TriCross Equine Chiropractic

09/15/2025

I'll be in Wheatland at the clinic this Friday afternoon and I have a couple more appointments available.
Text 307-630-4559

09/02/2025

Equine chiropractic care is an effective, non-invasive way to support your horse’s musculoskeletal health and overall performance. By addressing restrictions in the spine and joints, chiropractic adjustments can:

✅ Improve mobility and range of motion
✅ Support balance and coordination
✅ Relieve stiffness and discomfort
✅ Enhance athletic performance and recovery

Whether your horse is in competition, training, or simply a valued partner, maintaining proper alignment is key to their comfort and long-term soundness.

📅 Now accepting new clients. Contact us to schedule an appointment and learn how chiropractic care can benefit your horse.

07/20/2025

If You Only Ride on Good Days, You’ll Never Have a Good Horse

Look, I get it.

It’s cold. Or it’s hot. Or it’s windy. Maybe your horse is feeling fresh. Maybe you’re feeling tired. Maybe you had a long day at work, or your back is sore, or your schedule got away from you. Maybe you just don’t feel like it today.

But let me tell you something that doesn’t get said enough:

If you only ride on good days, you’ll never have a good horse.

Because the truth is, consistency trumps comfort. Horses don’t get trained on the days you feel like it. They get trained on the days you show up — especially when you don’t.

Training Isn’t a Special Occasion
Training isn’t something you do once a week when the weather is perfect and the birds are singing. It’s not a special occasion. It’s not a vacation destination. It’s a daily investment.

And I’m not talking about riding six hours a day, seven days a week. That’s not realistic. I’m talking about showing up consistently. About doing something, even if it’s small. About putting in reps that matter. About not letting three, four, five days go by with that horse sitting idle — especially if that horse is still learning, still developing, or still working through problems.

Because every day you skip? That horse is learning something anyway. Horses don’t stop learning when you stop showing up. They’re just learning without your guidance. And that’s when bad habits form. That’s when regression creeps in.

Progress Comes Through Repetition — Not Randomness
I’ve seen it a thousand times. Someone rides once on Monday, then not again for a week. The next ride feels like starting over. And it is. Because you are.

You’re not building a habit. You’re just reintroducing a concept. Again. And again. And again.

You ask your horse to stand quietly at the mounting block — and he does. You skip three days. The next time he’s dancing around again. You think, “He just won’t stand still.” No, he will — he just forgot. Because you didn’t follow through.

You work on lead departures. They start getting better. Then it rains for four days, and you don’t touch your horse. Next time you saddle up, he’s cross-firing again. It’s not the weather’s fault. It’s the inconsistency.

Horses learn through repetition. That means what you do today — and what you do tomorrow — and what you do the next day — that’s what builds the horse you end up with.

And if the repetition is broken? So is the progress.

Your Horse Doesn’t Care If It’s Windy
I hear this one all the time:

“It was too windy.”
“He was just fresh today.”
“There were trucks going by and he was jumpy.”

So what? That’s life.

You’re not training your horse to ride in a vacuum. You’re not preparing for a world where everything is controlled, quiet, and calm. You’re preparing for reality. And reality is messy.

If you only ride your horse when the conditions are ideal, you’re setting them up to fail in every situation that’s not. You’re reinforcing the idea that the only time they have to listen, the only time they have to focus, the only time they have to be calm is when the world is perfect.

And that’s just not how it works.

You don’t get a broke horse by avoiding tough days. You get a broke horse by working through them.

That doesn’t mean you pick a fight. It doesn’t mean you punish nervousness or push past what your horse can handle. But it does mean you show up, you assess where your horse is, and you work through it with fairness and consistency.

The Horses That Change Are the Ones You Show Up For
I’ve had plenty of horses come in to be started or retrained that had all kinds of baggage — buddy sour, barn sour, spooky, pushy, reactive. And you know what changed them?

It wasn’t one magic ride. It wasn’t some fancy tool or trick.

