
The Equine Connection Podcast
205 episodes — Page 3 of 5
Ep 186How the Heck Do I Feed This Horse: Travel & Fitness
In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo, and equine specialist Heather discuss preparing horses for trips and activities, emphasizing nutrition and fitness. They use Heather's 13-year-old quarter horse Boone as a case study, covering topics such as long-term fitness programs, diet adjustments, managing stress during travel, gut health, hydration, and packing essentials for equine trips. The episode provides practical tips for ensuring horse well-being and successful adventures. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 185Does My Fat Horse Really Need Grain?
In this episode, we discuss the common issue of overweight horses and how to manage their nutrition. The episode covers strategies for feeding horses that are overfed, the importance of finding a balance in their diet, and the role of ration balancers in providing essential nutrients without adding unnecessary calories. Dr. Rambo also provides practical tips on managing forage quality and quantity, using grazing muzzles, and weighing hay to maintain optimal equine health. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for personalized advice and explore the variety of resources available through Tribute Equine Nutrition. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 184How the Heck Do I Feed This Horse: Seasonal Diet Changes
In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and equine specialist Heather discuss common equine nutrition issues related to seasonal changes, particularly focusing on the transition from hay to spring/summer pasture. They address a case of a four-year-old gelding who gained weight with increased pasture time and the recommendation to switch from a complete horse feed to a ration balancer. They also explore the intricacies of adjusting feeding programs based on environmental changes and the importance of monitoring a horse's body condition regularly. Listeners are encouraged to reach out with their own questions and experiences. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 183Why Fecal Egg Counts for Horses are Important
Dr. Nicole Rambo dives into the importance of fecal egg counts for managing parasite burdens in horses. She discusses how fecal egg counts can inform targeted deworming strategies, reducing the risk of resistance to anthelmintics and promoting overall herd health. The conversation covers the timing of fecal egg counts relative to deworming, the impact of age and health on parasite susceptibility, and the use of pre and probiotics to support the horse's GI tract. Practical advice on performing fecal egg counts and working with veterinarians is also provided. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 182How the Heck Do I Feed This Horse: Mallenders & Sallenders
In this episode Dr. Nicole Rambo and equine specialist Heather, address a listener's concern about Mallenders in feathered horse breeds, such as the Gypsy Vanner. They debunk myths around dietary needs specific to draft horses, clarifying that nutritional requirements are more influenced by a horse's life stage and activity level rather than breed. The conversation touches on common skin issues like hyperkeratosis, particularly prevalent in spring due to wet conditions and mites. The team also explores how proper nutrition, grooming, and the use of specific supplement ingredients, including biotin and omega 3 fatty acids, can support skin health and overall well-being in horses, debunking misconceptions about diet restrictions related to protein and starch intake. They underscore the importance of comprehensive care and nutrition to tackle these challenges effectively. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 181Do's and Don't of Soaking Horse Feed & Hay
This episode discusses the importance and methodologies of soaking feed for horses. The conversation highlights several reasons why owners might soak feed, including preventing choke, aiding horses with poor or missing teeth, and managing metabolic issues through reducing sugar intake in hay. Dr. Nicole Rambo provides detailed advice on how to properly soak pelleted and textured horse feeds, hay pellets, and beet pulp, emphasizing the need to avoid nutrient loss and prevent mold and bacteria growth. She also covers the significance of monitoring soaked feed in various climates and offers tips on handling hay for metabolic horses, suggesting alternatives like tested low-NSC forages and stressing the importance of post-soaking care to ensure safety and nutritional adequacy. The episode wraps up by acknowledging the reality of choke in horses, stressing thorough post-feeding checks to catch and manage choke incidents quickly. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 180Constant Comfort® Gut Health Paste for Horses
In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo, alongside equine specialists Sarah and Heather, introduce a new product from Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition called Constant Comfort® Paste, an extension of their Constant Comfort® gut health supplement line. The Constant Comfort® line supports horse gut health, a top concern among horse owners. The paste is designed for convenience and is particularly useful during travel or stressful events, offering a quick and effective way to support a horse's digestive system. The episode dives into the details of the Constant Comfort® system, which includes a supplement and a block, in addition to the new paste. Each product's ingredients and their benefits are discussed, including a comparison between the new paste and other gut health products, like UlcerGard. It is stressed that the Constant Comfort® products, including the paste, are supplements with natural ingredients designed for buffering stomach acid and supporting the stomach lining, rather than drugs. The episode also addresses practical considerations for using these products in a horse's daily routine and in response to their stress levels, providing a comprehensive overview for horse owners on enhancing their horse's gut health. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 179Importance of Calcium/Phosphorus Ratios in Horses
