prison sentence.

This concludes the revamp of many years of me asking you to vet your professionals.
Happy Thirsty Thursday.

11/20/2024

!!Hot Topic Tuesday!!!

High-Low syndrome in horses: Causes and long-term effects.

What is high-low syndrome? High-low syndrome refers to a mismatch in a horse's front hooves. One hoof is upright and boxy (high), and the other is flat and underrun (low).This condition often results from poor management, improper trimming, and inconsistent training.

Causes: A human-made problem
*Improper farriery: poor trimming or shoeing practices that fail to balance the hooves contribute directly to the asymmetry. (this counter point deserves its own hot topic Tuesday...don't get me started.)
*incorrect stall/turnout practices: Limited turnout or repetitive standing in unnatural positions in stalls exacerbates uneven weight distribution.
*Unbalanced riding: riders who are unbalanced, use improper tack, or allow horses to compensate for poor posture contribute to uneven weight bearing on the forelimbs.
*Neglecting early intervention: Failing to address minor imbalances during foalhood or young horse training leads to long term asymmetry.

Negative effects on the body
*Joint stress and arthritis: Uneven loading on the limbs leads to premature wear on joints, especially in the shoulders, knees, and pasterns.
*Spinal misalignment: the imbalance affects the horse's topline, creating tension in the back, neck, and hindquarters.
*Uneven musculature: Horses develop uneven shoulder and chest muscles, leading to a compromised range of motion.
*Chronic Pain: High low syndrome often results in long term discomfort leading to behavioral issues and resistance during training.
*Performance decline: Horse with this condition may exhibit lameness, decreased stride length, and an inability to perform at higher levels.
*Increased risk of injury: Unequal limb loading makes tendons and ligaments more susceptible to strain or tears.

Why is this a human error?
well...
Horses don't trim themselves. The hoof imbalance originates from humans failing to properly address the horse's natural growth pattens.

Management choices matter: A horse's environment, workload, and routine are entirely dictated by humans. If these factors promote imbalances, the responsibility lies with the owner.

Neglected Education: Many horse owners and some professionals lack the understanding to recognize and address early signs of high low syndomes. (Neglected education could one day be a hot topic topic...)

Key takeaways:
High low syndrome is a systemic issue affecting the entire body
Left uncheck it creates a cascade of chronic health and performance challenges
Prevention and correction require educated farriers, trainer, and owners who prioritize balanced movement and proper management.

Blame the humans, not the horse. High low syndrome reflects poor choices, not the horses genetics.

Strong opinions backed by strong results: fix the management and you'll fix the horse.

11/18/2024

Interesting read!

Inside the navicular bone
When we talk about navicular syndrome it’s not always as clear cut as the deep digital flexor tendon getting damaged where it glides over the navicular bone. It’s not the navicular bones flexor surface getting damaged - the face that provides a slippery gliding surface for the deep digital tendon to move across.

These 2 things are only part of the syndrome and they may or may not occur!

Inside the navicular bone itself is a network of “struts” of bone, like scaffolding. It’s not irregular either. It’s perfectly placed for the flow of the forces when the foot hits the ground in simple terms.

The struts line up with the lines of force, can you see it?

They are aligned parallel with the lines of major compressive or tensile force. They provide a complex series of cross-braced interior struts inside the navicular bone.

This internal part can also change in navicular syndrome. It can be seen in radiograph (X-ray). In severe cases it looks like it’s turned to solid bone. It’s called sclerosis.

This is a beautiful photo ©️ Lindsey Field that demonstrates perfectly the struts - more properly called trabeculae. If you would like a copy of my photo it is available for a donation to my research. Please don’t steal it 🙏.

This is something I discussed many times in my navicular class last week.

I have just edited the recording of the class and if you would like to purchase a copy please send me an email

[email protected]

There should be a layer of compact bone in this sample, at the ends by the deep digital flexor tendon, but it’s not super clear however I think this bone is from a youngster, from memory.