It was showing up every single day. Working through things every single day. And not just the good days, either. Especially not just the good days.

Some of the best rides I’ve ever had didn’t start good — they ended good because I stuck it out. Because I didn’t quit when it got hard or frustrating. Because I didn’t make excuses. I made progress.

You’re Building Habits — Even When You Think You’re Not
Every day you choose not to ride, you’re teaching your horse something.

Let me say that again, because it matters:

Every day you choose not to ride, you’re still teaching your horse something.

You’re teaching him that the rules are flexible. That the routine doesn’t matter. That the pressure comes and goes without reason. That today’s behavior might slide, depending on your mood.

Or worse — you’re teaching him to get away with behaviors that you don’t correct because you’re not there to see them.

You don’t build a broke, consistent, respectful, relaxed horse by accident. You build that horse through intention. Through structure. Through showing up — even when it’s inconvenient.

You Don’t Have to Ride Hard — But You Do Have to Ride Often
I’m not saying every day has to be a boot camp. You don’t need to lope perfect figure-eights every single ride. But you need to do something.

Some days that might be groundwork. Some days it might be riding out for 15 minutes just to keep the muscle memory fresh. Some days it might be reinforcing a mounting block routine or working on softness at the walk. It doesn’t always have to be intense. But it does have to be consistent.

And honestly? Those short, simple, focused rides are often the most productive ones.

Final Thought
You’re not going to build a dependable, willing, broke horse on the back of fair-weather rides. You’re not going to progress when you let life dictate your schedule more than your commitment does. You don’t get confidence — in yourself or your horse — by waiting for the perfect day to show up.

You get it by showing up anyway.

The people with the best horses aren’t just lucky. They aren’t just talented. They’re consistent. They ride when it’s cold. They ride when it’s hot. They ride when it’s windy. They don’t let a little weather or a little inconvenience or a little resistance get in the way of the bigger goal.

So if you’re waiting for everything to feel just right before you put your foot in the stirrup — you’ll be waiting forever.

Ride today. Especially because you don’t feel like it. Especially because it’s not perfect.

Because that’s how good horses get made.

07/17/2025

🐴 Does Your Horse Have Kissing Spine? Know the Signs! 🐴

Kissing Spine (Overriding Dorsal Spinous Processes) is more common than many riders realize—and often goes undiagnosed. Studies show that up to 90% of performance horses with back pain have radiographic signs of kissing spine, even if they don’t always show obvious symptoms.

Knowing the early signs can make all the difference in your horse’s comfort, performance, and long-term soundness. Here are some common indicators your horse may be dealing with kissing spine:

🔸 Bucking, rearing, or resisting under saddle
🔸 Sudden behavioral changes (girthiness, irritability when groomed)
🔸 Reluctance to go forward or collect
🔸 Difficulty picking up or maintaining a lead
🔸 Discomfort when saddled or mounted
🔸 Hollowing the back or carrying the head high
🔸 Lack of topline development despite conditioning
🔸 Poor performance or attitude changes without a clear cause

If you're noticing any of these signs, it’s worth having your vet do a thorough exam—including x-rays if needed. Early diagnosis, proper bodywork, training changes, and veterinary care can lead to excellent outcomes.

👉 Have a story or experience with kissing spine? Share it below—your insight might help another horse and rider.

07/16/2025

🐴 Is Your Horse Trying to Tell You Something? Signs It’s Time for the Vet or a Tune-Up 🩺

Our horses are tough, but they can’t always tell us when something’s wrong — so it’s up to us to notice the signs. Whether it’s time for a vet visit or just a little extra maintenance, here are a few red flags to keep an eye on:

🔸 Changes in Behavior – Sudden moodiness, reluctance to move, or acting “off” under saddle can signal pain or discomfort.
🔸 Lameness or Stiffness – Even mild limping, dragging toes, or hesitation when turning can indicate a deeper issue.
🔸 Weight Loss or Gain – Shifts in body condition could point to metabolic problems, dental issues, or nutritional imbalances.
🔸 Coat or Hoof Problems – Dull coat, flaky skin, brittle hooves, or unusual growth can be signs of internal issues or lack of proper care.
🔸 Eating or Drinking Changes – Refusing grain, slow chewing, or drinking less than normal? That’s worth a closer look.
🔸 Unusual Sweating or Breathing – Heavy sweating at rest or labored breathing is a big red flag.
🔸 Off Movement After Workouts – If they’re consistently sore after rides or needing extra time to recover, they may need joint support or chiropractic work.

💡 Regular maintenance, like dental checks, chiropractic adjustments, hoof trims, and bodywork, can prevent many of these issues before they start.

If you’re seeing any of these signs, it’s time to call your vet or equine professional. A little proactive care can make a world of difference in your horse’s comfort and performance!

📞 Don’t wait until it’s an emergency — your horse deserves to feel their best every day. 💛

07/15/2025

I share this page with clients often, as I believe many times there is much more going on under the surface causing behaviors than we know. I don't think "pain" should be ruled out as quickly as it so frequently is.

He wasn’t naughty
He wasn’t an a**hole
He wasn’t “just being difficult”

He was however so skeletally compromised that a comfortable ridden life was never going to happen and time was against him. Not every horse is suitable to be ridden just the same as not every human is compatible with being an athlete. We need to normalise that behaviour is communication. We need to accept that there are many things in a horses body that make riding super hard for them.

This horse went through two breakers before his owner very diligently persisted with positive reinforcement training. He did make excellent progress, that is to be commended! But here’s my issue, positive reinforcement sometimes still masks these issues. It became obvious to his owner that he was becoming more internalised and less happy even in the paddock. Horses will try harder if you ask them nicely and there’s rewards for good behaviour. I’m not saying positive reinforcement is bad, it’s a great tool….im just saying it can mask serious issues. The biggest give away was how seriously assymetric he was. This is something I have felt many times while ridng these types. Asymmetry is normal but riding a horse that has wildly different left and right reins is not normal.

This is so complex on so many levels, so many.

Ever met a horse that was odd from birth? I believe inherited trauma is also a real factor, if you haven’t read the study on mice and how it took many generations to stop passing along, I suggest you do. It’s now well documented in humans too. Link below.

https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/fearful-memories-passed-down/

This guys story is available on patreon.

https://www.patreon.com/collection/1606429in

07/14/2025

🐎🌾 Keeping Your Animals in Riding Shape & Ranch Ready 🐾💪

Out here in the West, we know our animals work hard—whether it’s a horse under saddle, a stock dog in the field, or a barn cat keeping watch. When they’re out of alignment, they can’t do their jobs right—and that’s where chiropractic care comes in.

✨ Chiropractic isn’t just for people—it helps animals move easier, feel better, and get back to doing what they love.
Here’s what we see every day:
✅ Smoother movement in working horses
✅ Happier, more agile dogs
✅ Less stiffness and more comfort for older animals
✅ Quicker recovery from everyday wear and tear

We believe every animal deserves to feel their best—whether they’re working, competing, or just part of the family.

📍Serving Southeast Wyoming, one adjustment at a time.
📅 Message us to book a visit—barn calls available!

📞 307-630-4559 💬 Send us a message.
🐴 Let us help your animals feel their best from the inside out.

07/06/2025

☀️🐴 Summer Horse Care Tips: Keeping Your Horse Cool in the Heat 🐴☀️

Hot weather can take a toll on our equine friends, so it’s important to take extra steps to keep them comfortable and safe during the summer months. Here are a few essential tips to help your horse stay cool:

🌿 Shade & Shelter
Make sure your horse has access to shade—whether it’s natural tree cover or a run-in shed. Avoid working them during the hottest parts of the day (usually between 12–4 p.m.).

