- by Ben Nedas
Understanding grass varieties: implications for horse digestibility and sugar content
When managing pastures for horses, the choice of grass species is crucial due to varying digestibility and sugar content, which can significantly impact equine health. This blog explores various European grass varieties, focusing particularly on the issues associated with rye grass, a common pasture choice which is far from ideal for horses.
- by Ben Nedas
Spring Grass Alert: How to Safeguard Your Horse’s Digestive Health
As the season shifts, horse owners face the challenge of managing the fresh growth of spring grass, which can significantly impact a horse’s health. In a detailed Facebook post, Tom Beech, also known as the Osteopathic Vet, provides essential guidance on the potential effects of spring grass on equine well-being, particularly focusing on the hindgut.
- by Ben Nedas
Wet weather and flooded fields: Adjusting to Changes in Grazing and Diet
Wet weather in the UK poses several challenges for horse owners, primarily in terms of managing their horses’ diet and routine. Understanding the impact of these changes on equine gut health is crucial. Supplements like EquiNectar can play a supportive role in easing these transitions and maintaining a healthy gut microbiome.
- by Ben Nedas
The challenges of Autumn grazing
During autumn pasture turnout, particular attention must be given to horses prone to laminitis or suffering from insulin dysregulation. Additionally, due to changes in diet and grass composition, this time period increases the risk of digestive problems like colic and acidosis.
- by Ben Nedas
How a Wet Summer and the Autumn Grass Flush Can Worsen the Signs of Hindgut Disease
The unpredictable nature of the UK weather has taken a toll on horse health this year, with a wet summer and subsequent lush autumn growth exacerbating the risks of hindgut disease. In this article, we delve into how the unusual weather patterns have influenced fructan levels in pastures, the implications for equine hindgut health, and practical strategies for horse owners to mitigate these risks.
- by Ben Nedas
The Challenge of Dehydration Following a Wet British Summer
The British climate is nothing if not unpredictable. After a notably wet summer that saw equestrians managing the challenges of abundant, rich pastures, the sudden heatwave in September presents another issue: dehydration. The rapid transition from damp to dry, from chill to warmth, has a particular impact on a horse’s digestive system.