My showcase of my hoof and whole horse dissections:
http://www.patreon.com/hoofstudies

Shop my website: https://hoofstudies.com

Thank you to my sponsors❤️

Holistic Equine:
https://www.holisticequine.co.uk/

Farrier Speciality products- https://fsphorse.com

Catherine Seingry - https://catherineseingry-equiholistique.fr

The Donkey farrier
http://www.donkeyhooves.com

Melissa La Flamme - https://www.espacechevalmoderne.com

Lighthoof Mud Control Grids Fix Your Muddy Horse Paddocks Forever - https://www.lighthoof.com

Hoof Doctor/Equine one - https://equine.one, https://hoofdoctor.ca

Heike Veit
http://www.gesundehufe.ch/

Areion Academy
https:/www.areion.com
Equine Podiatry and Barefoot Trimming Education - Areion

11/16/2024

What do these 4 horses have in common?

Nothing, except they belong to my clients and I used my Veterinary Thermography knowledge to narrow some things down and investigate further.

This is such a useful and often underused tool in bodywork of every kind.

But what exactly is it and what am I looking for? As always, glad you asked!

Veterinary thermography uses infrared technology to detect heat patterns and blood flow, giving insight into your animal's health. I have used this on horses, cows, donkeys, goats, dogs, and even a llama.

The color map tells the story.
>White: extremely high heat, inflammation, or even infection.
>Red/Yellow: High heat, often linked to inflammation or increased blood flow.
>Blue/Green: Cooler areas, indicating reduced blood flow or chronic issues.

This powerful, non-invasive tool helps:

11/14/2024

Large and Small Animal Cancer... therapeutic options such as red light therapy, Bemer therapy, PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy), craniosacral therapy, acupoint therapy, infrared light therapy, cryotherapy, chiropractic care, and equiscope all offer supportive care to improve quality of life and manage symptoms. Each modality has unique benefits when cancer is present.

When Melanie contacted me about Lobo (who was diagnosed by uga), I knew I had some tools that would help but I wasn't sure what exactly I had that would be useful, no exactly how to use what I have. I got on the horn and talked people's ears off trying to help him. I am thankful to Melanie allowing me to do more research and keep detailed notes on logo's progress in order to help other horses like him.

Below are my notes in summary of each therapy's benefits in the context of equine cancer and rehab, exactly as I wrote them (no thwy arent complete sentences. They are my actual thoughts as I wrote them):

1. Red Light Therapy Promotes cellular healing and reduces inflammation. Alleviates pain and supports immune function by stimulating blood flow and cellular repair.

2. Bemer Therapy
Benefits: Enhances circulation and oxygenation, improving overall energy and reducing fatigue. It aids the body’s natural healing processes by enhancing microcirculation. In cases where radiation treatment is necessary, Bemer is proven to prevent damage to the DNA caused by radiation.

3. PEMF Therapy
Helps manage pain, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in soft tissues, which is especially useful for palliative care in horses with cancer.

4. Craniosacral Therapy
This gentle therapy helps reduce pain, alleviate stress, and support the horse’s overall comfort by balancing the nervous system.

5. Acupoint Therapy (Acupressure/Acupuncture)
Helps with pain management, improves energy flow, and supports immune function. It is often used to address nausea, discomfort, and stress, which is beneficial in cancer cases.

6. Infrared Therapy
Useful for pain relief, reducing muscle stiffness, and promoting circulation in areas away from tumor sites. It helps alleviate discomfort and improve mobility in many cases.

7. Cryotherapy
Helps reduce localized pain, inflammation, and swelling, which is beneficial for pain management in cancer cases. Cryotherapy may also slow down metabolic activity in certain cells, potentially helping manage inflammation without stimulating tumor growth.

8. Chiropractic Therapy
Chiropractic care improves mobility, reduces pain, and restores balance to the musculoskeletal system. It also relieves stress and improves quality of life by addressing compensatory strains caused by reduced physical activity.