In this episode, the team discusses the critical role of calcium and phosphorus balance in the diets of young, growing horses, as well as pregnant mares. Highlighting the importance of maintaining a calcium to phosphorus ratio between 1:1 and 2:1, Dr. Rambo explains how this balance impacts bone development and the prevention of skeletal deformities. She emphasizes the need for hay analysis to properly assess and adjust the equine diet, considering the potential for nutritional imbalances that could lead to conditions like developmental orthopedic disorders (OCDs) and big head disease. The conversation also covers the risks of overfeeding calcium through high-alfalfa diets, the potential of phosphorus deficiency, and the significance of correct nutritional planning from gestation onwards to foster healthy growth and minimize developmental issues. Dr. Rambo advocates for testing forage as a proactive measure in equine nutrition management. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 178How the Heck Do I Feed this Horse: Elevated Liver Enzymes
In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and equine specialists Heather and Sarah discuss a concern regarding equine liver health. They explore a case involving a nine-year-old racehorse with elevated liver enzymes and whether a diet change is necessary. The discussion covers potential causes of liver issues in horses, including viruses, parasites, unknown origins, and dietary impacts. They emphasize the importance of appropriate training and diet, debunk common misconceptions about diet causing liver enzyme elevations, and suggest practical approaches for managing horses showing signs of liver stress. The podcast aims to inform horse owners and trainers about managing and preventing liver health issues in horses, with a focus on racehorses. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 177How Horse Feeds Affect Emotional Health
In this episode, the discussion centers around 'emotional horse feeds' - horse feed ingredients that may cause horses to become hot, hyper, or excitable. Dr. Rambo explains how changes in diet, especially those involving sugar and starch, can significantly affect a horse's behavior. Exploring the reasons behind this, this podcast covers how diets high in sugar and starch can disrupt a horse's gut microbiota and potentially lead to digestive upset, resulting in what might be perceived as emotional behavior. Additionally, the episode debunks myths surrounding protein's impact on behavior and discusses the role of forage and the importance of low-starch and high-fat diets in moderating a horse's energy levels. The dialogue further addresses common misconceptions about feed ingredients, offering practical advice for owners seeking to manage their horses' diet for more stable behavior. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 176How the Heck Do I Feed This Horse Series: Orphan Foals
In this episode, we discuss the critical aspects of caring for orphan foals. The focus is on the immediate nutritional needs following the loss of their mother, emphasizing the importance of colostrum in the first 12 to 24 hours of life, options for milk replacers, and strategies for managing feeding and socialization as they grow. The experts also touch on the hypothetical scenario of transitioning a mare that has lost its foal and address potential health issues, such as gastric ulcers in foals. They offer resources and support for breeders facing such challenges and encourage reaching out for personalized advice through various means provided by Tribute Equine Nutrition. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 175Forage-Based Diets for Horses
This week, we feature a discussion between co-host Kim Brown and equine nutritionist Dr. Nicole Rambo on forage-based diets for horses. They explore what constitutes a forage-based diet, emphasizing that while forage should be the bulk of a horse's diet, it does not mean excluding other nutritional sources. Dr. Rambo addresses common misconceptions, the importance of balancing forage with other nutrients, and how to adapt diet plans for various scenarios like senior horses, drought conditions, or horses needing additional calories. They also discuss the role of ration balancers and specialized feeds in supplementing a forage-based diet, ensuring horses receive all necessary nutrients for optimal health and performance. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 174Introducing Synergize™, A Premium Horse Feed
In this episode of the Equine Connection podcast, Dr. Nicole Rambo and her team introduce a new horse feed from Tribute Equine Nutrition, Synergize™. This high-fat, low non-structural carbohydrate (NSC) blend is designed to increase the fat and fiber content in a horse's diet, while keeping low NSC levels. They contrast Synergize™ with Kalm Ultra®, another high-fat horse feed, highlighting Synergize™'s higher fiber and lower NSC content. The hosts discuss the benefits of Synergize™, including its gut health package, which is comprised of Equi-Ferm XL® (a pre and probiotic) and Constant Comfort® (seaweed-derived calcium for additional stomach support), making it suitable for horses needing more calories, horses with specific dietary concerns like PSSM type 1, or for maintaining efficient digestive health. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 173What Blocks Does My Horse Need?
