Tag Archives: Equine Digestion

Horse Feeding Myths & Misconceptions

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Occasionally I will post an article from one of my friends in the equine nutrition field. One of the best of the best is Dr. Marty Adams.  I learn something every time I am with Marty.  Here is a great article he wrote about some of the common Myths & Misconceptions in feeding your horse.  Hope you learn something too 🙂

By: Dr. Marty Adams (PhD Equine Nutrition)

“Compared to most classes of livestock, there seems to be more myths and misconceptions when it comes to feeding horses. Many of these feeding myths appear to be long-held traditions that have been passed down from horse owner to horse owner. These myths or misconceptions are likely due to the fear of harming the horse, a lack of understanding of the feedstuff or the feeding practice, or thinking that the horse’s digestive system or nutrient requirements are similar to that of the human horseman. The old adage that “It’s always been done this way!” can be a powerful argument in keeping a tradition alive, in spite of scientific fact. We now have some scientific evidence that some of these “horse tales” are not true and may be harmful to the horse, so let’s review some of the most common horse feeding myths and misconceptions. Continue reading →

Welcome to the Nerd Herd Hero!

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ENN-Nerd Herd 2015

I recently received an email from a client that is dealing with arthritis in the neck of his 6 year old TB.  He was asking if there was any nutritional support that might help his horse.  This is how I answered:

“With most arthritis cases, nutritionally you have to make sure they’re getting certain nutrients to aid the body with inflammation and bone health.

I always start with my hay and make sure it is tested and has a higher protein level so that I know my horse is getting proper amino acids.

If the horse requires supplementation with grain for energy try to use one that has the three essential  amino acids guaranteed in the guaranteed analysis.

These include lysine, methionine and threonine.
Most feed companies only guarantee lysine.

Other nutrients that are super important for bone health are phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur and the trace minerals zinc, copper and manganese.

Vitamins A, C and B are all really important for anti-inflammatory and connective tissue health.

After you are sure his diet is adequate you can look at joint supplements.  I usually tell my clients to use one that has all of the joint support ingredients (rather than just one) as you never know which one your horse will respond to.

So look for one that has HA,MSM, Chondroitin, and Glucosamine.

Herbal supplementation would include devils claw for reducing pain, Bromaline for anti-inflammatory and yucca for anti-inflammatory.

I really like Uckle’s Arthrigen because it has everything in it.”

Hope this helps!

The Nerd

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Our new relationship

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Howdy Nerd Herd!

So excited to announce that we are a supplier for Silver Lining Herbs- Health Products for Horses! I love their herbal blends and have used them with much success with my clients. We carry the full line but here is a preview:

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#37 KIDNEY SUPPORT- Kidneys are an area where today’s horses are put under extreme stress with a chemical environment. The kidneys primary function is to cleanse the blood and produce urine, which excrete wastes; due to the critical and body-encompassing nature of this job, improvement in kidney function will help restore and relieve a wide range of systems and symptoms. Contains a proprietary blend of Marshmallow, Uva Ursi, Barberry, Garlic, Kelp, Parsley, Dandelion, Chamomile, Hydrangea and Juniper.  BEST SELLER!!!

427-2001#20 KEEP COOL- Riding an excitable horse in a competition or trail ride just isn’t as fun or productive as riding one who has his wits about him. #20 Keep Cool contains herbs known as “nervines,” which maintain a normal nerve impulse in the animal. Helpful in maintaining a calm, cool horse that still knows where his feet are…a state enjoyed by the horse as much as the rider. May be beneficial in supporting the overall nervous system in horses. Also may be beneficial for nervousness, stress, worry, spookiness and poor haulers. Contains catnip, chamomile, hawthorne, hops, rosehips, skullcap, valerian, Oregon grape, black cohosh, lobelia, mistletoe, burdock and echinacea.

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#30 DIGESTIVE- Gives the digestive system what it needs to function at its highest level. A healthy digestive system is of utmost importance to the overall health of any horse, particularly those prone to colic. An optimally healthy digestive system avoids problems, and offers more effective and efficient nutrition to the cells. #30 Digestive may be beneficial for digestive discomfort and indigestion, abnormal gut sounds, abnormal manure (either too hard or soft), digestive stones, sub-optimal peristalsis, back soreness, horses who won’t put or keep weight on, general digestive issues. Contains psyllium, slippery elm, chamomile, cascara, dandelion

If you would like to receive a catalog just let me know and I will pop one in the mail to you.  Or check out our Horse Care Shop at http://www.happyhorsehealthyplanet.com/for-your-horse.html

Peace and Good Feed,

ENN

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