9. EquiScope
The EquiScope’s microcurrent therapy targets pain receptors and reduces discomfort, offering a non-invasive alternative for pain management. Helps decrease inflammation by regulating electrical activity in cells. Microcurrents promote healthy blood flow, which is helpful in horses experiencing poor circulation due to inactivity. Enhanced circulation supports oxygen delivery and waste removal in cells.
Stimulates the body's natural healing processes. Supports cellular waste dispersal. Aims to restore normal electrical currents within cells, supporting the repair of soft tissues and skin. Has a calming effect, reducing stress.

The veterinary thermography, or heat sensitive imaging, is an amazing tool for me to help identify angry and/or irritated cells. This has been an invaluable tool for many cases.

I am so excited to be able to help Lobo and other horses just like him, and I am blessed to have a network in place to continue making plans for even more, and better, levels of rehab.

11/13/2024

Working on some Thankful Thanksgiving and black Friday give aways and sales. I've got some good goodies for you guys!

I don't know how many of you I have mentioned 2025 to, but just so we are clear:
*no price increases until AT LEAST summer, but hopefully not at all
*still offering haul ins (with increased availability due to the rehab center being open)
*from this month moving forward, I am moving my appointments around to accommodate the rehab center. I'm hoping to be on the road no more than 3 short days a week. Yes, I'm keeping all of you on schedule and still have room for a few more. Looking at my routes it will be a simple process but because there are so many of you, it may take some time to work out the kinks. Thank you all in advance for your patience.

In addition to the above...

Have you noticed Anything Different?

If you see me with a shadow or two in tow, don’t worry – it’s just my potential interns learning how I work! Once I get my schedule adjusted, I'm hoping at least one of them will soon be stepping up to take on new clients/overflow travel appointments (if you're on my schedule now and add on before Jan 15, you will stay on my schedule) and keep services smooth and accessible for everyone.

Thank you all for your continued support as we grow and improve! Keep an eye out for these new faces in the field – they’re excited to meet and work with each of you! 🐾💪

11/13/2024

Hot Topic Tuesday, 2 hours early!

Let's just talk about the elephant in the room: horse people and their numerous and diverse opinions about evvvvvveeerrrryyy thing...shall we?

I have concerns with anyone asking for opinions. It grates me when someone asks me if I have an opinion about anything.

Yes. We all have opinions. Yes we share them freely. I have no problem with that.

My problem is that at least 60% of the time, there is a resounding difference in an opinion and an experience.

My experience with people and their opinions has been that there are people sitting on couches telling someone how their horse needs its feet trimmed. There are people who watch YouTube and have no practical education or experience on many topics that they seem to be experts in.

Notice that I said EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE. Again, these are two different things.

I am well versed in what it takes to make a running horse turn sharper or get lower to the ground to sort cows. Do I own a running horse? Nope. Have I turned a barrel in my life? Exactly one time. It's just not my thing. Do I have experience sorting? A limited amount. I have a lifetime experience and education with most things horses, which gives me an opinion based on my experience.

The fact that I can prove my opinion with skills earned over those years and education is what seperates me from others with no experience but a lot of opinions. They are a dime a dozen.

If I post a picture of a horse and say she randomly started bucking this week, here's the peanut gallery commentary:
"That's dangerous behavior. Must've been weaned too early." (Someone who is using google to determine why horses crib but has no valuable input for this topic.)
"It's kissing spine. Find a good surgeon." (Someone who's sister's cousin's aunts best friend knew someone who freaked out over a tiny spot of Kissing spine and opted for surgery instead of checking saddle fit and staying on top of things because she didnt have the time, but she did have the money.)
"Judging from her feet, she's got high low or contracted heels so let's get a farrier out." (Someone who has a horse with terrible thrush.)
"Her saddle might not fit." (Someone that was recently told their saddle didn't fit)
"From this picture it looks like the saddle is pinching her backbones." (You can't possibly tell that on a side view.)
"My horse did this when I made her wear purple." (Clearly simple Sally is smoking some devil's lettuce and doesn't like purple herself)
"She obviously has arthritis in her poll." (Well, how we would know that from a picture I have no clue but I have seen this comment before)
"Check those short pasterns for dsld on the front" (dsld on the front only in a non gaited horse would be extremely rare but here we are)
"Call a vet this is serious." (Probably should have done that before you posted on the book face)

Clearly this is a bit exaggerated and clearly I'm not all that serious when I am poking fun of the commenter and YouTube couch professional. We've all got a lane, and I'm fine with that.