In this episode of The Equine Connection Podcast, co-hosts Kim Brown and Dr. Nicole Rambo, an equine nutritionist, delve into the world of equine supplement blocks, focusing on salt, mineral, and supplement blocks available in feed stores. They discuss the importance of free-choice salt for horses and explain the differences between various colored salt blocks, including white, red, and blue, and the nutritional value of each. Emphasizing the need for simplicity and appropriateness when selecting supplement blocks for horses, Dr. Rambo introduces Tribute's unique supplement blocks designed specifically for horses, including the Grass Assist Block, the Fly Control Block, and the Constant Comfort Block. They provide tips for ensuring these blocks stay fresh and are placed strategically. The episode underscores the holistic approach to equine nutrition and offers practical advice for horse owners navigating supplement options. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 172Bonus Episode: What to Feed After Hygain Exits USA Market
In this bonus Equine Connection Podcast episode, hosted by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition, the hosts discuss the recent departure of Hygain from the U.S. market. They delve into how this affects horse owners seeking alternative feeds and offer detailed recommendations and comparisons for substituting Hygain's popular products. The discussion includes specifics on feeds like Munga, High Gain Zero, Showtorque, Growtorque, Tru Breed, Meta Safe, and Hygain Release. The hosts emphasize Tribute's role in assisting horse owners through this transition, providing insights into equine dietary needs and the nuances of choosing the right feed. The episode offers guidance on contacting Tribute Equine Nutrition for personalized feeding plans, aiming to help horse owners navigate their feeding challenges with tailored solutions. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 171How the Heck Do I Feed This Horse Series: Ulcers & Sweet Feed
In this week's podcast, an owner called and was worried about her 8-year-old Quarter Horse. The horse was receiving ample amounts of sweet feed, suffered from ulcers, and was a bit too energetic (spicy). Dr. Rambo and the equine experts from Tribute discuss this case, what they advised the owner, and update on how the horse is doing today. A topic for any horse owner. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 170Equine Ulcers: Treatment & Prevention
In this episode, cohosts Kim Brown and Dr. Nicole Rambo discuss ways to manage and prevent gastric ulcers in horses. They discuss the difference between drugs and supplements, where the latter is meant for prevention and ongoing support, while drugs address the disease. Dr. Rambo introduces common medications prescribed for ulcers and explains their effectiveness. They also discuss supplements, noting the importance of not relying on supplements alone and addressing other risk factors. They clarify the importance of forage in a horse's diet, the risk of sweet feeds, and the maximum meal sizes for horses. They touch on issues that can cause ulcers, such as stress, transportation, and herd dynamics. While acknowledging the complexity and range of factors influencing ulcer formation, the hosts underscore regular tuning into individual horses' situations and pursuing vet consultation whenever things seem off. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 169How the Heck Do I Feed This Horse Series: My Yearling Stopped Eating
In this week's podcast, we tackle a case study. An owner called and was worried that her yearling, Mikey. Mikey suddenly stopped eating his horse feed. The Tribute team takes you through the scenario and discussion with the horse's owner. Eventually, the cause is identified and resolved. Mikey is back to eating his feed and is healthy and happy. A fun episode on what equine nutritionists do day in and day out. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 168Understanding and Managing Equine Gastric Ulcers
In this episode of the Equine Connection podcast, hosts Kim Brown and Dr. Nicole Rambo delve into the topic of equine health, specifically focusing on equine gastric ulcers. They discuss the different types of gastric ulcers that affect horses, how to identify signs of ulcers, and the various risk factors. The conversation covers early research focused on squamous disease, revealing that ulcers could occur in horses living in various conditions, from high-stress racing to tranquil pastures. They highlight the significance of management factors in mitigating ulcer risk, including forage availability, meal size, and stress reduction. Towards the end, they tease the next episode, promising to go deeper into the prevention and treatment of equine gastric ulcers. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 165Importance of Pre and Probiotics to Horses
