The Equine Connection Podcast

In this episode we discuss the importance of nutrition in maintaining and improving hoof health in horses. Dr. Rambo & Sarah delve into the external factors that can negatively impact hooves, the role of various nutrients such as biotin, amino acids, calcium, copper, zinc, and iodine, and the importance of a holistic approach to diet. Dr. Rambo also talks about Tribute's hoof supplement, Tough...

In this episode, the first case revolves around the Essential K Rebuild formula with turmeric and the question of black pepper being necessary for turmeric absorption. Dr. Rambo explains why black pepper is excluded from the horse formula due to its impact on nutrient metabolism and other safety concerns. A research study examining the effects of turmeric on muscle growth in horses is also highlig...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and equine specialist Sarah discuss the special considerations needed when feeding and caring for senior horses. They delve into nutritional adjustments, common health conditions such as equine metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and Cushing's disease, and the challenges of managing these issues in older horses. They also talk about the importance of customize...

In this episode, Dr. Nicole Rambo and equine specialist Heather dive into a fascinating case study from Arizona about seasonal changes in horse manure. The episode explores why a horse that is consistently fed and exercised might produce fewer manure piles in the winter. Dr. Rambo explains the role of water intake, exercise, and gut motility in influencing manure output, and provides insights into...

In this episode we discuss setting equine New Year's resolutions. We emphasize the importance of evaluating and planning for a horse's health, fitness, and nutrition as 2025 approaches. We also share personal examples and expert advice on adjusting forage and grain intake, evaluating supplements, and optimizing overall diet and wellness. Finally, we suggest taking advantage of Tribute's personaliz...

This week we address ten common myths about equine feeding management. Topics discussed include the timing of feeding, the number of meals per day, the importance of forage, using raised feeders versus ground feeding, and the controversial use of bran mashes. We provide scientific insights and practical advice for optimizing horse nutrition and management. You can learn more about these topics by...

In this special episode, hosts Sarah Welk Bainem and Dr. Nicole Rambo are joined by guest Katie Van Slyke to discuss various aspects of equine nutrition. Katie shares her background as a lifelong horse enthusiast and breeder, and brings forward questions from her followers about feeding mini horses, pregnant mares, and preparing stallions for breeding season. They delve into selecting the right fe...

This week the focus is on a horse diagnosed with head shaking. The discussion centers around a case study that explores the potential benefits of feeding an alkaline diet to manage this condition. Dr. Nicole Rambo and Equine Specialist Heather delve into the specifics of the horse's current diet, the role of calcium in creating an alkaline environment, and various strategies to adjust the diet whe...

In this episode, the focus is on mysterious spots that appear on horses. There are various types of equine spots, including Bend-Or spots, bird catcher spots, vitiligo spots, tetrarch spots, and mottled skin. We delve into the causes and characteristics of these spots, debunking myths and providing clarity on whether they are related to nutritional deficiencies or genetic anomalies. We also give a...

Dr. Nicole Rambo and Equine Specialist Heather discuss a case study on hay shortages in the Northeast U.S. The conversation focuses on addressing forage concerns for horses during the winter, exploring various alternatives such as hay cubes, forage pellets, complete feeds, and hay extender pellets. They emphasize the importance of meeting horses' fiber requirements for digestive health and offer p...

Dr. Nicole Rambo and equine specialist Sarah discuss common myths surrounding protein in horse diets. They delve into questions such as whether protein causes horses to 'stock up', makes them sweat more, or affects their liver and kidneys. Each myth is thoroughly examined to separate fact from fiction. They also highlight the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring horses receive th...

Dr. Nicole Rambo and Heather, they discuss a case study involving a 17-hand warmblood horse with high selenium levels detected in its routine blood work. They explain the importance of selenium in horse diets, its toxicity, and deficiency symptoms, and the significance of different blood tests. The episode also offers insights into how to interpret these blood test results, considerations for sele...

