Alfalfa is one of the most debated feeds in equine nutrition, and few forages generate as many myths. In this episode, we take a science-based look at alfalfa for horses and break down where common beliefs come from and whether they are actually supported by research. We discuss protein, calcium, behavior, ulcers, and health concerns so horse owners can make informed feeding decisions based on the individual horse, not barn lore.In this episode, we cover:Does alfalfa make horses hot or more reactiveProtein, kidney health, and joint development mythsCalcium levelsWhy alfalfa is often recommended for ulcer-prone and performance horsesDifferences between long-stem alfalfa, pellets, cubes, and chopped forageThis episode is designed to help horse owners evaluate alfalfa for horses using evidence-based nutrition rather than opinion.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Herbal supplements are everywhere in the equine world, from gastric support and joint formulas to respiratory and calming products. But how much do we really know about herbal supplements for horses, and how well do these products actually work? In this episode, we take a look at commonly used herbs and plant compounds, separating tradition and marketing from research and real-world application.In this episode, we cover:-Popular herbal ingredients in equine GI, joint, respiratory, and calming supplements-What the research says (and doesn’t say) about herbs like slippery elm, turmeric, spirulina, and valerian-Why many horse supplements may be under-dosed and ineffective-Competition safety and commonly prohibited plant-based ingredients-How to think critically about “natural” products for horse healthIf you’ve ever questioned whether herbal supplements actually do what they claim, this episode will help you separate marketing from meaningful information. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Do horse joint supplements actually work or are they just expensive hope in a bucket? In this episode, we take a science-based look at equine joint supplements and the ingredients most commonly used to support joint health.In this episode, you’ll learn:-Why joint supplements are so widely used across disciplines-How cartilage, synovial fluid and healthy joints function in the horse and what happens when things go wrong-The difference between preventative joint support and inflammation management-What the research says about glucosamine, chondroitin, HA, MSM, ASU, resveratrol, green-lipped mussel, collagen, and silica-Why a balanced base diet matters before adding a joint supplement-What supplement labels can and legally cannot claim-How to spot red flags in joint supplement marketingWhether you’re caring for an arthritic senior horse or a high-performing athlete and trying to decide if a supplement is worth the investment, this episode will help you make informed, evidence-based choices for your horse’s joint health. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

This week, I’m joined by Dr. Krishona Martinson from the University of Minnesota, a leading expert in equine forage research. We take a look at her research on hay waste, what causes it, and how horse owners can significantly reduce loss and lower feeding costs.In this episode, we discuss:What research shows about hay waste across feeding methodsHow much hay horse owners typically waste and whyThe real financial impact of wasted haySimple ways to keep more hay in your horse, not on the groundFeeding strategies proven to reduce wasteCommon mistakes that increase hay lossHow to choose a feeding setup that fits your barnFeeding horses is expensive. It's even more expensive when their hay gets wasted.  If you’ve wondered how much money you are wasting and which hay-feeding methods actually work, this episode gives you clear, research-based answers that will benefit your horses and your wallet.References & Further Reading:• Martinson, K. et al. (2012). Round-bale feeder design and hay waste in horses. Journal of Animal Sciencehttps://academic.oup.com/jas/article/90/3/1047/4764420?login=false    Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Fat is one of the most misunderstood parts of a horse’s diet, yet it can be a powerful tool for weight gain, health, and performance. In this episode, we break down the most common fat sources for horses, how they differ, and when you should (or shouldn’t) use them. From rice bran and flax to oils, seeds, and supplements, we cut through the confusion so you can make informed feeding decisions.You’ll learn:The fundamental differences between different kinds of fatHow omega-3 and omega-6 fats impact health and inflammationWhich fat sources offer the best balancePros and cons of rice bran, flax, chia, canola, coconut, hemp, and moreWhy some horses benefit from EPA/DHA sources like fish oilHow to choose the right fat based on your horse’s needsA clear, practical guide to feeding fat the right way. Let’s dive in.Link to the article from Kentucky Equine Research discussed in the show https://ker.com/published/type-of-polyunsaturated-fatty-acid-supplementation-affects-red-blood-cell-fatty-acid-composition-in-exercised-thoroughbreds/?highlight=omega%203%20  For 10% of Kentucky Equine Research supplements click here https://shop.ker.com/scoop or the use discount code SCOOP at check outDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