The introduction of pre- and probiotics to equine diets has provided multiple benefits to horses from all around the world. In this week's podcast, we focus on what exactly prebiotics are and how they work. Then we discuss probiotics, what they are and how they also work. The bottom line is, synergistically working together, pre- and probiotics help improve the digestive health of our horses. Thus, we talk about some of the research that has gone into these products, how they are currently being fed to our horses, and then also outline the benefits. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 166How Nutrition Can Impact a Horse's Hooves
It has always been said, "No Hoof, No Horse." We, as owners, are always caring for and concerned with our horse's hooves. While there are many factors that influence hoof health, nutrition plays a vital role. This week, we discuss this more in detail. First, we briefly touch on how hooves grow and what can impact their growth. We then discuss vital nutrients and how they help our horse's feet. Finally, we touch upon which nutrients to focus on and how a balanced diet can improve growth and function. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 167Approaches to Feeding Hard-Keeping Horses
The term "hard" keeper is used quite frequently by horse owners. Thus, in this week's podcast, we focus solely on the hard keeper and what that means as a horse owner. Hard keepers are horses that have difficulty in maintaining weight (body condition). We discuss some of the signs and how to identify if your horse is a hard keeper. We also chat about certain horse types that tend to be harder keepers. After discussing some concerns with hard keepers, we then offer some tips and advice on how best to approach your feeding plan for your hard keeper. As mentioned in the podcast, we were listed as a Top 10 Horse Podcast on FeedSpot. You can access the list HERE You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 164Why Horses Eat Manure
Horse owners may be alarmed when witnessing a horse start to eat either its own manure, or even manure from another horse. Typically, this is seen in foals and other young horses, and we talk about why they may exhibit this behavior. There is even some evidence that manure eating is beneficial to young horses, and we briefly touch upon that. Then, we switch the discussion of what to do when this behavior is observed in adult horses. Owners should be aware of the underlying causes of why an adult horse may begin to eat manure, and then we give some management tips on how to alleviate these causes. We also talk about some of the health concerns with horses that eat manure and what you can do to protect your horse. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 163Feeding the PSSM Type 1 Horse
Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM) is a genetic disease affecting many breeds of horses. There are two identified types of PSSM: PSSM Type 1 and PSSM Type 2. In this week's podcast, we focus in on PSSM Type 1. During the podcast, we discuss what PSSM is and how Type 1 is identifiable in horses. We address which horses are at risk of this genetic disease and what it means to their health. Diet is a major factor in reducing the severity of PSSM and thus, we give tips on how best to manage them. We also talk about other ways owners can help reduce the severity of this disease. The bottom line is, with careful management, PSSM horses can and do live healthy and happy lives. PSSM does differ from another common genetic disorder, Hyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP), which we covered in another podcast episode that can be found HERE You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 162How Horses Digest Their Feed
Horses are unique amongst many other large herbivores, like cattle, sheep, and even deer. Rather, horses and their cousins (donkeys, zebras and other equids), are part of a smaller group known as "hindgut" fermenters. This week, we discuss the horse's digestive tract. We start at the teeth and go all the way through, giving highlights to each structure and what makes horses so unique. This is important, as it makes understanding all the many recommendations given to owners regarding equine nutrition easier to understand. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 161The Truth About Bran Mash for Horses
In days gone by, it was not uncommon to warm up some water and mix it with some bran to make a nice, warm mash for your horse. Many believed it helped warm their horses during a cold winter's night. Others believed a bran mash had a nice laxative effect and aided their horse's digestion. In this week's podcast, we highlight why feeding bran or making a bran mash may not be such a good idea for your horse. We highlight what exactly bran is, what nutrients it has and why it may be a bad idea, even as a treat. We offer other alternatives that are better and healthier treats for your horse and how you can help them better during those cold winter nights. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 160Feeding the Broodmare