The list goes on and on. How can people without my level of education and experience make a decision when the guidance is so varied? They can't. Because everyone is an internet expert.

How about if we only answer these questions when we have experience with things listed on a post? How about we start looking at the profile of people giving the advice?

How about everyone just stay in their lanes.

If you're not a vet, do not give medical advice.

If you're not a farrier or have the experience AND education, don't you dare tell someone how to have their horses feet done.

If you're not a barrel racer, do not tell them to collect their horses up like a dressage horse.

If you don't work cattle, don't tell someone when to pick up their reins.

If you're not knowledgeable in something or you have NO experience, just don't comment.

Or when people do comment and it sounds like an educated answer, click on their profile and see what they are about. In today's world, everyone is an expert. In everything.

And no one is vetting the people who claim to be experts.

Too much information is not a good thing. It drowns out the important things when you don't know who to listen to.

Horse people are no exception to the rule about opinions and bum holes. Everyone's got one. Some are just full of crap.

All in fun guys, I'm just the messenger
Love yall.

Huge things happening at the rehab center...I'll update soon.

11/09/2024

Just bumping this back to the top.

Still have spots available for the chiropractor Tues Nov 12 in the morning if anyone wants them

Our amazing chiropractor will be here Tuesday, Nov 12 at 8am. The first 2 appointments for him are taken already.

I had a trailer of 4 horses drop off the schedule, so they are free for the taking if anyone wants them.

*you don't have to be an existing client of mine or his and you don't have to become one of mine to meet him here at our facilities.

*if you want to schedule an appointment with me for bodywork, I also have openings.

Just let me know if you want a spot. I'll let you know when they are all full.

Here or 404-877-8571
Www.toplineanimalservices.com

11/08/2024

Our amazing chiropractor will be here Tuesday, Nov 12 at 8am. The first 2 appointments for him are taken already.

I had a trailer of 4 horses drop off the schedule, so they are free for the taking if anyone wants them.

*you don't have to be an existing client of mine or his and you don't have to become one of mine to meet him here at our facilities.

*if you want to schedule an appointment with me for bodywork, I also have openings.

Just let me know if you want a spot. I'll let you know when they are all full.

Here or 404-877-8571
Www.toplineanimalservices.com

11/07/2024

Have a few (not many) appointment times available for haul ins:

Friday, Nov 15-morning

Thursday, Nov 21-
Midday and afternoon.

Remember these appointments are full sessions, but done at a haul-in rate of 75 each. These spaces go fast, so be sure and grab them while they are available.

If these days don't work for you and you want to haul in, just let me know. These prices are not subject to change.

11/06/2024

FRIDAY, DEC 6, 2024
11am-2pm
Cu***ng, GA

📣 Join Us for Tea Time & Hot Topics in Bodywork! ☕️

Are you curious about bodywork techniques, controversial topics, or just want a space to ask those burning questions? Then this is your chance! Let's talk shop, spill some tea, dive into discussions, and explore all things bodywork in an open, judgment-free environment.

Madison Gravitt Walls is your contact for registration and other information.

🎤Come ready to pick my brain! Topics will depend on your questions, so bring your curiosity, and let’s talk about it all.🎤

Limited seats – Register soon! Contact Madison for more information and to secure your spot!

11/05/2024

Hot Topic Tuesday

Cribbing: Vice, Symptom, or Call for Help?

