
The Equine Connection Podcast
220 episodes — Page 4 of 5
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
Ep 136Calculating the Value of Horse Feeds
In this week's podcast we chat about the costs and value of your horse's feed. We highlight what goes into them and what you should consider when looking at what to feed your horse. We also chat about the thought that goes into formulating a horse feed and the how it is made. 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 135Quarter Horse Feeding Guide
American Quarter Horses, or known as simply Quarter Horses, are the most popular breed in the United States. They are even quite popular around the world. Known for their versatile nature, athleticism, agility, and good nature make them a favorite among many horse owners. Thus, proper nutrition is vital for their overall health and well-being. In this week's podcast we chat about what makes Quarter Horses unique and what specifically owners need to be aware of. Not only is their diet critical in maintaining an optimal body condition, it also helps prevent the onset of various equine digestive disorders. Furthermore, nutrition is also very important in managing various genetic diseases that are seen in a higher prevalence with Quarter Horses than other breeds. 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 134Hay Cubes versus Hay Pellets for Horses
When it comes to feeding fiber to horses, most usually think of pasture or hay. However, other popular options can include the feeding of hay cubes or hay pellets. In this week's podcast we discuss the differences between hay cubes and hay pellets. We also give some suggestion on when you can use them and how to use them. We do note that both hay cubes and hay pellets can be beneficial to horses, but usually only under certain circumstances. 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 133Why Allergy Testing Can Be Unreliable for Horses
Horses, like humans, can suffer from a wide variety of allergies. From tree to grass pollen, to everyday dust and mold, to insect bites, and even certain foods, a certain subset of horses will experience some level of allergic reactions. However, identifying what exactly a horse is allergic to can be a long and expensive process. In this week's podcast, we tackle what allergy tests are available to horses and what they can tell you. There are also many unreliable and very expensive tests on the market, and we address why you will want to avoid them. We also cover what research has been done and how you can help alleviate your horse's allergies. 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 132Air Quality Impacts on Horses
We recorded this episode as fires raged in Canada that pushed smoke down into the United States and having major impacts on the air quality in both countries. These events brought up an issue we do not often think about and that is how air quality can impact our horses. In this week's podcast we talk about air quality and how it impacts a horse's respiratory system. We also highlight the Air Quality Index, which is used worldwide to measure how polluted the air is. It also can be used as a guide for you to evaluate your horse's training or riding schedules. We also briefly discuss how to manage your horses and how you may help them when the air quality is poor. 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 131How to Pick the Right Horse Feed
With so many options of horse feeds today, picking the right feed for your horse can be overwhelming. In this week's episode, we talk about some of the considerations you should think about when making those choices. We start out on how to evaluate your horse and what that may mean. We then address what you might consider when feeding hay and then what horse feed you may need. Then we give some general advice and where you may seek some help. A very good 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 130Fly Control for Horses
Spring is the time of year when flies begin to reemerge and pester our horses. In this podcast, we first provide an overview of the types of flies that bother our horses. Flies are also a concern because they can harm our horses through the spread of disease. From a nutritional point of view, flies can lead to loss of body condition. Further, horses can and often do suffer stress from flies by either the fly pestering them through constant buzzing, feeding off the horse's secretions, like around the eyes, and from biting them. All in all, flies are a major nuisance to horses and horse owners alike. Thus, in this episode, we focus much of our discussion on fly control. With all the tools available to horse owners, one newer area is the introduction of feedthrough fly products. We describe what exactly these are and how they work. Tribute® offers Essential K® with fly control and you can learn more 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 129Visual Appraisal of Horse Hay
In this week's podcast, we talk about how to visually appraise your horse hay and what it means for your animals. This is because high quality hay is critically important for providing your horses with not only essential nutrients, but also in maintaining their gut health. We discuss how not all hay is created equal and how to spot the differences. This is an important topic to help ensure your horses receive the highest possible nutrition from their forage. Every horse owner should have the ability to visually appraise hay carefully and correctly before purchasing, and here, we help guide you. 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 128Magnesium Supplements for Horses
Magnesium is one of the nutrients that is getting more attention in both human and equine nutrition. This is because, as a mineral, magnesium plays a vital role in both muscle and nerve function. Some studies have shown magnesium may help in reducing horse excitability. Antidotal evidence shows that it may help with horses that experience tying up or muscle soreness. Thus, in this week's podcast, we discuss magnesium, just how much horses receive each day in an average equine diet and if horses truly need it as a supplement. 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 127Water Quality For Horses