This week we focus on the broodmare and discuss why she requires special care and attention. Broodmares are especially interesting because they go through so many tremendous changes through gestation and then immediately following parturition. During gestation, broodmares require careful management as they provide critical nutrients to the foal. We specially focus on why owners need to be careful on what they are feeding as it has major implications on offspring wellbeing. Then once she has given birth, her nutritional demands dramatically increase as she shifts to lactation. Therefore, we discuss feeding strategies on how to help her through post pregnancy and support her as she provides important milk for her foal. Finally, as the goal for most broodmare operations is to get the mare rebred and pregnant for the following year, we highlight some important considerations for owners to consider. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 159Is Your Horse Experiencing Hay Belly?
You may have heard the term "hay belly" used to describe a horse that looks obese, but isn't. Many do not quite know what hay belly really is. Thus, in this week's podcast we talk about hay belly and tell you exactly what this condition is and how to identify it. We then go on to describe which types of horses may be prone to experiencing hay belly and what the underlying causes are. Prevention is the best cure, so we give some tips on how to avoid this condition. We then finish off the podcast giving advice on how to alleviate hay belly if your horse is experiencing it. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 158Feeding Alfalfa to Your Horse
As a legume, alfalfa is a unique forage and is the primary choice for many horse owners. Because the foundation for any horse diet will always be forage, this week we focus on alfalfa and why or why not it would be a good choice for your horse. We start off discussing how alfalfa as a legume differs from many of our grass forages. We especially focus on which nutrients differ and what owners should be aware of, especially when it comes to the quality of alfalfa hay. Under certain circumstances alfalfa may not be advisable to certain classes of horses. Thus, we give some advice and tips on how to manage these animals. We then shift our focus on why owners may want to select alfalfa for their horses and what makes it such a popular forage. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 157Equine Calorie Requirements During Winter
As many in North America are experiencing cold weather, we go into some tips on how to assist your horse in their changing nutritional needs. We jump right in and start talking calories and why it's important to be aware of them in your horse's diet. This is especially true as the seasons change and the weather challenges a horse's ability to maintain body condition and thermoregulate. We also share a story of how one horse actually gained condition and muscling when their calories were decreased in the diet. We finally give some tips on which horse feeds you should choose in the winter to help your horses thrive. We also want to thank you for following and sharing these episodes with your fellow equine enthusiasts. You can learn more about feeding tips for your horses during the winter by going HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 156Feeding Your Underweight Horse
While many horses are considered overweight and are considered easy keepers, often owners will have horses that are difficult to maintain weight and are considered hard keepers. We provide a brief review of the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System and also discuss the Tribute Wellness System. Together, they can be used to evaluate how well your horses are doing with their diets. We discuss what could be considered an underweight horse and what nutrients these horses may be lacking in the diet. Then our focus switched to just how to feed an underweight horse to bring them back into a proper body condition. Like any diet evaluation, this starts with a horse’s forage portion of the diet. High quality forage is always important for any horse. Then when evaluating the concentrate portion of the diet, we discuss many important considerations for horse owners. Throughout the podcast we give tips and advice on how best to manage the diet of these "hard keepers". Finally, it is worth for extreme cases with horses that are in a very low body condition (BCS 1-2); these animals will need a special refeeding program. In these instances we urge you to seek advice from your veterinarian and you can also reach out to us for help. You can access the Tribute Wellness System HERE While many horses are considered overweight and are considered easy keepers, often owners will have horses that are difficult to maintain weight and are considered hard keepers. We provide a brief review of the Henneke Body Condition Scoring System and also discuss the Tribute Wellness System. Together, they can be used to evaluate how well your horses are doing with their diets. We discuss what could be considered