One of the most controversial topics in the equine world—cribbing. Is it just a bad habit, or could it be a symptom of something deeper? And what about the lasting impacts on their health and comfort?

For those unfamiliar, cribbing (or “wind-sucking”) is when a horse bites onto a surface, arches its neck, and pulls back, producing a distinct gulping sound. Opinions on cribbing are divided—some argue it's purely behavioral, while others suggest it may stem from diet, environment, or even physical discomfort. Here's what we know so far:

>> Weaning Stress & Early Diet: I have heard all my life that cribbing starts when they are weaned. And I believe it to be true. Transitioning to a high-concentrate diet with limited forage can be hard on young horses, possibly increasing stomach acid and discomfort. Cribbing may be their way of coping with digestive stress.

>> Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Studies link cribbing to gastric ulcers, which could mean that horses use this behavior to self-soothe when they experience pain or discomfort in the gut. New research suggests that the ulcers cribbing horses are being treated for are actually NOT caused by cribbing but have been there and were the cause of cribbing to begin with.

>>Limited Enrichment: Horses, especially young ones, need ample turnout, socialization, and forage. Confinement or boredom may encourage cribbing as an outlet for their energy and stress.

>> Possible Behavioral Modeling: While debated, some believe foals might pick up cribbing from other horses, but it seems more like a biologically driven response to stress than a learned habit. While this is suggested, I have personally owned 3 horses that cribbed AND had them at my boarding facilities over the years I have never found this to be the case.

But here’s the part often overlooked: the physical toll cribbing can take on a horse’s body. Many horses that crib experience increased wear and tear on their musculoskeletal system over time. Regular maintenance becomes essential for their comfort and health. Here are some common issues:

+Cervical Misalignment: The repetitive arching of the neck while cribbing can put strain on the cervical spine. Many cribbers may benefit from chiropractic adjustments or bodywork to realign and reduce tension in the neck.

+ Front Knee Strain: The physical exertion involved in pulling back while gripping can put stress on the front legs, particularly the knees. Over time, cribbing may contribute to joint discomfort, inflammation, or even arthritic changes, making routine joint care essential.

+ Dental Wear: Cribbing also causes excessive wear on the incisors. Horses that crib may need more frequent dental care to keep their teeth balanced and prevent pain when eating.

Where do you stand on cribbing? Is it a manageable behavior, a warning sign of deeper issues, or something that should be discouraged at all costs? Let's talk





https://youtu.be/Pwo7-0vRIOU?si=_9TZ61PUXUucZgcr

11/02/2024

Still shaping up the website with final details, but I've worked so hard on this I just had to share!

Exciting News! 🎉 We’re counting down to the January launch of Georgia's ONLY bodywork-based, in-house rehab facility for horses! 🐴💪

While I'm still polishing up the website, here’s a sneak peek of what’s coming:

🏠 Facilities

8 spacious 14x16 stalls and 4 comfortable 10x12 stalls for our equine guests

1 dog rehab stall available by appointment 🐶

Our Treehouse Classroom for clinics, seminars, and private consultations

Small covered rehab arena and covered roundpen

Educational Events All Year :
We have an incredible lineup of educational clinics, classes, and seminars planned for 2025—perfect for anyone passionate about learning the latest in equine health and rehab!

You’ll still find me at all my regular appointments, plus I’ll continue to welcome haul-ins to our facility.

I have built a supportive community of professionals, offering services that include:
✨ Cryotherapy
✨ Chiropractic care
✨ PEMF and Equi-Scope technicians
✨ Nutrition experts, veterinarians, and more
✨ Treadmill access (with transportation available)
✨osteopaths and naturalpaths

Together, we're bringing a comprehensive, top-tier approach to equine wellness in Georgia! Stay tuned for updates, and reach out if you'd like to be part of this exciting new chapter, or to get on the books!

So excited to serve you all in every way imaginable to keep those athletes top notch with our top notch facility and network!

Take a gander