It’s officially Thanksgiving week which means Black Friday deals, holiday chaos, and the perfect time for our annual Favorite Things Episode! Whether you’re powering through barn chores, traveling to see family, or braving the holiday madness, this episode is here to keep you company. Jill and Clair are sharing their 2025 favorite equine and barn-life essentials—from tack cleaning must-haves and barn organization tools to cozy clothing and practical gear that actually makes life with horses easier.Looking for gift ideas for your barn friends? Want to treat yourself to something that sparks a little joy? There’s truly something for everyone. Tune in and discover a few new favorites to brighten your winter season!  No sponsorships, no commissions, no affiliations - just products we genuinely love and use.  Rompf Evelyn breech Duluth Trading Women's Flexpedition Lined Straight Leg Pants Epona Tacknology Sponge Extend-A-ReachPromo code: scoopandscale2020% off entire orderMinimum purchase of $50.00Can’t combine with other discountsActive from Nov 24 to Dec 1 (1 week)Hemlock Lifeguard Hat Chamois Butt'r  Flexzilla Garden Hose Arma Air Motion Brushing BootsPromo code: SCOOP15 for 15% off order Valid until December 8th, 2025Carr & Day & Martin Canter Mane & Tail and Dreamcoat SmartMesh Ultimate Fly Sheet Flexineb  Emily Cole Illustrations Calendar Harbor Freight HAUL-MASTER Magnetic Trailer Alignment Kit    Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Beet pulp, is it a super feed or a risky choice? Used in rations for decades, beet pulp has recently become controversial and a polarizing topic in the horse world. We break down what beet pulp really is, how it fits into a balanced diet, and what the science says.In this episode, you’ll learn:-What beet pulp actually is and why it’s low in sugar despite its name-Why it’s called a “super fiber” and how it supports gut health-Whether you should soak beet pulp -How much beet pulp is safe to feed and what horses can benefit from beet pulp-How beet pulp impacts calcium–phosphorus ratios and whether it causes “big head disease”-Whether you should be concerned about  aluminum and glyphosate levelsBeet pulp doesn’t have to be confusing or controversial. Tune in as we separate fact from fiction and bring clarity to this long-debated feed ingredient.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Blanket season is here and so are the annual blanketing opinion wars! From “my horse never wears one” to “my pony has a full winter wardrobe,” every horse owner has an opinion. But what does the science actually say about blanketing horses?In this episode of The Scoop & Scale Podcast, we are joined by Dr. Michelle DeBoer from Equine, PhD to uncover the facts behind horse blanketing, coat growth, and thermoregulation.Dr. DeBoer’s research reveals surprising truths about how horses handle cold, when blanketing truly helps, and why no one-size-fits-all rule exists. You’ll learn:What really triggers a horse’s winter coat to growHow breed, body condition, and climate affect coat thicknessWhether blanketing can actually prevent coat growthWhy wind and rain matter more than temperature aloneHow blanketing impacts hay intake and weight managementWhen blankets help… and when they might hurtTune in to get practical guidance to help you make smarter blanketing decisions this winter.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0168159116302192 Reference: “Horses can learn to use symbols to communicate their preferences,” Applied Animal Behaviour Science, November 2016 Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

We are back with Kai Yun Lai, a certified equine dental professional, to further explore the powerful connection between your horse’s teeth, their diet, and digestion. In this episode:Why chewing and particle size matter for nutrient absorptionHow dental issues show up in manure & behaviorWhy poor dental health can cause weight lossHow your horse's dental health is linked to colic, and choke riskNutrition’s role in dental health, how the different things you feed and how you feed them impact your horse's teethWhether your horse is dropping weight, resisting the bit, just not thriving, or you want to understand the full impact of your feeding decisions on dental health, this episode examines the links between nutrition and dental health. To learn more about or to contact Kai Yun Lai click HEREDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In part 1 of our 2 part series on the impact of equine dental health on equine nutrition, we focus on what makes equine teeth unique and why having a qualified equine dental professional as part of your horse's care team is vital to their health and well-being. Our expert guest, Kai Yun Lai, a certified equine dental provider with a master's in equine nutrition, shares invaluable insights on:The fascinating evolution of horse teeth over millions of years.How your horse's teeth change over their lifetime.The important roles that the different types of teeth play. Common dental problems and signs horse owners should watch out for.The link between poor dental health and emergencies like choke and colic.Why