Water is the mainstay of life for not only us, but also for our horses. One major consideration covered in this week's podcast is not only the factors that influence water intake, but also the quality of water your horses drink. Understanding where your horse's water is sourced from and its quality is vitally important to their health and wellbeing. We also address water testing and when to get it done. An important 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 126Introducing Horses to Spring Pasture
Spring is a very busy time of year for many horse owners. This is especially true when transitioning their horse's diet. With the warmer weather, many horses transition from a winter diet of hay to being out on the beautiful, green and lush pastures. However, this is also a time of year where all owners need to be cautious. In this week's podcast, we discuss everything about spring pastures and what you should be careful of. This is especially important for those that have horses that are sensitive to sugars and starch. Regardless, it is critical information 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 125Managing Your Spring Horse Pastures
Spring is a time of year that is really dynamic for horse owners. One area that is really critical for many is the reestablishment of their spring pastures. This is important because pastures are not only an excellent source of nutrition for your horses, but they also provide numerous other health benefits. Thus, we address these benefits and the important nutrients that pastures provide, as well as what horse owners can expect as their pastures transition from winter to spring. We also do briefly address what types of cool-season grasses and legumes emerge in the spring and touch on when you can expect to see your warm-season forages emerge. Finally, we provide some management considerations to ensure your pastures remain productive for your equine companions throughout the year. 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 124NEW! Seniority® Low NSC Horse Feed
With all the advancements in equine nutrition, one area that we keep having to address is the amount of sugar and starch (NSC) in a horse's diet. Horse owners around the world are looking to feed their horses diets low in NSC. A new horse feed, Seniority® Low NSC, is now available to horse owners. It has a NSC value of only 10%! The question is, what type of horse is this feed intended for and who can feed it? That is the topic of this week's podcast. You can learn more about this feed and its nutrient specifications by going 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 123Sand Colic in Horses
Colic is the #1 killer of young horses throughout the world. One type is sand colic, which is when horses accumulate sand/dirt in their digestive tract. This can lead to impaction or other types of colic and can be very troublesome for many horse owners. In this week's podcast, we discuss sand colic, what the statistics show us, how horses get it and how owners can help prevent or limit it in their horses. We also talk about sand clearance products made with psyllium and if they are effective or not. 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 122Low % NSC vs. NSC Intake in Horse Diets
How we are feeding horses has changed so much over the past few decades. In one major shift, and the one you keep hearing about, is, low NSC (sugars and carbohydrates). Really, what nutritionists are talking about is the percent of NSC in that type of feed. In this week's podcast, we explain what the percent NSC in a diet (or horse feed) means and how to evaluate if it is a low, medium or high amount of NSC. The goal of any horse feeding program is to feed lower AMOUNTS of NSC, and how much you feed will depend on your horse. An important 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 121Energy Sources for Competition Horses
Have you ever been riding, and it just seems your horse runs out of gas (energy)? Alternatively, are you concerned that your horse is not competing at the level you want them to? It could be that your horse is not utilizing the right kind of energy provided to them in their diets. Our understanding of how horses utilize energy has changed so much in the past 10+ years. In this week's podcast, we discuss how horses use energy and which type of energy sources you should be feeding them. This applies to any type of horse, as they, too, use energy each and every day. 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 120Pros and Cons of Horse Nutrition Calculators
Across the internet, horse owners can find multiple versions of horse feed (or nutrition) calculators. While these tools can be useful, they can also confuse many. Thus, in this week's podcast, we tackle this subject and shed some light on them. We chat about where they can be helpful, especially as a learning tool. We then discuss some of the cons and how these calculators may not be very helpful and may lead you astray. As mentioned in the podcast, the most reliable (albeit less advanced) calculator is the one published by the NRC and 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 119How Much Fiber Does My Horse Need
We are back to revisit Fiber and finish up our discussion with just how much fiber a horse needs each day. Surprisingly, there is no set amount of fiber that a horse is required each day. So in this week's podcast we discuss what that means and how you can ensure your horse gets enough fiber in their diet. We briefly revisit the quality of fiber and why that matter and what types of feeds you should be selecting for 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 118Low Protein Diets for Equine Metabolic Syndrome: Yes or No?