This week the focus is on the frustrating health issue known as fecal water syndrome (FWS). Dr. Rambo and Sarah explores the symptoms, recent research findings, and potential causes of FWS, which affects horses’ manure consistency. Despite extensive research, the exact cause remains unknown, although certain factors like social hierarchy and hay quality appear to influence its occurrence. We end t...

In this episode, the discussion centers on whether or not horse owners should blanket their horses during winter. Dr. Rambo and Heather explore a case study involving a horse that is moving to a new, colder climate barn and has historically been blanketed. The conversation covers the pros and cons of blanketing, the horse's dietary needs, and the importance of adapting based on individual circumst...

In this episode, we explore the critical aspects of extending a horse's lifespan, with a focus on the influence of genetics, size, nutrition, and consistent care. We discuss the challenges and solutions in managing older horses' health, emphasizing the importance of a diet rich in fat and fiber for senior horses, along with proactive health checks like dental care, genetic testing, and blood work....

This week we delve into the diverse nutritional needs of horses, answering if senior feeds are for horses of all ages. Dr. Rambo addresses common queries, such as feeding requirements for a six-year-old Warm Blood in moderate work and transitioning to new barns with feeds like Tribute Senior Sport and Essential K. The conversation highlights the adaptability of senior feeds, their fiber content, a...

In this episode, we discuss various myths and truths about colic in horses. Dr. Rambo and Heather explore 15 commonly believed myths about colic, such as the effects of rolling, types of colic, the impact of diet and parasites, and the role of genetics. We provide insights into realistic risk factors, preventive measures, and management strategies for reducing the risk of colic in horses. The epis...

In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of proper meal sizing for horses. Focusing on two detailed case studies, we explore how to improve digestion and absorption to help hard keepers gain weight effectively. The episode covers why smaller, more frequent meals are beneficial and tackles common issues like feeding high-fat senior feeds and integrating fiber into diets during periods of poor...

This week we discuss the importance of supplementing vitamin E for horses, especially during the winter months. Vitamin E's role is as a primary antioxidant essential for muscle recovery, neuromuscular health, and general wellbeing. We discuss how changing from pasture grass to hay can affect a horse's vitamin E intake and the increased risk of deficiency during winter. We also explain the NRC's r...

In this episode, we  discuss two case studies focused on different feeding programs aimed at building a top line in horses. Horse number one, a 15-year-old thin thoroughbred gelding, struggled with maintaining weight and top line, leading to a revised nutrition plan emphasizing calorie intake over specific supplements. Horse number two, a 19-year-old thoroughbred in light work with good overall bo...

In this episode, the focus is on preparing horses for the transition from summer to winter. The discussion covers the importance of early preparation, nutritional changes as horses move from pasture to dry forages, and specific strategies for easy keepers and hard keepers. Additionally, the episode highlights the importance of maintaining hydration, performing fall wellness checks including fecal...

You may have heard about “ionophores” and/or “ionophore-free” when it comes to choosing a horse feed for your horses. In this week's podcast, we discuss the risk to your horse’s health and wellbeing when it comes to their feed and potential for cross contaminated with ionophores during feed manufacturing. There are many instances each year where horses have died throughout the United States after...

In this special edition, the team addresses the recent tragic loss of numerous horses, presumed to be due to Rumensin (ionophore) toxicity. Dr. Nicole Rambo discusses the safety and quality measures in horse feed production to educate customers concerned about ionophore contamination. Tribute's commitment to ionophore-free horse feed manufacturing and rigorous quality control protocols are thoroug...

In this episode, the focus is on a real-life case study about a horse not eating at a horse show. Dr. Rambo discusses the importance of assessing the horse's history, routine, and medical status to identify the cause of the issue. Various troubleshooting steps are suggested, including checking feed consistency, medical assessments, and environmental factors. The episode also touches on strategies...

In this episode, host Sarah and special co-host Dr. Nancy Jefferson discuss the co-mingling of horses and chickens on a farm. The episode explores the benefits and challenges of raising chickens alongside horses. Topics include pros and cons, fly control, pathogen management, nutritional insights for chicken keepers, and practical tips for integrating chickens into a horse farm. Dr. Jefferson shar...