Using marshmallow fluff to mimic foamy saliva in your horse’s mouth is no longer allowed in dressage competitions per the FEI and USEF. Marshmallow fluff and horses makes them appear to be softly chewing the bit and accepting the contact, but it can hide an open mouth, blue tongues, and resistance to the bit. Foamy saliva and sweat do no indicate relaxation or stress in horses.
Marshmallow Fluff and Horses Read More »
Black walnut trees are toxic for horses and can create laminitis and equine founder in a few hours with exposure to black walnut shavings. Tips for identifying these toxic trees, and how to spot the signs of laminitis as a result of exposure.
Black Walnut Shavings Are Toxic to Horses Read More »
Your horse’s vital signs and daily behaviors can tell you they are not feeling well. Incorporate checking your horse’s vitals as you groom, and notice their temperment and reactions to handling. Know the signs of colic, respiratory distress, laminitis, and other common horse diseases.
Signs of Illness in Horses Read More »
Alfalfa hay is a great option for some horses that need extra protein, energy, calcium, and calories. But, the higher calcium must be balanced with additional phosphorus in the diet. Also, watch out for blister beetles when feeding alfalfa to horses, as they are toxic for horses.
Feeding Alfalfa to Horses Read More »
There’s a link between lush, green grass and spring colic in horses. It’s the same mechanism that can trigger laminitis and happens when the hindgut of the horse’s digestive system has too many sugars and starches. Use grazing muzzles and slow feeders to help prevent gas colic in horses.
Spring Colic in Horses and Lush Pasture Read More »
Lush grass after winter can create founder in the spring for horses, especially those with metabolic conditions like EMS and Cushing’s. The higher sugars and starches react in the hindgut to create gas, endotoxins, and a changing pH that lead to laminitis and sometimes founder. Use grazing muzzles and treat spring grass like a diet change.
Founder in the Spring – Prevention and Care Read More »
Most quarter cracks in horses begin at the coronary band. Many are shallow, some are deep enough to bleed and cause lameness. Corrective farrier work is needed to rebalance the hoof and help this hoof crack heal.
Quarter Cracks in Horses Read More »
Monensin is an ionophore antibiotic for cattle, other ruminants, and chickens. In horses, it can quickly cause severe neurological and cardiac problems and often results in death. Avoid contamination by using horse specific feeds from trusted mills that are ionophore-free.
Monensin Toxicity in Horses from Contaminated Feed Read More »
Spend a little more time grooming your horse’s long winter coat, add a dollop of product, and feed for healthy skin to keep your horse shiny in their winter coat.
Improve Your Horse’s Winter Coat – 6 Easy Tips Read More »
Hay cuts differ primarily in protein, fiber, and energy content. Many horses benefit from second-cut hay for higher protein and easier chewing, while others may need first-cut hay for its higher fiber content.
First Cut vs. Second Cut of Hay – Equine Nutrition Basics Read More »