💧 Plenty of Fresh Water
Always provide clean, cool water. Horses can drink up to 10+ gallons a day in the summer—sometimes more! Adding electrolytes to their feed or water can also help replenish what’s lost through sweat.

💦 Cool Baths & Hosing Off
A quick rinse can go a long way. Hose down your horse with cool (not ice-cold) water, especially under the belly and between the legs, and scrape off the excess so it doesn’t trap heat.

🌬️ Ventilation Matters
If your horse is stabled, ensure the barn is well-ventilated. Use fans safely to help improve airflow and reduce heat stress.

🐎 Adjust Workouts
Exercise during early mornings or late evenings when temps are lower. Keep an eye out for signs of overheating: heavy sweating, rapid breathing, or lethargy.

🌾 Watch the Diet
Make sure forage isn't dusty or moldy, and consider feeding smaller portions more frequently during peak heat times.

🔥 Know the Signs of Heat Stress
Stay alert! Signs include excessive sweating or no sweating at all, high respiration or pulse rate, and dullness. If you notice these, call your vet immediately.

Taking the time to protect your horse from heat stress isn’t just about comfort—it’s about their health and safety. A little extra care goes a long way! ❤️🐎

07/05/2025

🐎 WHY HORSE FITNESS MATTERS 🐎

Conditioning isn’t optional — it’s essential. Here’s why every horse needs a solid fitness foundation:

🔹 Injury Prevention – Stronger muscles, joints, and tendons = fewer setbacks.
🔹 Heart + Lung Health – Boost stamina and recovery time.
🔹 Better Performance – More power, more endurance, more results.
🔹 Mental Focus – Fit horses are calmer, more responsive, and confident.
🔹 Heat Tolerance – Conditioned horses manage temperature better.
🔹 Weight Control – Fitness supports healthy metabolism + body condition.
🔹 Stronger Foundation – Whatever the discipline, fitness is the base.
🔹 Long-Term Soundness – Keep your partner happy, healthy, and working longer.

💥 A fit horse is a safer, happier, and more successful horse.
Want to get your horse in peak shape?
📩 Message me to learn about our conditioning plans!

06/30/2025

5 Reasons Why Equine Chiropractic is Essential to a Horse’s Health Routine

1. Improves Mobility and Performance
Equine chiropractic care keeps joints and the spine aligned, allowing for smoother, freer movement. This is especially important for performance horses, as even minor misalignments can restrict range of motion and reduce stride efficiency. Regular adjustments can help horses move with more ease, power, and balance—essential for both athletes and leisure companions.

2. Relieves Pain and Prevents Injury
Just like in people, poor alignment can lead to muscle strain, joint stress, and compensation injuries in horses. Chiropractic adjustments help relieve pressure on nerves and muscles, reducing pain and tension. Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious injuries and long-term lameness from developing.

3. Supports Nervous System Function
The spine protects the central nervous system, which controls every function in the horse's body. Misalignments (subluxations) can interfere with nerve signals, affecting coordination, digestion, behavior, and overall health. Chiropractic care restores proper alignment, helping the nervous system operate at its best.

4. Enhances Recovery After Strain or Injury
Horses recovering from falls, surgeries, or strenuous activity often develop compensatory movement patterns. Chiropractic adjustments help restore natural posture and gait, accelerating healing and supporting rehabilitation. Combined with veterinary care and physical therapy, it plays a key role in comprehensive recovery.

5. Promotes Long-Term Wellness and Comfort
Routine chiropractic care helps maintain overall health and comfort as horses age. It can ease the stiffness of aging joints, improve posture, and keep the body functioning optimally. Many owners report that their horses seem happier, more relaxed, and more willing to work after regular chiropractic sessions.
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Including chiropractic care in your horse’s health routine is a proactive step toward keeping them sound, comfortable, and performing at their peak.

05/19/2025

I'll be in Wheatland at Laramie Peak vet on June 9th. Let me know if you'd like to get on the schedule. 307-630-4559

12/27/2024