an underweight horse and what nutrients these horses may be lacking in the diet. Then our focus switched to just how to feed an underweight horse to bring them back into a proper body condition. Like any diet evaluation, this starts with a horse’s forage portion of the diet. High quality forage is always important for any horse. Then when evaluating the concentrate portion of the diet, we discuss many important considerations for horse owners. Throughout the podcast we give tips and advice on how best to manage the diet of these "hard keepers". Finally, it is worth for extreme cases with horses that are in a very low body condition (BCS 1-2); these animals will need a special refeeding program. In these instances we urge you to seek advice from your veterinarian and you can also reach out to us for help. You can access the Tribute Wellness System HERE You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 155Feeding Your Senior Horse in Winter
With winter coming, it would be worth your while to review your nutrition plan for your senior horses. Generally, a senior horse is one that is older than 15 years old. However, there are many factors that can influence what we could consider a "senior horse," which we discuss. We also talk about why winter can be a tougher time for older horses when compared to our younger stock. With winter and the environmental stress associated with it, we focus in on how an older horse's dietary requirements might change. Then we give some generalities on what changes you can make to your nutritional plan to support your horses. Finally, we give some broad general tips on how to ensure you can best support your senior horses and ensure they stay healthy and happy. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 154CAUTION: Adding Beet Pulp to Horse Feed
Beet pulp is a common feedstuff fed to horses. It is often included in horse feeds and commonly supplemented by horse owners. However, it is when it is added to your horse's diet that there should be some caution. In this week's podcast, we explain why beet pulp is a good food source for horses. We talk about how it is a highly digestible fiber source, making it a great ingredient for horse feeds. We then talk about some issues owners may have when feeding beet pulp, or especially, when feeding too much. Included are some tips on how best to feed beet pulp and what to watch out for. Please take this quick survey as mentioned in last week's podcast ===> HERE<=== You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 152Managing Your Horse at a New Facility
Moving your horse to a new facility can be an exciting but challenging experience for both you and your horses. Whether it's a new boarding stable, a change of residence, or a temporary location for training or competition, transitioning to a new environment requires careful planning and consideration. In this week's podcast, we discuss some of the most critical aspects of managing your horse at a new facility, including how to transition their feed. This podcast highlights key things horse owners should be aware of when moving their horse to a new location. Please take this quick survey as mentioned in this podcast ===> HERE<=== You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE. If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE. This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition.
Ep 153Designing a Horse Feeding Plan
We have often highlighted that it is important for every owner to formulate a feeding plan for their horses. In this week's podcast, we are joined with a Tribute Equine Specialist, Sarah Ranker, who talks with us about the importance of having a feeding plan for your horse. Sarah spends much of her time speaking to horse owners about what they are feeding their horses and she helps them formulate the ideal diet. Sarah shares with us much of what goes into the thought process of creating a feeding plan and how she and other equine nutritionists can help you. As we mention in the podcast, if you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us at tributeequinenutrition.com. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 151Chromium in Your Horse’s Diet
Chromium is one of the latest "hot topics' in horse nutrition. Many companies are now promoting chromium to horse owners and this week we tackle this latest trend. We answer what exactly chromium is, how it is utilized by the horse, and how it can potentially be beneficial to your horse. However, caution is advised as certain types of horses can be potentially harmed if they are fed chromium. We also discuss what the latest research is and just how much chromium you should feed per day. Since chromium is so important in insulin regulation, we do address it, and a previous episode related to insulin regulation and metabolic syndrome can be accessed HERE You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE. If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE. This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition.