annual dental checks should occur at least annually, and what a routine appointment entails.Key differences between equine dentists and veterinarians and what they're legally allowed to do.Don't miss this essential episode to ensure your horse's optimal health and well-being through proper dental care. To learn more about or to contact Kai Yun Lai click HEREEvolution of the Horse  Information and GraphicsDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Trees can be beautiful in the Fall but those pretty leaves and seeds may be toxic to your horse. In this episode of Scoop and Scale, we sit down with Dr. Krishona Martinson, Professor and Equine Extension Specialist at the University of Minnesota, to talk about poisonous plants and how to keep horses safe.You’ll learn:Some common trees, shrubs and pasture plants that are poisonousWhy some plants are more dangerous than othersSymptoms to watch for if your horse ingests something toxic  What to do if you suspect poisoningHow to manage your pastures reduce risksWhat to do if there are toxic weeds in your hay Practical steps you can take to prevent exposure in everyday settingsA must-listen for horse owners who want peace of mind heading into fall and all year round. To learn more about Dr. Krishona Martinson click HERE UMN Equine Extension Program Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/UMNExtEquine   UMN Equine Extension website: https://extension.umn.edu/horse/horse-pastures-and-facilities#plants-that-can-be-harmful-in-the-pasture-1241413  UMN Equine Extension YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgKrdVlbGmFtwWDqlI_h87Q  UMN Poisonous Plant Poster https://www.facebook.com/share/p/16G3KaV2jP/ UMN Poisonous Plant Book: https://bookstores.umn.edu/product/book/plants-poisonous-or-harmful-horses-midwest-book-2020-edition  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

What does it really mean to be an equine nutritionist, and how can horse owners tell if the advice they’re getting is coming from an appropriately qualified expert? In this episode, Jill and Dr. Clair Thunes are joined by Dr. Rachel Mottet of Legacy Equine Nutrition to discuss the often confusing world of equine nutrition credentials.In this episode we discuss:-Why “Equine Nutritionist” is not a protected title and what that means for horse owners-The difference between formal degrees (BS, MS, PhD) and non-credentialed programs-Why some PhDs believe the term “equine nutritionist” should be reserved for doctoral-level professionals-What to ask before hiring someone to evaluate your horse’s diet-The role of certified equine nutrition advisors and how they differ from nutritionists-How to spot red flags when seeking nutrition advice online -Practical steps to ensure you and your horse gets expert, evidence-based nutritional guidanceIf you’ve ever wondered how to separate expertise from opinion in equine nutrition, this episode will give you the tools to make informed decisions for your horse’s health.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Ever found yourself in the feed store (or deep in a late-night Google search) wondering if there’s a better horse feed out there for your equine partner? With so many options and so much marketing jargon, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. In this episode, we take you through how to read and understand horse feed labels, so you can cut through the noise and make confident, informed choices for your horse’s nutrition.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:- Why a feed's name can be misleading- How to find and understand the feed's purpose statement - What the guaranteed analysis really tells you - Why reading an ingredient list beyond the first few items is important- Why feeding rate and bag weight can drastically change the real cost per day- Common marketing buzzwords and product names designed to sway your decision (and how to look past them).By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clear framework to evaluate your horse feed so you can confidently answer the question: Is this the right feed for my horse? Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In this episode of Scoop & Scale, we explore the practical and nutritional role of hay pellets and cubes in the equine diet. Typically associated with senior horses with poor teeth or as a carrier for supplements, these hay alternatives have so many more uses and benefits. This is especially true during hay shortages, evacuations, or when managing specific health issues like equine asthma or free fecal water syndrome.  In this episode we discuss:- When pellets or cubes are necessary alternatives to hay- The difference between hay pellets and hay cubes- Why hay pellets may offer better digestibility and nutrient absorption than hay- Common myths around "processed" feed and fiber content- Practical tips on feeding during emergencies and ways to improve feeding time     If you're rethinking your forage options or just want a deeperunderstanding of hay pellets and cubes, this episode will give you theinsight and confidence to feed smarter. Mentioned in this episode:Ep. 38: Body Weight, Condition Scoring and Equine Nutritionhttps://scoopandscale.com/ep-38-body-weight-condition-scoring-and-equine-nutrition/  Ep. 49: Beyond Diarrhea: Identifying and Managing Free Fecal WaterSyndrome (FFWS) in Horseshttps://scoopandscale.com/ep-49-beyond-diarrhea-identifying-and-managing-free-fecal-water-syndrome-ffws-in-horses/  Pre-Vent Feeder https://youtu.be/VVUMjg5ENc4?si=i4HghUJKBy99QBbqiFeed Automatic Feeder https://ifeednaturally.com/ Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Is short grass really sweeter? Is tall grass actually safer formetabolic horses? Or have we been grazing on myths?  