There is concern that horses with Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) might need to be on a low protein diet. This thought is based on research out of the University of Kentucky, which showed that EMS horses when fed diets high in protein experienced large abnormal insulin spikes. Just one of the detrimental factors of horses with EMS. However, as interesting as it was the study may not have demonstrated what we typically feed horses in a day. Thus, in this weeks podcast we discuss this study and then the follow on research, also from the University of Kentucky, that investigated this phenomena further. Another interesting topic for any horse enthusiast. 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 117The Importance of Fiber Quality in Your Horse’s Diet
You hear about fiber week in and week out, when chatting about what to feed your horse. The quality of that fiber has a major influence on your horse's health, well-being, and performance. Thus, in this week's podcast, we chat about fiber, its importance to your horse and then jump right into fiber quality. We also warn owners about low quality fiber! Cheaper feeds may contain poor quality fiber, which can have impacts on your horse's digestive system and performance. This is another important 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 116Horses That Need A Low NSC Diet
The feeding of non-structural carbohydrates (NSC) is certainly a hot topic in horse circles around the globe. The days of feeding straight oats, crimped corn or sticky sweet feeds should be far behind us. We now know, through solid research, that diets high in NSC can lead to a whole host of health disorders in horses. Thus, in this week's podcast, we specifically highlight which horses need low NSC diets, and which horses might need a bit more support to reach their energetic needs. A must listen to episode 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 115White Line Disease in Horses
The saying of "no hoof, no horse" still holds true today than it did in days past. When it comes to hoof care, one of the ailments that can strike any horse is White Line Disease. This can be a serious issue that, in some extreme instances, can potentially result in euthanasia of the horse. However, there are steps you can take to help limit or prevent White Line Disease, which is the focus of this week's podcast. From your farrier to your horse's diet, with precautions and maintenance, you can help your horses overcome this hoof disease. 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 114Basics of NSC in Horse Diets
We are revisiting the topic of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC). For all horses, carbohydrates are critical to overall health, as well as performance. When it comes to sugars and starches, or the nonstructural form of carbohydrates, it can become tricky. For horses that have metabolic issues, are overweight, or are sensitive to NSC in their diets, thankfully, there are many ways to help them meet their nutritional needs. This is the focus of this episode, as we discuss the basics of NSC and why horse owners need to stay informed about this important nutrient. 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 113The Science of Building Muscle in Horses
As our advancements in equine nutrition continue at incredible speed, so, too, is our understanding of their exercise physiology. Some of the most interesting and promising research in horse showing is just how critical nutrition is to helping horses become better athletes. In this week's podcast, we discuss how muscle is built in horses. We then discuss what the research says about how protein and other key nutrients help build and maintain muscles in horses. Without a doubt, this is a very interesting topic for any horse enthusiast. 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 112Feeding Soy to Mares
Can feeding soy be harmful to mare reproduction? While soy is often thought by some to cause allergies in some horses (data says less than 5% of horse allergies are caused by soy), others wonder if soy can cause infertility in some mares. That is the question we answer in this week's podcast. We discuss why soy might be a cause of infertility in horses and then dig into what scientific data that is out there to show whether or not soy can be harmful to fertility. An interesting topic with some interesting perspectives. 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 111Feeding Horses with EOTRH
Dental disease can be crippling to any horse. One such disease is EOTRH, or also known as Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis. This disease primarily affects older horses and can be difficult to manage. Thus, in this week's podcast we explain exactly what EOTRH is, which horses may be more susceptible to the disease and how it can impact your horse's welfare. We then discuss the treatments available and how best to manage your horses with EOTRH and ensure they are eating properly. This podcast also highlights why dental care is so important to your horses. 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 110Misconceptions About Protein in Horse Feeds
Protein is one of the more discussed nutrients for horses. With that, there is a lot of misinformation and misunderstandings about protein and what it does for the horse. Thus, in this week's podcast, we tackle common myths about protein. Such as, is more protein better? Is protein a good source of energy for horses? Alternatively, can protein cause horses to be excitable/hot? We discuss these topics and more. 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 109The Dynamics of Herd Feeding Horses
