The Equine Connection Podcast

Help! My Senior Horse is Losing Weight

Dr. Nicole Rambo and  equine specialist Heather focus on managing weight in senior horses during the winter. They discuss a case study of a 28-year-old quarter horse gelding struggling to maintain weight in cold weather. Key points include the importance of evaluating feeding programs, understanding the limitations of certain 'senior' feeds, and exploring practical solutions for better nutrient absorption and calorie intake. They highlight the necessity of personalized feeding plans and announce various ways listeners can contact Tribute Equine Nutrition for tailored advice.

The episode underscores the value of individualized feeding plans and the benefits of fixed feed formulas to maintain horse 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 

Enteroliths in Horses, A Stone Where?

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah delve into the intriguing topic of enteroliths, or hidden stones, in horses' digestive tracts. They discuss what enteroliths are, how they form, and the nutritional and environmental factors that increase their risk. The hosts highlight the role of high-mineral diets, particularly those rich in alfalfa, and the importance of balanced nutrition and gut motility. They also offer practical advice on how to reduce the risk of enterolith formation through diet management and regular exercise for horses.

The episode underscores the value of individualized feeding plans and the benefits of fixed feed formulas to maintain horse 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 

Why Is My Bag of Horse Feed A Brick?

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss a common wintertime issue faced by horse owners: molasses feeds turning into bricks in cold weather. They explain the science behind why molasses-coated feeds harden in low temperatures, and offer tips on how to mitigate the problem, including adjustments made in molasses formulation for different seasons. They also provide advice on proper storage practices and how to break up bricked feed safely. The episode highlights the importance of understanding feed composition and seasonal changes to ensure optimal nutrition for horses during winter.

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 

Katie Van Slyke Listener Questions

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah engage with special guest Katie Van Slyke, creator of Running Springs Farm. The discussion centers around equine taste buds, the impact of seasonal weather changes on horse health, and nutrition strategies to prevent colic. They also tackle audience questions about improving nutrition for senior horses with health conditions, supplementation needs, and managing horses’ weight during breeding seasons. The episode highlights how proper nutrition and understanding horse behavior can enhance equine care.

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 

Top Equine Nutrition & Health Insights of 2025

In this episode, equine nutritionists Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah, focus on recapping the most popular and memorable episodes from 2025. Key topics include optimal feeding and nutrition strategies, digestive health, metabolic and body condition issues, and specific case studies, including rescues and underweight horses. The hosts also discuss the importance of monitoring horse manure, preventing colic and choke, managing respiratory health during large shows, and best practices for traveling with horses. The episode is filled with insights, humor, and practical advice for horse owners looking to enhance their equine care routine.

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 

What is in Your Horse's Holiday Stocking?

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss fun and festive ways to celebrate the holidays with your horses. The episode delves into suitable Christmas treats like apples, carrots, peppermints, and the holiday-themed 'lumps of coal' treats, while cautioning against items like chocolate and traditional fruitcake that can be harmful to horses. Tips on moderating treat portions to maintain horse health are also shared, along with fun ideas like adding a festive touch to their regular feed. The hosts wish listeners a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, and remind them to contact Tribute for customized feeding plans.

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 

Winter Weather & Limited Turnout for Your Horses

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah guide listeners on how to nutritionally support their horses during severe winter weather when snow limits turnout. They discuss strategies to manage the significant changes in horse behavior, stress levels, calorie needs, and digestive health when horses are stalled for extended periods. From small frequent meals and slow feed nets to specific gut health supplements like the constant comfort block and pellet, practical tips are provided to help maintain horse well-being. They also share creative enrichment ideas and emphasize the importance of monitoring body condition during these challenging times.

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 

Case Study: Equine Food Allergies & Intolerances

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss the complex issue of food allergies in horses. They explore true immune-mediated allergies vs. food intolerances, detailing their symptoms and the challenges of diagnosing them accurately. Two case studies are examined: an 8-year-old Quarter Horse with hives and an 11-year-old Warmblood mare with severe digestive issues. Dr. Rambo gives insights into diagnostic techniques, such as elimination diets, and offer practical feeding solutions for horses with specific dietary constraints. 

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 

EHV1 Outbreak and Your Horse's Nutrition

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss the ongoing concerns related to the Equine Herpes Virus (EHV) and its neurological form, Equine Herpes Myeloencephalopathy (EHM). The conversation covers essential information about the virus, its transmission, symptoms, and recent outbreaks. The hosts delve into the critical role of nutrition in bolstering the immune system, explaining how a well-supported immune system can better respond to pathogens and vaccinations. Dr. Rambo also shares insights from a retrospective study on the risk factors and protective measures during an EHM outbreak, emphasizing the importance of fortified products like ration balancers. 

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 

Case Study: A New Mounted Patrol Horse for Heather

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss their gratitude for the opportunity to talk about horses, their listeners' questions, and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Heather introduces the new addition to her herd, a 17-month-old Quarter Horse draft cross named Chicago. She shares the criteria she looked for in this horse, such as temperament and size, for his future role in a Mounted Unit patrol. Heather also provides insights into the responsibilities and training involved in Mounted Unit work. They discuss Chicago's integration into her nutrition program, emphasizing the importance of gut health support and a gradual introduction to new diets. 

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