In this powerful,research-backed episode, we sit down with Dr. Michelle DeBoer ofEquine, PhD, the voice behind the viral post that ignited over 1,500likes, 400+ comments, and 1,200 shares—and shook up everything wethought we knew about grass height, NSC (non-structuralcarbohydrates), and sugar intake in horses.We dive into:-What current research really says about grass height and NSC levels-How time of day, weather, and pasture management impact sugar content-Why warm- vs. cool-season grasses behave differently-Why maturity doesn't always mean "safe" when it comes to NSC-Why forage testing and horse-specific data matter more than social media myths-How the equine research system works—and why more support is desperately neededWhether you're managing a pony with metabolic issues, a performance horse onturnout, or just want to feed smarter with science, this episode willchallenge what you know and empower you to make more informed decisions.Don’t miss the original post that inspired this episode:Tall Tales About Short Grass – Evaluating the Role of Grass Height & NSC Levelshttps://www.facebook.com/share/p/16sC8Xeqoo/Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Lately, we've noticed a growing number of horse owners online seeking advice on how to feed “forage-based” diets. But are they already doing this without realizing? In this episode, we dig into:- what constitutes a forage-based diet and how to know if you are feeding one- why terms such as “forage-based”, “grain-free” and “carb-free” when it comes to equine diets can be misleading- why using the wrong language can lead you to make unnecessary changes to your horse's diets, waste your time and potentially cause you unnecessary stress - how using these terms incorrectly opens the door for misinformation and falling prey to misleading marketingWhen it comes to equine nutrition, details matter. This includes how, and what words are used to describe our horse's diets. If you've ever felt confused by some of these nutrition buzzwords, or just want to make sure you aren't being misled, this episode is for you. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In our last episode, we explored how horses manage their body temperature and what happens when they experience heat stress. Now, we're diving into how to adjust their diet during hot weather! In this episode we discuss:hay adjustments to reduce metabolic heat, the impact of high-protein diets on hydration, whether or not your horse needs a biotic,and so much more!Plus, we'll cover crucial summer nutrients like chromium, the difference between salt and electrolytes, and how to manage electrolyte needs. We'll also share tips for safe feed storage and the importance of keeping those feed tubs clean!Kemin Chromium for Horses https://www.kemin.com/na/en-us/markets/animal/products/kemtrace-chromium/horse#KTCRFINDNOW Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Join us as we dive into how horses handle hot weather and the internal changes they undergo when stressed by the heat. We answer critical questions about horse physiology in high temperatures. We'll explore why horses get hot, how they regulate their body temperature, and what happens when they can't. Other important topics discussed include:sources of heat stress, natural cooling strategies, signs of overheating and what to do, how heat stress negatively impacts your horse's gut,inflammatory and immune response to heat stress,just how much electrolyte your horse is losing when he sweats,how exercise compounds heat stress,This episode is crucial for understanding how heat negatively impacts your horse even when everything looks just fine.  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In this episode, cover the secrets of equine coat health, from shedding season struggles to the crucial nutrients found in spring pastures. Discover why vitamin E levels matter, even when they seem "normal," and how to choose the right fats and oils, including the benefits of omega-3s over corn and soy oil. We'll also explore the importance of trace minerals like copper, zinc, and manganese, and how to ensure your horse is getting the most bioavailable forms. Plus, get practical tips on effective washing techniques, debunking biotin myths, and addressing issues like sunburn, hives, and tail rubbing. Whether you're battling summer bleaching or simply aiming for a gleaming coat, this episode has the expert advice you need.