Moxley's Animal Massage Agency

10/10/2024

Before and after. This horse experienced lower back pain behind the saddle, which began when the barn started feeding him from a hay bag to reduce hay loss. During his first massage, I suggested feeding him on the ground in addition to regular massage. After three weeks, his back pain and swelling showed significant improvement.

09/01/2024

Before and after of Indy. I have been working with Indy for almost a year. He is in his alte 20s. After this massage he was able to stand evenly on both hind legs.

08/20/2024

Riley Elizabeth's Sage had a nice long massage. You can really see the difference in the before (top pictures) and after (bottom pictures), especially in her neck leaving her shoulders as well as her back. Be sure to book your equine part a massage today.

08/12/2024

Harlan has been dealing with lameness on the front right since pulling a shoe a few months ago. The pictures on the left are before his shoulder massage. The pictures are after the massage. Heather Page Stock

08/03/2024

I had the joy of working with this lovely boy today. He was very antsy when we started with lots of moving and pawing. Almost all the time I will allow horses to express themselves how they want during our session rather than force them to stand still or act how I think they should.

I started with gentle touch down the bladder median as I do with most of my sessions. I was not surprised that it took me almost an hour to get this done on both sides. By the end he was starting to relax so I stepped away to let him think. I continue to work on him and he began to physically show me where he wanted/need attention. After two hours total of working with him he was no longer pawing and was actually falling asleep. The owner, Melissa Boyer, took a lesson afterwards and texted me "He was amazing. He is looser in his stifles and could actually do some lateral work, and his brain was in such a good place."

I love working with what people call problem horses or horses who do not express themselves in typical ways. I have been bit, kicked at and even charged at while working with horses. Almost every time a horse has reacted in they are releasing some long held onto tension or they have never learned how to properly interact with the world. I do not get after these horses (unless it is obvious they are just being rude or taking advantage) instead i try to find a safe, reassuring way to work with them. I can't wait to work on this guy again.

05/24/2024

This lovely quarter horse was present at the Missouri Quarter Horse Association Gateway Classic Show but wasn't in top form. After a two-hour session of my special show, he was much happier and showed excellent horsemanship.

Missouri Quarter Horse Association

05/23/2024

I had the privilege of working on Katrina, a former lesson horse who has since found her forever home. After the massage, her owner Marla noticed an improvement in Kat's trot, which was more springy and forward-moving.

05/22/2024

Join us at The National Equestrian Center for the Missouri Quarter Horse Association show this weekend and treat your horse to a relaxing massage.

The National Equestrian Center Missouri Quarter Horse Association

05/20/2024

We will be at this show and can't wait to see all the competitors. Let us know if you want to book a massage.

05/17/2024

I just love how science is allowing us to provide better care for our horses.

05/16/2024

Good morning everyone. I will be offering my show special at UPHA Chapter V Horse Show this weekend. Good luck to all the competitors.

05/15/2024

Massage significantly benefited Sugar, as seen in her stretching her back leg on her own for the first time in years. The difference in her body and expression is noticeable in the before, after, and current photos.

05/08/2024

Another before and after.

05/07/2024

Winter is an endurance pony I had the pleasure of working on this last week. As horses relax the muscles along their spin and croup the tail will natural rise.

05/07/2024

Mr. Elliot had a rough day yesterday and needed a little TLC. You can really see the difference in his eye and facial expressions.

04/21/2024

04/21/2024

Understanding Equine Emergencies: The Risks of a Cast Horse

The Urgency of a Cast Horse Situation

Immediate Action Required: When a horse becomes cast and unable to rise after lying down, immediate action is crucial. The immense weight of a horse can quickly lead to severe injuries, including damage to skin, muscles, and nerves. Poor blood circulation and compromised respiration add to the urgency, increasing the risk of muscle crush injuries and nerve damage, which can occur in as little as an hour.

How Horses Stand Up

The Mechanics of Rising: To stand, a horse needs to tuck its hind legs underneath and stretch its forelimbs forward. This allows the horse to rock and push up to a standing position, hindering their natural movement ifthey are too close to a wall or obstacle.

Cushioning for Chronic Casters

For horses who tend to become cast or "chronic casters," strategically using deeply bedded stalls is a comfort and a necessary safeguard. These thick layers of bedding act as a protective buffer, reducing the impact on the horse's body if they become cast and struggle to right themselves. This preventive approach minimizes the risk of contusions, abrasions, and more serious musculoskeletal injuries during a frantic attempt to stand.

Post-Cast Care

Veterinary Evaluation: If a horse has been cast for a significant or unknown period, consult your veterinarian to assess potential nerve or muscle damage.

Common Causes for Casting in Horses

Spatial Awareness: Some horses may inadvertently become cast due to a lack of attention to their surroundings when lying down.

Colic and Discomfort: Colic or other forms of discomfort can lead to a horse becoming cast as they lie down and struggle to find a comfortable position.

Inherent Tendencies: Some horses may frequently become cast due to their innate, less-than-calculated movements or spatial awareness. These horses require extra attention and preventive measures to safeguard against casting.

Take Away Message

Understanding and responding promptly to the needs of a cast horse is important in preventing serious injury. Recognizing the signs and knowing how to manage these situations safely can make all the difference in ensuring your and their well-being.