Happy Horse Nutrition

Your horse’s  hindgut microbes are the key to their health, happiness, and performance . In this episode, you’ll learn the  4 essential feeding rules  that support a healthy hindgut—and why those rules matter more than any gut supplement. Before you spend money on gut health products,  make sure your horse’s diet is doing the basics right . It’s simple, practical, and based on science. Discover an...

Want to unlock better health and performance for your horse? Start with the gut! In this episode, microbiologist Dr Belinda Chapman guides us through the fascinating world of your horse’s hindgut microbes — who they are, what they do, and why they matter. From the basics of the microbiome to emerging science on how gut bugs shape behaviour, health, and performance, this one’s a must-listen for any...

Ulcers, anxiety, and weight loss In this Q&A episode, Dr Nerida tackles real-world feeding challenges: what hay to choose for a horse with ulcers, how to support an anxious mare, and what to feed a Shetland that’s dropping weight (and yes! Who knew this was even possible!! 😂). Practical advice for keeping horses happy and healthy. Discover and download the MyHappy. Horse App:  https://www.myh...

Protect your horse from the inside out. Drought conditions increase the risk of ulcers, sand colic, and digestive upset — but smart feeding can reduce the danger. In this episode, Dr Nerida shares practical tips to keep your horse’s gut safe, happy, and functioning well when forage is scarce. The pellet I mention that can help with sand removal is: https://eacanimalcare.com/products/in-sand-out-in...

Feeding through drought? Here’s what your horse  really  needs. Drought can be overwhelming — but your feeding choices can make all the difference. In this episode, Dr Nerida shares expert, practical advice to help you keep your horse healthy, nourished, and mentally sound through tough times. Learn which hays are safe, how much to feed, and why vitamin E capsules and carrots might just be drought...

Feeding on the road? Don’t leave your horse’s gut behind. In this episode, Dr Nerida breaks down exactly how to feed during multi-day competitions to support performance, health, and wellbeing. Smart strategies for stress-free travel, happy guts, and horses that perform at their peak. Discover and download the MyHappy. Horse App:  https://www.myhappy.horse If you enjoyed this episode, please leave...

Did you know that our traditional exercise and management regimes of performance horses can contribute to a decline in bone health? And may even lead to catastrophic bone injury!  Learn how to keep bone healthy with world leading equine exercise physiologist Dr Brian Nielsen, Michigan State University and Dr Nerida as they discuss Dr Nielsen’s research into bone health that spans the last three de...

Lucerne before riding? Absolutely — and here’s why. In this episode, Dr Nerida explains how feeding lucerne (alfalfa) hay before exercise can help protect your horse’s stomach from acid splash and ulcers. Especially important for horses in regular work, this simple strategy could make a big difference to your horse’s comfort, behaviour and gut health. Discover and download the MyHappy. Horse App: ...

A horse's gastrointestinal tract is unique and complex. In this episode, Dr Nerida demystifies the horse's gut! Discover and download the MyHappy. Horse App:  ⁠https://www.myhappy.horse⁠ If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review! It really helps us to get grounded, science-based information to horse owners… and it is their horses who benefit the most! <3

Honouring our horses' ancient gut Welcome to the very first episode of the Happy Horse Nutrition Podcast! 🎙️ If you’ve ever wondered why “normal” modern feeding often leads to issues like colic, ulcers, unpredictable behaviour, poor condition, poor performance or picky eating… this episode is your starting point. PhD equine nutritionist Dr Nerida takes you back to the horse’s blueprint: 55 mil...