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In this episode, we explore the frustrating condition known as Free Fecal Water Syndrome (FFWS) in horses. If you’ve ever dealt with your horse passing brown liquid before or after manure, you know this condition and how challenging it can be. Join us as we welcome back Dr. Phoebe Smith DVM, DACVIM, (an internal medicine specialist), to help us understand what FFWS is, how it's diagnosed, and effective management strategies. Specifically we discuss:the differences between FFWS, loose manure, and diarrhea, the various potential causes of this condition, from diet changes to individual horse variabilitycommon myths around breeds that are more at riskwhen you need to consider calling your vettypical diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategiesdietary changes and supplements that might be beneficialwhether this condition requires treatment if your horse is otherwise happy and healthy.You can find more information about Dr. Phoebe Smith and Riviera Equine Internal Medicine & Consulting HERE Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Welcome to part 2. We're revisiting the complex world of muscle myopathies, specifically focusing on Myofibrillar Myopathy (MFM) in both Arabian and Warmblood horses. If you missed our previous episodes on PSSM Type 1 and the initial breakdown of other muscle myopathies, we highly recommend you go back and catch up. In this episode Dr. Katie Young returns to help us navigate the nuances of MFM-ER in Arabians, characterized by elevated muscle enzymes and desmin aggregates, and MFM-WB in Warmbloods, which presents with performance issues without elevated enzymes. Specifically, we discuss:Diagnostic differences between conditions,The progressive nature of MFM in Warmbloods, and what it means for diagnosing younger horses versus older horses. What we think the metabolic issues are that cause these conditions and how these differ significantly from PSSM, RER and MFM. Specific feeding recommendations for each conditions based on their metabolic differences. Common misconceptions about high-fat diets, and play a game of "Feed that Horse!" to apply what we've learned to real-life scenarios. Join us as we unravel the complexities of muscle myopathies and provide practical advice for managing these conditions.https://ker.com/ – KER discount code: CT001Kentucky Equine Research https://ker.com/nmdl/resources/ Pagan JD, Valberg SJ. The Role of Nutrition in Managing Muscle Disorders. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract. 2025 Apr;41(1):151-163. doi: 10.1016/j.cveq.2024.11.007. Epub 2025 Jan 27. PMID: 39875249.https://ker.com/wp-content/uploads/The-Role-of-Nutrition-in-Managing-Muscle-Disorders-Veterinary-Clinics-of-North-America-Equine-Practice.pdf Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Join Jill and Clair as they delve into the complexities of equine muscle myopathies, specifically focusing on what was once known as PSSM Type 2. In this multi-part series, they are joined by Dr. Katie Young, a leading equine nutritionist with Kentucky Equine Research. Together, they: - define all the relevant terminology- unpack the differences between PSSM Type 2, Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER), and Myofibrillar Myopathy (MFM) in both Arabian and Warmblood horses. - learn about how the various conditions are diagnosed, including genetic testing and muscle biopsies, - discover why accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment- learn what exactly is going on in the muscles of horses diagnosed with these conditions.Whether you're an owner of an athletic horse or simply interested in equine health, this series provides essential insights into these challenging conditions.Additional information - Equine Neuromuscular Diagnostics Lab ResourcesGlossary of terms discussed in the episode:Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (ER -) - “tying-up” associated with exercise that causes a syndrome of muscle pain/cramping and damage to muscle tissueType 2 Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM2-ER) - the form of PSSM that causes elevated muscle glycogen but that is not caused by the GYS1 mutation. It is brought on by exercise and results in elevated muscle enzymes and is now termed type 2-ER (PSSM2-ER).Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis (RER) -  is an intermittent form of tying-up in horses the cause of which appears to involve an abnormality in intracellular calcium regulation.Myofibrillar Myopathy (MFM) -  a new disease previously categorized as PSSM2, particularly in Arabian and Warmblood horses, is a genetic condition that describes abnormal build-up of desmin in muscle tissue.Myofibrillar Myopathy with Exertional Rhabdomyolysis MFM-ER - Myofibrillar Myopathy associated with exercise and elevated muscle enzymes found in Arabian HorsesMyofibrillar Myopathy without Exertional Rhabdomyolysis MFM-WB - Myofibrillar Myopathy that does not result in elevated muscle enzymes. Associated with exercise intolerance predominantly in Warmblood HorsesDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Grazing muzzles are extremely valuable tools when needing to regulate a horse’s pasture intake. However, many horse owners feel guilty about the prospect of turning their horse out in a grazing muzzle. In this episode Jill and Clair explain the benefits of grazing muzzles and why they can improve your horse's quality of life. We dive into:- how much grazing muzzles reduce grass consumption - choosing the right type of muzzle - proper fitting techniques,- how to introduce it positively to your horse- common challenges, unexpected benefits and so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com   Links discussed in the show:Facebook Group Slow Feed Solutions, Grazing Muzzles & MoreThinline - use code sands10 for 10% off your order of any grazing muzzle or muzzle accessoriesGG Equine - use code SCOOP15 for 15% off muzzles and muzzle accessories. One use per customer. Code expires 5/31/25Tough1 - https://www.tough1.com/training/muzzles.html Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Having pasture for horses is considered by many to be the horse's ideal living situation. But it's not as simple as just putting your horse in the pasture and walking away if you want not only your horse to thrive but your pasture to as well.  