Ep 150Is Turmeric Beneficial to Horses?
Dietary supplements can be beneficial to horses and are increasing in popularity. One such supplement, turmeric, has gained traction by equine nutritionists as one of these beneficial supplements. In this week's podcast, we discuss how turmeric can benefit horses and how it works. We look at what the research says and why it is now being added to horse diets. It is actually one of the key ingredients in Tribute's Essential K Rebuild, a ration balancer specifically built to help horses recover from exercise. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE. If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE. This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition.
Ep 149Thoroughbred Feeding Guide
One of the most popular breeds around the world has to be the Thoroughbred. These versatile horses compete in numerous disciplines and are beloved by many. From horse racing to eventing to pleasure riding, Thoroughbreds can do it all. Yet, due to their breeding, they do exhibit some breed characteristics that owners need to be aware of. Thus, in this week's podcast, we tackle some of those issues and what it can mean for these horses' diets and overall health. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE. If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE. This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition.
Ep 148Wheat Middlings in Horse Feed: Good or Bad?
One of the questions equine nutritionists are often asked is, "What in the heck are wheat middlings?" Some think they are a budget ingredient just added as filler to horse feeds and do not offer much to the horse. Well in this week's podcast, we address this and tell you why wheat middlings are often included in many horse feeds. We also address what nutrition they provide to your horses and how they are processed. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE. If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE. This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition.
Ep 147Helping Your Horse Through Seasonal Changes
As we transition into the fall and eventually into winter, it can bring a lot of stress to your horses. How best to manage them and limit the amount of stress they experience is the topic of this week's podcast. One of the biggest concerns is, of course, colic. Thus, every owner should have a solid management plan in place to help their horses through these seasonal changes. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE. If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE. This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition.
Ep 146Feeding Horses with EPM
Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) is a neurological disease impacting many horses throughout North America. It is a disease that can affect any horse that ingests the microbe through opossum feces. While it can be rare in horses, those that do get infected can have serious problems leading to death. However, there are some excellent treatments that can help horses when under veterinary care. Additionally, good nutrition and support with some extra vitamins (mainly E) can possibly be beneficial. Another podcast and topic for any horse owner. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 145A Guide to Feeding Gaited Horses
Of all the horse breeds, gaited horses are often considered the most elegant. This is because gaited horse breeds are those that have been selectively bred to perform specialized movements called ambling gaits. These gaits are often considered smooth and easy to ride. Additionally, of the many breeds of gaited horses, some may have specialized nutrient requirements like some of our top equine athletes. Thus, in this week's podcast, we talk everything about gaited horses, what makes them special, and just what they might need in their feed buckets. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 144Fall Horse Pasture Management
The fall is a busy time of year for many horse owners. Many are preparing for winter, but also many need to think about how best to manage their pastures for the coming year. In addition, many horse owners need to be cautious when letting their horses graze on lush fall forage. In this week's podcast, we give you a glimpse into what it takes to manage your horses and your fall pastures. There are many tasks you may want to consider to ensure your pastures remain flourishing in the fall and well prepared for the following year's growth. With a little bit of work, you can ensure your pastures remain suitable for your horses in the fall months and then ready to bloom in the spring. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 143Timing Meals to Maximize Your Horse’s Performance
Have you ever wondered when you should feed your horse before a competition or even before casually riding? What is best for the horse and could it also impact how well they perform? The short answer is yes and is the topic of this week's podcast. When you feed your horse a concentrated meal can impact how well they do when under moderate to intense exercise. We discuss this and more, like should they even be offered hay before an event? Another podcast for every horse owner that rides. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 142Why Do Horses Crib?
