Holistic Animal Care Blog | Poll to Pastern

Holistic Education & Information

Explore educational resources on holistic pet wellness, natural modalities, and complementary care approaches for dogs and cats. Our pet wellness blog features information about acupressure for pets, red light therapy for animals, aromatherapy in pet care, and how these holistic practices support overall well-being. Discover articles on stress reduction for pets, relaxation techniques, energy balance, and integrative wellness approaches that work alongside your veterinarian's care. Whether you're learning about holistic pet care modalities, seeking information on natural wellness practices, or exploring complementary support for your pet's quality of life, find educational content to enhance your understanding of holistic animal wellness.

Canine acupressure practitioner applying pressure to an acupoint on a dog during professional training

Dog Acupressure Course: Professional Training & Certification Guide

Considering professional canine acupressure certification? This comprehensive guide explains what professional-level training truly involves—from foundational education and assessment skills to certification pathways and ethical standards—so you can choose a program with clarity and confidence.

5 days ago16 min read

quine acupressure practitioner performing a professional assessment on a horse as part of certification-level training

Equine Acupressure Training: Professional Certification Guide

Thinking about becoming a certified equine acupressure practitioner? This comprehensive guide breaks down what professional-level training truly involves—from anatomy and Traditional Chinese Medicine foundations to case studies, in-person requirements, and certification standards—so you can choose a program with confidence and clarity.

Feb 618 min read

White horse moving with calm presence and balanced posture, representing emotional awareness, Shen, and mind–body harmony.

The Shen in Horses: Emotional Presence, Awareness, and Balance

Horses communicate through presence, posture, and the eyes. Learn what the Shen means in horses and how emotional balance shows up through the body from a TCM perspective.

Feb 29 min read

Dog lying calmly with relaxed eyes, reflecting emotional awareness and Shen balance.

What Is the Shen in Dogs—and Why It Matters More Than You Think

Behavior isn’t the whole story. Discover what the Shen means in dogs, how it shows up through the eyes and emotions, and how Traditional Chinese Medicine supports emotional balance.

Jan 2611 min read

Close-up of a relaxed orange tabby cat lying down. The year of the fire horse can be represented in the orange cat.

What the Year of the Fire Horse Means for Your Cat

The Year of the Fire Horse brings heightened emotion and sensitivity—and cats feel it too. Learn how Fire energy affects feline behavior, summer wellness, and Shen balance, plus gentle ways to support emotional harmony.

Jan 1911 min read

Brown dog with tongue out runs through a grassy field under a sunny, clear sky. The year of the fire horse helps the dog feel confident and empowered

What the Year of the Fire Horse Means for Your Dog

The Year of the Fire Horse brings heightened emotion, expression, and sensitivity—and dogs feel it too. Learn how Fire energy influences the Heart, Shen, behavior, and summer wellness, along with gentle ways to support balance throughout the year.

Jan 1510 min read

Chestnut horse running with a wild look on its face. The horse may not be balanced in the fire element and needs support with acupressure. It's the year of the fire horse 2026 and horses need more support through traditional Chinese medicine.

What the Year of the Fire Horse Means for Your Horse in 2026

What does the Year of the Fire Horse mean for your horse? This blog explores Fire element energetics, summer wellness, and gentle ways to support emotional balance in 2026.

Jan 611 min read

Finding Your Missing Pet: Cat and Dog Search Tips Every Owner Should Know

When a dog or cat goes missing, every moment feels overwhelming. This guide walks you through clear, effective steps to search, spread the word, and increase the chances of a safe, fast reunion.

Dec 8, 202525 min read

Understanding Resource Guarding in Dogs — and How Acupressure Can Support Calm Confidence

Resource guarding is more common than many owners realize — and it’s rooted in fear, not defiance. Learn how to recognize the signs, respond with understanding, and use acupressure to help your dog feel safe, calm, and confident again.

Nov 24, 20258 min read

Why Preventative Care Matters: A TCM Perspective on Animal Health

Preventative care isn’t just about annual check-ups or vaccines—it’s a mindset. It’s about tuning in, supporting the body’s natural rhythms, and addressing imbalances before they become symptoms. This approach is especially central in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), which views health as a dynamic balance of energy, function, and environment.

Nov 17, 202510 min read

When You’re Away and Your Dog Has a Lot to Say: Keeping Pets Happy (and Quiet!) at Home

Ever hear a lonely pup narrating the day from down the hall? Learn how to keep pets calm, content, and quietly entertained while you’re away.

Nov 10, 202514 min read

Natural Boosts: Simple Add-Ons That Can Support Your Dog’s Health

The good news is that you don’t always need complicated medications to support your dog’s digestion. There are many natural, safe, and simple add-ons that can be incorporated into daily routines.

Sep 24, 202512 min read

Two golden retrievers stand on rocks by a turquoise lake and driftwood, with a mountain backdrop. These dogs are in training.

Caring for Dogs Through Every Life Stage: Tools, Training, and Compassion

Caring for dogs through every life stage means adapting to their evolving needs. From playful puppies to gentle seniors, this guide offers essential tips to ensure your dog’s well-being at each important stage.

Jul 1, 20259 min read

Dog happily panting in a field looking up in hopes to play while balanced in the fire element.

Summer Heat & the Fire Element: Keeping Pets & Horses Cool with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

When the heat of summer intensifies, it can disrupt these systems, leading to symptoms like restlessness, overheating, irritability, and even digestive upset in pets. Recognizing these patterns through the lens of TCM allows us to support our animal companions in a holistic, preventative way—keeping them comfortable, cool, and energetically balanced all summer long.

Jun 16, 202512 min read