Quality pasture takes active management and is a constant balance of gazing, resting, weeding, mucking and more. If you are thinking of creating healthy thriving pastures or feel like you are losing the war against weeds, tune in.In this episode we are joined by Laura Kenny, Equine Educator at Penn State Extension.  Laura shares her expertise in pasture management as we discuss:-continuous and rotational grazing styles-overgrazing what it is and how to avoid it-pasture manure management-how and when to overseed-weed management-and so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com    Links discussed in the show:Pasture Evaluation Disc https://extension.psu.edu/pasture-evaluation-equine-pasture-evaluation-disc Bag test https://extension.psu.edu/are-my-forages-dead-or-dormant Penn State Extension Equine Pasture and Environment Management https://extension.psu.edu/animals-and-livestock/equine/pasture-and-environment-management?tab=default To learn more about rotation grazing https://extension.psu.edu/how-to-make-rotational-grazing-work-on-your-horse-farm Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Tying-up is a muscle condition in horses that has long plagued owners. From random one off episodes on warm sunny days to recurrent ones during exercise tying-up can result from many causes. Some, like Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM1) are the result of a genetic condition that affects muscle metabolism, leading to muscle stiffness and pain. In this episode we discuss:- what defines recurrent tying-up- causes and symptoms of tying-up-breeds affected by PSSM 1-how to test for PSSM 1-appropriate feeding programs for horses with PPSM 1-management and exercise requirement for horses with PSSM1-and so much more!To learn more about the United States Pony Club HERE  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Whether the result of heavy rain or snow melt, this time of year many horse facilities are struggling with mud. In this episode we explore practical tips and expert insights on managing mud and manure on your horse property. From improving facility drainage and minimizing mud in high-traffic areas to creating clean, dry spaces where your horses can eat and relax, we've got you covered.This week’s special guest Alayne Blickle from Horses for Clean Water joins Dr. Clair and Jill and shares her expertise on mud and manure management as well as advice on protecting waterways. We cover topics including:what mud actually iswhy mud is not your horse's friendthings to do when you already have mud in high traffic areascommon mud mitigation mistakeswhere to put your manure pilehow to ensure that your manure pile is not polluting waterwayshow to manage drainage on your facility how to create mud free shelters and eating areashow your horse's diet may be contributing to environmental pollutionAnd so much more!To learn more about Alayne Blickle and Horses for Clean Water:Website https://horsesforcleanwater.com/  Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/HorsesForCleanWater Instagram https://www.instagram.com/horsesforcleanwater/?hl=en   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Proper nutrition is critical for successful horse reproduction. Mares require a balanced diet with adequate energy, protein, vitamins and minerals to support optimal reproductive function. During pregnancy, nutritional demands increase although not as much as many people believe. The greatest nutritional demands are during lactation. Research shows that the mare's diet during conception can impact the future health and athletic ability of her foal.  Stallions also require a balanced diet to fuel reproductive exertions and maintain optimal fertility. In fact there may be ways to improve semen quality through nutrition. In this episode we discuss:-Ideal body condition in the mare for increasing chances of conception-How to improve semen quality in stallions -How energy and other nutrient requirements change during pregnancy-Which dietary nutrients are linked to developmental orthopedic conditions in foals-How nutrient demands increase during lactation and how to meet them-Best hays for broodmares-And so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Winter months can be tough on hooves! Whether you're battling mud, snow, freezing temperatures, or dealing with hoof conditions like laminitis and thrush, we've got you covered. Join us for an expert-led discussion featuring Dr. Sammy Pittman, DVM an equine podiatry specialist, as we explore practical tips and solutions for winter hoof care. Whether your version of winter is warm and wet or snow and ice, Dr. Pittman shares practical advice on how to keep your horse's hooves in great shape this winter. Tune in and listen as we discuss the following:What happens to hooves in wet conditionsThrush, how it develops and how to treat itThe risks of obesity to hoof healthWinter laminitis and how it differs from laminitis at other times of yearHoof sealants and dressingsHow to stop snow balls in your horse's hoovesThe pros and cons of pulling shoes in winterAnd so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com  Dr.  