Today we’d like to introduce you to Lara Cavanaugh.
Hi Lara, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My professional journey began in an unexpected yet meaningful way through my own need for chiropractic care as a licensed massage therapist. While searching for a chiropractor in Greenville, South Carolina, I discovered Evergreen Chiropractic and scheduled a new patient appointment. During my initial examination, Dr. Longacre learned of my background in massage therapy and immediately recognized the potential for collaboration. At the time, I was working full-time in a salon setting, providing massage therapy to a diverse client base. After several visits and thoughtful discussion, Dr. Longacre and I agreed that I would begin working at the chiropractic office one day per week to explore how massage therapy could complement her patient care. I officially joined Evergreen Chiropractic in the summer of 2023.
It quickly became clear that the opportunity offered both professional growth and long-term potential. By early 2024, I made the decision to transition to a full-time role at the chiropractic office. Around this same time, I learned that Dr. Longacre was pursuing education in animal chiropractic care, a development that deeply excited me. Years earlier, I had explored certification in canine massage therapy through Holistic Animal Studies, but at that point in my life I lacked the financial means and appropriate environment to pursue or practice it. Once Dr. Longacre enrolled in animal chiropractic school, I knew the timing was right, and I enrolled in the canine massage therapy certification program as well.
Through 2024, we embarked on an intensive learning journey together. We shared a clear vision, a strong work ethic, and the determination to turn our goals into reality. Rather than simply discussing ideas, we took deliberate action. By the end of 2024, we began offering integrated chiropractic and massage therapy services for animals. We continued expanding our education, with me advancing into equine and feline massage therapy and Dr. Longacre continuing into food animal chiropractic. Our work soon extended beyond companion animals and into farm settings.
One of our first farm calls proved to be transformative. At a client’s home, we treated a dog, donkey, goats, and chickens. While assisting Dr. Longacre during the chiropractic care of the chickens, I was struck by how calm and receptive they were following their adjustments. When I was handed one of the hens to hold, something shifted profoundly for me. Holding that chicken felt grounding and deeply therapeutic. I realized in that moment how powerful animal connection had always been in my life. The simple act of caring for animals, which is known to release oxytocin and reduce stress, resonated with me on a visceral level.
When I returned home, I shared my experience with my husband and expressed my long-standing desire to finally have chickens of my own, something we had discussed when we moved to South Carolina in 2018. He wholeheartedly supported the idea. Within a week, our coop was built, and we welcomed three laying hens into our backyard. The joy they brought was immediate and unmistakable. Chickens are spirited, expressive, and endlessly entertaining, qualities that mirror why I have always been drawn to animals. They communicate their needs clearly and authentically, without pretense.
Shortly thereafter, Dr. Longacre came to my home to provide chiropractic care for my chickens. Having already witnessed the benefits firsthand, I was confident in the value of this care. Regular chiropractic adjustments supported their overall health, improved calmness, enhanced immune function, and contributed to easier egg laying. Combined with organic feed and free ranging, the result was a noticeable improvement in egg quality that was richer in nutrition and reflective of the chickens’ high quality of life.
Despite having a small flock due to city regulations, I felt strongly about sharing these benefits with others and advocating for farm-to-table nutrition. The quality of our food supply has declined significantly with mass production, and nowhere is this more evident than in commercially produced eggs. A chicken’s quality of life is directly reflected in the nourishment it provides. On January 1, 2025, I officially registered Wishing Wellness as an LLC, obtained my egg license, and began selling eggs from chiropractically adjusted, humanely raised chickens.
Our flock is currently at the maximum allowed, eight happy and healthy hens, with no roosters permitted under city regulations. While I hope one day to move to a farm with greater acreage, I firmly believe that every dream begins where you are. For now, that dream is thriving in my backyard with eight chickens, a clear vision, and a deep commitment to wellness for people, animals, and the food we share.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Through consistent sanitation practices and attentive coop monitoring, raising chickens has been a smooth and rewarding experience. The holistic care we provide supports their overall health and well-being. We are also fortunate to have calm, gentle dogs who coexist peacefully with the chickens, allowing for safe and harmonious interaction.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We offer high-quality eggs from chickens raised in a holistic environment and supported through regular chiropractic care. In addition, we currently provide a selection of holistic canine products, including handmade herbal flea powder and an anti-inflammatory oil. Our professional services include canine, equine, and feline bodywork, tailored to support overall wellness and mobility.
We have also been contracted by Holistic Animal Studies to collaborate on the development of educational coursework for animal bodywork certifications. In 2025, we contributed to the creation of a specialized lymphatic massage course for animals. With over 20 years of experience as a licensed human massage therapist, I bring a strong foundation of anatomical knowledge and hands-on expertise that seamlessly translates to animal bodywork.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
Do not be discouraged by those who claim something cannot be done; such perspectives often stem from fear of growth and change. Individuals who genuinely support you will encourage your progress and celebrate your success. Embrace the role of a pioneer, understanding that not everyone will immediately recognize or understand your vision. What matters most is your belief in the path you are pursuing.
Trust that life has a way of guiding you toward where you are meant to be. At times, the direction we initially believe is right for us may shift, and opportunities may close intentionally to redirect us toward a more aligned path. Not every endeavor unfolds as planned, and it may take time—sometimes years—to understand why. Often, this is because certain outcomes were not meant to serve your long-term growth. What we desire is not always what we need in order to evolve. When we remain open and attentive, life will ultimately guide us toward our true calling.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.wishingwellnessllc.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/179dcWdYEN/