One of the most frustrating abnormal behaviors a horse may adopt is the act of cribbing. Briefly, cribbing is when a horse places their front teeth on a hard surface, arch their neck back forcefully, and then gulps or inhales air. There are many factors that may cause a horse to start cribbing and in this week's podcast, we address some of the latest research into the origins of cribbing. Stress is still a primary factor on why a horse may start cribbing, but there are other influences that owners should be aware of. We also address how ulcers may either be induced by cribbing or may be a cause of why a horse may start to crib. There are other health concerns with a horse that cribs beyond the wearing down of their front teeth that we address and what that may mean to your horse. In the past, it was believed that a horse should be prevented from cribbing at all costs. That attitude has changed, and we discuss why it may now be acceptable to let a horse crib, but there are management strategies that can be implemented to reduce just how often a horse may crib. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 141What Happens When Your Horse Doesn’t Sweat (Anhidrosis)
It is estimated up to 6% of all horses develop a syndrome where they start to sweat less and less, which is called "anhidrosis." Eventually, anhidrosis can lead to an almost complete absence of sweat from a horse. This is very concerning since sweating is the primary way horses cool their body temperatures. In this week's podcast, we discuss how anhidrosis may manifest in your horse. We highlight some of the signs to look for in a horse that is developing anhidrosis and what some of the dangers are if left unmanaged. Then, because these horses need to be managed to maintain their well-being, we also give some tips on how to alleviate their discomfort. We also discuss some of the available research on horses that suffer from anhidrosis, while also briefly giving nutritional tips on how to help these horses maintain optimal health. Finally, if you suspect your horse may be suffering from anhidrosis, it is critical you speak to your veterinarian, as only they can diagnose your horse. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 140What Does Ionophore-Free Mean for Horses?
You may have heard about “ionophores” and/or “ionophore-free” when it comes to choosing a horse feed for your horses. In this week's podcast, we discuss the risk to your horse’s health and wellbeing when it comes to their feed and potential for cross contaminated with ionophores during feed manufacturing. There are many instances each year where horses have died throughout the United States after accidently ingesting ionophores or ionophore contaminated horse feed. Thus, this is a topic relevant to all horse owners. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 139Deworming Your Horse, When & Why
Internal parasites (worms) can have serious negative impacts on the health and wellbeing of your horses. They can compete with the horse for any digested food or often feed off the horse itself. Most concerning is some internal parasites can cause internal organ damage as they migrate within the horse’s body. This is why deworming your horse is so important. In this week's podcast, we highlight why deworming is so important and then how we deworm our horses today. Much has changed in the past decade or so, where now we do targeted deworming and explain it here. Another great podcast for any horse owner. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 138How to Handle a Horse That Refuses to Eat
Horses are known for their ravenous appetite. Thus, there can be nothing more frustrating or worrying than feeding your horse and watching them refuse to eat. Yet, you should be aware of any of the possible factors that cause a horse to refuse their feed and deal with them quickly. In this week's podcast we highlight why a horse may refuse to eat. We discuss what steps you should take to check their health and then a few scenarios on why they may not be eating. It can be frustrating but more likely than not, your horse is communicating to you and you need to take note. Another great topic for all horse owners. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition
Ep 137Horse Poop: What It's Telling You
A horse’s digestive health is critical to their overall well-being and performance. While we often think of manure as just a by-product of digestion, it can be a good indicator of the horse’s digestive and overall health. Thus, in this week's podcast we talk about the characteristics of the horse’s manure, such as consistency of the feces. We also discuss how manure can indicate important information on the horse’s diet and any underlying health problems. This is a task every horse owner should do daily. You can learn more about these topics by visiting our expertise page HERE If you have any questions or concerns about your own horse, please contact us HERE This podcast was brought to you by Tribute Superior Equine Nutrition