The Equine Connection Podcast

Dangers of Mycotoxins in Horse Feeds

Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah delve into the crucial topic of mycotoxins and their binders in horse feed. The discussion covers what mycotoxins are, how they develop, and their potential health risks for horses. The episode emphasizes the importance of ingredient selection and testing in feed production to minimize these risks, along with proper storage practices for both feed and hay. The hosts also offer practical tips for horse owners to safeguard their feed and forage from mycotoxin exposure, providing a comprehensive guide to maintaining equine health in the face of unavoidable environmental challenges.

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: An Escaped Miniature Mule Named Badger

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss a unique case study involving a miniature mule named Badger. Heather recounts the story of how Badger was found running loose in town and later adopted by her friend. The team discusses the challenges and considerations in creating an initial diet plan for animals with unknown backgrounds. They emphasize the importance of gradual dietary transitions, monitoring body condition, and making adjustments based on the individual needs of the animal. The episode also provides details on how to create a personalized feeding plan for new equine arrivals.

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 

All About Hay Nets (& Horses)

In this episode Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using hay nets for horses. They delve deep into the topic, covering why hay nets are popular for managing gut health and extending grazing time, especially for 'easy keepers.' They also talk about specific situations where hay nets may not be suitable, such as for horses with dental or respiratory issues. The episode covers various research findings, including the impacts of hay nets on dental health and body condition scores, and highlights significant cost-saving benefits from reduced hay waste. 

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 Forage Is More Important Than Horse Feed

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss why forage is more important than grain for horses. They explore the basics of equine forage, the types of forage, and the differences between forage and grain. The conversation delves into the importance of forage for a horse's digestive health, mental well-being, and behavioral health. They also touch on common mistakes in forage feeding, how to assess if a horse is getting enough forage, and how hay types like Timothy, Orchard grass, and alfalfa compare in nutrition. Listeners are encouraged to pursue a forage-first diet to ensure their horses' health and happiness. The episode concludes with a reminder to check out Tribute's free personalized feed plans and their online presence for more information.

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: Handling Your Horse's Weight Loss After Travel

In this episode Dr. Nicole Rambo and equine specialist Heather discuss a case study on a mid-teens gelding that lost significant weight after a six-hour trailer ride to a competition. They explore the common issue of dehydration and fluid loss in horses during travel, the impact of body condition scores, and how stress and temperature affect metabolism and weight during trailering. The hosts share insights on post-trip recovery strategies and emphasize the importance of proper diet and hydration for maintaining a horse’s health during transportation. Listeners are encouraged to reach out for personalized equine feeding plans and further assistance.

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 

Reasons to Soak Horse Feed or Hay

In this episode Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss the practice of soaking hay and feed for horses. The hosts explore the reasons for soaking, which include reducing non-structural carbohydrates to manage metabolic issues, decreasing dust and mold for respiratory health, and aiding in hydration. They also provide specific guidelines on how to soak hay and feed, noting the impact on nutritional content. The episode highlights the importance of soaking times, potential nutrient loss, and practical considerations like avoiding mold growth. Listeners are encouraged to consider testing their hay to optimize these practices for their horses' individual needs. 

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 

Protein and Physitis in Horses

In this episode, equine nutritionists Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss a case study on a foal experiencing growth issues related to hypophysitis. They address common misconceptions about protein levels in creep feeds and emphasize the importance of sufficient nutrition, particularly protein, in the development of young horses. They explain the role of creep feed in bridging the nutritional gap between the mare's milk and the foal's growing needs and the critical nutrients such as trace minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. They also touch on when to transition foals to plant-based proteins and other growth formulas. 

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 

Managing Heat Stress in Horses

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah focus on understanding heat stress in horses, including its risk factors, prevention strategies, and the impact of diet on heat generation. They discuss the physiological signs of heat stress, from mild symptoms like rapid breathing and excessive sweating to severe cases that can lead to organ damage or death. They also emphasize the importance of acclimation, individual horse traits, and dietary considerations to manage heat stress effectively. Importantly, the episode also covers best practices for cooling horses, debunking some traditional methods, and providing recommendations based on recent research. Listeners are guided on how to use the heat stress index to decide whether it's safe to work their horses and how to adapt training routines to ensure equine safety during hot weather.

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 

Rating TikTok Horse Feeding Hacks

In this episode Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather explore and react to various trending TikTok horse feeding hacks. They assess the safety and effectiveness of different tips, which include feeding carrots and ice cubes as summer treats, adding molasses to make feed more palatable, using vegetable oil for quick weight gain, incorporating beet pulp for weight gain, relying solely on salt blocks, soaking beet pulp with apple juice, feeding straight oats, and using yogurt for gut health. They provide valuable insights and recommendations regarding each hack, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration and expert guidance in 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 

Best Practices for Traveling with Your Horse

In this episode of the Equine Connection Podcast, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah dive into the crucial topic of protecting equine health during transportation. The discussion covers the stress and physiological impacts of trailering on horses, including elevated cortisol levels, heart rate, and blood sugar. They examine the effects of short versus long-distance hauling and provide research-backed recommendations for minimizing stress, ensuring proper hydration, and maintaining gut health. They also explore the differences in how older and younger horses respond to transport stress, and share best practices for forage management and supporting immune function. Listeners are encouraged to plan their travel and arrival times to optimize their horses' performance and well-being. 

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