It can be quite challenging to feed horses when they are grouped together. This can apply to a pair of horses up to a large herd. So, how can you do it and ensure all your horses are receiving all the nutrients they need? That is the topic of this week's podcast. We talk about how to manage their forage in group feeding situations. We then switch our focus on how to manage their horse feed intake in this dynamic. All in all, herd feeding comes down to monitoring your horses' behaviors and altering your strategies based on what works best for you. We also give some broad general feeding advice that applies to any 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 108Proper Horse Feed Storage
How we store our horse feed is actually more important than we often think. Not only can it cost us more when our horse's feed spoils or cannot be fed, it can also lead to a loss in nutrients and may lead to nutritional deficiencies. In this week's podcast, we tackle this topic and give you some tips and tricks. We chat about how best to store your forage. Then, we turn our attention to horse feeds, how to store them, how long they last and a few other specifics. All in all, feeding your horses is an obvious investment and proper feed storage helps protect your horses. 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 107Essential Oils for Horses
Essential oils are quickly becoming a popular alternative form of therapy for many horses. These should not be confused with food quality oils, or those that we feed our horses. Rather, essential oils are those that are derived from plants and are used either topically or as aromatherapy. In this week's podcast, we highlight which essential oils are currently being used by horse owners. We discuss the claims made by those that are using essential oils and what issues they may help with. We then discuss the research evaluating essential oils and their future potential. An interesting topic to say the least! 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 106Does My Horse Need a Senior Feed?
Because of the advancements we've made in our understanding of horse nutrition, many horses are living longer and healthier lives. Wondering when to switch your older horse to a senior feed is a tricky question for many. Thus, in this week's podcast, we discuss in detail what senior feeds are and when you may want to start feeding them. For many horses, age is just a number and there is no set age of when a horse will require a senior feed. There are many physical signs to look for and we explain these for you. Then, many senior feeds can and are often used as total forage replacement. We discuss what that means and how you should alter your feeding strategy to ensure your aged horse can get all the nutrients they need. 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 105The Rise in Costs of Horse Feed
Have you ever wondered how feed companies determine the costs of their horse feeds? Well, a listener asked us and we respond in this week's podcast. We carefully explain everything that goes into making a bag of horse feed and what it takes to get it into your hands. We then chat about how the multiple supply chains we use have been impacted by the pandemic and how they are influencing costs. Finally, we discuss how inflation and explain how ingredients we do not even use in horse feeds, but are used in other animal feeds, can still impact horse feed costs. An interesting topic to help answer a lot of questions about the rising costs of horse feeds. 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 104Antibiotics and the Horse’s Digestive Tract
At some point in their lives, a horse will likely get an illness or infection requiring antibiotics. We also may call these broader spectrum treatments "antimicrobials." The purpose is to, of course, kill off any harmful pathogen, usually bacteria, to allow the horse to heal. The problem with many of these drugs is that they kill off bacteria, fungi and other microbes indiscriminately, including the beneficial microbes in the gut of the horse. Thus, in this week's podcast, we discuss the effect of antibiotics on the digestive tract. We chat about what horse owners can do to help their horses during and after treatment to ensure they can maintain a healthy gut while taking their medication. Another cant miss episode! 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 103Feeding Your Horse After Colic
A horse suffering colic is unfortunately an issue almost every horse owner will face at some point. Put simply, colic is the general term used to describe any abdominal disturbance in the horse. It is often quite painful and understandably a worrying experience for all involved. Fortunately, with quick veterinarian care, the vast majority of horses survive colic. A small percentage of horses may also need surgery, but survival rates are high. This then begs the question, how do I feed my horse after they suffer colic? That is the focus of this week's podcast. We discuss the different ranges of colic and then what you can do as an owner to get your horse back on track. Another cant miss episode! 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 102Moody Mares, Oh My!
For a good part of the year, many mares throughout the world can become "moody." What this means is, due to a mare's natural breeding cycle, her body experiences drastic changes in her hormones. This often leads to mares becoming challenging to handle. They can be difficult to train, ride, and sometimes downright mean. However, there are many strategies, including alterations in their diet, that can help offset some of these behaviors. There are also other strategies, which we discuss in this week's podcast. It is only natural for the mare to experience these changes, yet, thankfully, there is help available. 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