Heather Wallace- Animal Bodywork

12/12/2025

It's Friday! That means time to answer a Frequently Asked Question. Do you have questions? Ask them below.

12/11/2025

True! Essential oils are a wonderful addition to your tack box or grooming tote. Of course, with anything there are some best practices that are important to remember.

1. Always use Certified Therapeutic Grade oils.
2. Always use horse-friendly essential oils. Some, like lavender and peppermint, are easy to access and integrate while others like tea tree oil, can be highly allergenic and toxic. Do your research.
3. Always dilute your oils in a carrier such as Fractionated Coconut Oil.
4. Always ask your horse if they are interested! If yes, they will breathe it in deeply and even mouth it, but sometimes they will turn their heads away or move their entire bodies. Let them tell you!

12/10/2025

Stretching is a very important part of your routine. It is extremely important to stretch at the correct time and within your animal's range of motion.

The tail stretch is something the horse cannot do on their own, and requires your assistance. Because it is a passive stretch, it is something that can be done as part of your warm up. Remember this is not a "tail pull" and should not be considered such. If your horse seems uncomfortable do not proceed as there may be a spinal misalignment.

The carrot stretch is an active stretch completed entirely by the horse but encouraged by the rider or owner. As such and because it can create discomfort if done incorrectly, this should only be completed after the muscles are warm. Additionally, never hold the animal in position. Instead, try these stretches in the paddock or all at liberty and make small movements that are held for five seconds. Start small and over time encourage range of motion and hold.

o learn more about these stretches and for step by step guidelines, buy a copy of Body Conditioning for the Horse and Rider, available on Amazon and my website.

12/09/2025

What do I mean when I use the term "bodywork"?

Great question! Bodywork is a general umbrella term that refers to any therapeutic technique that involves working with the body. This can include massage therapy, energy work, craniosacral work, and much, much more.

Massage therapy is only one aspect of body work. When I refer to myself as a bodyworker it's because I use a variety of massage techniques but am not limited to them- I offer many other services as well which are included under this term. It's important to me that I continuing learning and growing to be more skilled at what I do and to learn as much as I can.

12/08/2025

Carrot Stretches are 50/50

I often like carrot stretches, but they are often used incorrectly, and can cause additional damage if the horse has any subluxations to the spine (requiring a chiropractor). As such, I don't suggest them for the horse owner unless the person has significant experience with them.

That being said, there are some best practices when using them.

1. Always do so at liberty (no halter, no bridle).
2. Never force a position.
3. Start slow and small. Like any stretch, your horse must work up to the big things like a full bow or touching their hip.
4. If your horse says no- listen.

Disclaimer: these gentle techniques are homework for the horse owner and not intended to replace veterinary care or bodywork/massage therapy with a professional. This is simply small tool you can use at home!

12/05/2025

Ringside at Oaks, PA this weekend, next to ring 3. Come by and get your dog a bodywork and chiropractic session at the Coastal Canines tent.

12/05/2025

It's Friday! That means time to answer a Frequently Asked Question. Do you have questions? Ask them below.

12/04/2025

Hello friends! What questions do you have when it comes to equine or canine bodywork or saddle fit? I'm here to help!

12/04/2025

I work with between 10-20 dogs a week at my office, and at Westminster or other dog shows can see as many as 20 in a single day. That’s a lot of dogs! One thing I’ve noticed is how these handlers properly walk with their leashes at the top of the neck/bottom of the ears. That is where the leash SHOULD go. Not only do most pet owners leash their dogs around the base of the neck, but they tend to jerk their dogs from sniffing or to keep them from pulling. This is incredibly dangerous for the animal. It can pull muscles in the pectorals, neck, and even create damage to the throat. More, it can and will create misalignment of the spine, which in serious cases can pinch or herniate a disk and result in paralysis. So please, use the correct training tools in their proper position and don’t yank.

12/03/2025

When is it best to start your pet with massage?

It’s never too early to start! It’s best not to wait until your dog has a mechanical issue. Prevention is a key component in wellness.

I see dogs of all ages and sizes. As they growth, there can be changes to balance and joints. More, with our hands we can detect muscle imbalances early to rebalance, making sure your animal has a long, happy and active life.

12/02/2025

Did you know that if you have friends in New Jersey, you can purchase a gift card for an equine or canine bodywork session or saddle fit evaluation for my services?

This is a great option for trainers, friends, or people who may be interested but haven’t yet gotten their animal evaluated!

https://animalbodywork.com/store/Gift-card-p587287390

You can also learn more about me Heather Wallace- Animal Bodywork or at www.animalbodywork.com.

12/02/2025

Did you know that if you have friends in New Jersey, you can purchase a gift card for a bodywork session or saddle fit evaluation for my services?

This is a great option for trainers, friends, or people who may be interested but haven't yet gotten their animal evaluated!

This is a digital gift card. After the purchase, you will receive an email with the gift card and instructions on how to use it. The card can be used as payment for any products we have.