Sammy PittmanFacebook https://www.facebook.com/innovativeequinepodiatry Innovative Equine Podiatry https://www.innovativeequinepodiatry.org/ https://www.horsescience.com/contact-8https://www.facebook.com/horsescienceanatomyworks https://shopmyces.com/Products Pitty Putty https://shopmyces.com/collections/hoof-care/products/iepvs-pitty-puttyKera-Prep https://shopmyces.com/collections/hoof-care/products/kera-prep-hoof-hardenerHydroHoof https://redhorseproducts.com/shop/hoof-care/hydrohoof/  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Severe winter weather always raises concerns among horse owners regarding the management of various cold weather challenges and the proper care of their horses.  What counts as severe depends on where you live but no matter the location the biggest concerns tend to relate colic risk and weight loss. In this episode we discuss:how to keep your horses hydrated when their water is freezingwhether feeding more hay or grain is best to maintain body condition in cold weatherthe importance of salt for hydrationwhy horses are at greater risk for impaction colic when temperatures freezeHow your horse can use their diet to keep warmWhy blankets can help reduce your feed billPlus tips on how to make winter barn chores more manageableand so much more!Do you have questions about your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

With your horse's estimated body weight and condition score in hand you now have what you need to move on towards assessing their diet. In this episode we discuss:how to determine what your horse's minimum forage intake should be each dayhow to determine their actual forage intakethe importance of weighing everything that you are feeding your horsehow to use the feeding directions on bagged feed along with body weight and condition to determine if you are feeding the correct kind of concentrate feedthe kinds of changes to consider making if things aren't what they should beand so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Body condition scoring is an objective technique used to determine whether a horse is in optimal condition or not. When a horse's body condition is less than or more than optimal it suggests that the dietary calorie intake needs to be adjusted. Once you know if your horse's condition is optimal, knowing its weight is important so that you can determine how to feed commercial feeds and supplements correctly. Various methods exist for estimating body weight when a scale is not available. But how accurate are these methods, and how do we know if this weight is actually a good one or not? In this episode we talk about:Why guessing your horse's weight is not a good ideaHow to use a weight tape and whether they are accurateBody weight calculations and whether they are better than weight tapesWhat condition scoring is and how to do itHow to use body condition to determine whether your horse's current weight is idealConsiderations around breed, conformation and discipline when determining ideal body conditionFor instructions on body condition scoring click HEREFor a video on body condition scoring click HEREFor a video on how to take weight measurements click HEREDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Protein is perhaps one of the more misunderstood nutrients in the horse's diet and one that is associated with several feeding myths. Involved in every cell in the horse's body, it is certainly of vital importance and yet it's not really protein that horses need but the amino acids they contain. Join us for this episode where we take a deep dive into all things related to protein including:What protein isWhat amino acids are and why some are essentialWhy protein on product labels is titled "crude protein"Why amino acid balance is importantWhat constitutes quality proteinCommon sources of quality protein in the equine dietWhat can happen if your horse is not getting enough proteinProtein supplement and how to feed themThe downsides to feeding too much proteinAnd so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

