The Equine Connection Podcast

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 sto...

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 m...

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 co...

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...

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 healt...

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 insight...

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 wel...

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...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss the important topic of 'choke' in horses. They share experiences and insights on what choke is, the symptoms to look for, and immediate steps horse owners should take if their horse chokes. The hosts also delve into common causes of choke, including poor dentition, rapid eating due to anxiety or competition, and other contributing factors. They e...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss a new addition to their research team, a 3-year-old standardbred gelding named Dewey, who has a significant parrot mouth. They delve into the challenges and strategies for feeding a horse with this conformational defect, including Dewey's specific nutritional plan and the adjustments made to ensure he gains weight and maintains health. The epis...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss how the changing seasons can potentially increase the risk of colic in horses. They delve into various factors such as temperature and daylight shifts, reduced turnout time, decreased exercise, and changes in forage and water intake. They also provide practical tips on managing these risks, including the importance of maintaining hydration, makin...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss the impact of seasonal changes on equine behavior, specifically focusing on the transition to fall. They explore various factors such as dietary changes, decreased pasture quality, increased sugar content in grass, altered activity levels, cooler temperatures, and potential seasonal allergies. They emphasize the importance of reassessing feedin...

In this episode of the Equine Connection Podcast, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss the challenges of respiratory irritation or illness, commonly referred to as 'Congress Cough,' that horses may face during or after large, multi-week horse shows, such as the All-American Quarter Horse Congress. They delve into factors contributing to this issue, including environmental stressors, poor ventilation...

In this episode. Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss an intriguing case study about multiple horses experiencing mild to moderate colic. The common denominator was a new batch of hay from the same producer, highlighting the importance of hay quality, moisture content, and storage methods. They delve into potential causes including mold, fermentation issues, and nutritional changes, emphasizing th...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah focus on the essential role of the hind gut in horses. The discussion covers the anatomy and function of the hind gut, its importance to overall equine health, and the risks associated with conditions like hind gut acidosis. Dr. Rambo emphasizes the importance of a forage-first diet, the impact of stress on gut health, and the role of prebiotics, probiot...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss the challenges of maintaining horse weight and nutrition during severe drought conditions. They delve into the effects of high-fat diets on horses and why overfeeding fat can be detrimental. The discussion includes insights into fat digestion in horses, the importance of balancing forage quality with fat intake, and practical tips for making di...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Sarah discuss whether a horse needs to gain muscle, weight, or both. They explore how to determine the specific needs of a horse through body condition and muscling scores, explain the Tribute Wellness System, and provide strategies for safely gaining weight and building muscle. The discussion also covers nutritional interventions, appropriate feeding programs...

In this episode of the Equine Connection Podcast, Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather discuss the issue of grain mites in horse feed. They dive into a case study where a customer discovered what she thought was mold in her feed, which turned out to be grain mites. The hosts explain what grain mites are, how they thrive in warm and humid environments, and best practices for preventing and managing infesta...

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...

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 transi...

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 ep...

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 t...

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...

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 con...

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...