It is Thanksgiving week, Black Friday Sale Week and the beginning of the Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa Countdown. To keep you company while you slowly lose your mind, we decided to do our favorite things episode.  Jill and Clair share a few products that bring them delight, everything from horse treats, organization and more!  Whether you are buying a gift for yourself or a horse friend, there is something for everyone.***We received no compensation and have no affiliation with any of the products mentioned***Canadian mints https://a.co/d/6yEkKt9The Organized Barn & Trailer https://organizedbarn.com/ Tags 4 Nags - use code SCOOPANDSCALE10 at checkout between 25th Nov and 2nd Dec for a 10% discount.https://tags4nags.co.uk/https://www.etsy.com/shop/Tags4Nags Disc Cones - https://a.co/d/eKV82Pd                    - https://a.co/d/6wlXEOzThe Bedding Blocker - use code SCOOP for $5 off each item purchasedhttps://www.beddingblocker.com/Charles Owen Kylo - https://www.charlesowen.com/products/kyloMountain Horse Veganza Ladies Winter Tall Boots https://mountainhorseusa.com/product/veganza-ladies-winter-tall-boot-mountain-horse/ Original MagicBrush https://www.magicbrush.com/en/product/magicbrush-brush-set-jellyfish/993169/947701 Halter Ego - https://shophalterego.com/ Lumiere Equestrian - https://www.lumiereequestrian.com/en-us 32 Degrees - https://www.32degrees.com/Ororo Vest - https://www.ororowear.com/collections/heated-vest?srsltid=AfmBOoooF3qaUMWfL4lNvF4toXosjF1ww8ct2kZj2BnY-l2G4rnLkjri Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Although often considered a solution for overweight equines, the truth is, slow feeders can offer enrichment to all horses. By helping to mimic more natural grazing behaviours these feeders can be a tool to help combat boredom as well as to help manage calorie intake. Making horses work a little harder for their food has many benefits but not all enrichment needs to involve food. In this episode we take a good look at the following:- slow feed nets- slow feeders that do not require nets-  things to consider when introducing slow feeders- how to get your barn owner on-board with slow feeders- how to slow the consumption of grain- the benefits of track systems- stall toys Promo Codes:https://haychix.com/     discount code HCX20 for 20% off   https://www.gg-equine.com/  discount codeCLARITY15  for 15% off all hayplay bagshttps://freedomfeeder.com/ 25% off Black Friday/cyber Monday sale from 11/29-12/2, shipping is always free in the USA for orders $150+.  Use the code BFCMhttps://fatponyfeeders.com/  discount code SCOOP15 for 15% offhttps://savvyhorseproducts.com/     discount code SCOOPANDSCALE for 10% off Black Friday sale the week of Thanksgiving no codes needed https://www.thehaypillow.com/ discount code ScoopandScale for 5% off Drop N Slow - https://dropnslow.com/ Shires Carrot Ball - https://shop.shiresequestrian.com/carrot-ball-usa8100 Amazing graze -https://horsemenspride.com/products/amazing-graze-horse-toy?srsltid=AfmBOopa36V1LjJrvDJU-sAZ6m1eLbzPSC7i6Aflvc9aFNqwyF7rk1eP Optimizer - https://wishingwell-ltd.com Porta-Grazer - https://porta-grazer.com/ Pre-Vent Feeders - https://www.mypre-ventfeeders.com/  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Gastric ulcers can be a frustrating and costly burden for horse owners to manage, which is why any experienced equestrian who has had to deal with this debilitating condition is highly motivated to prevent them from reoccurring. For those who have been fortunate enough to avoid this affliction thus far it makes sense to take steps to try to avoid having your horse having them. As an equine nutritionist a large number of my clients are people whose horse has been diagnosed with gastric ulcers and in particular recurring ulcers. Often they are looking for a supplement that can offer support but while supplements may help the bigger picture requires a more extensive review of how their horse is being managed.In this episode dive deeper into:- why forage intake is key to gastric health- different types of forage and how to use them to reduce ulcer risk- why high starch grains are not ideal for horses at risk of gastric ulcers- gastric buffers and how best to use them- ingredients aimed at coating the stomach lining or making it more robust- management issues that can be a big deal but are often overlooked-and so much more!Through a multipronged approach targeting diet, management, and supplementation, owners can significantly reduce the risk of their beloved horses having to deal with this all-too-common ailment, allowing them to maintain peak performance and overall well being. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.comDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In this episode we delve into one of the most pressing concerns for horse owners: managing equine gastric ulcers. Many owners reach out to Dr. Clair for help managing their horses diagnosed with equine gastric ulcers, especially chronic and recurrent cases.  In this episode we are joined by guest Dr. Phoebe Smith DVM DACVIM, Veterinarian and Internal Medicine Specialist at Riviera Equine Internal Medicine and Consulting in California. Dr. Phoebe helps us to understand this complex condition while Dr. Clair shares her personal experiences and frustrations of managing ulcers after facing them firsthand with her own horses. Join us as we explore the symptoms, causes, and effective management strategies for equine gastric ulcers. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian or a new horse owner, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate this tricky condition. In this episode we cover- signs that your horse might have gastric ulcers;- why scoping is the ultimate diagnostic;- squamous vs glandular gastric ulcers;- drugs commonly used to treat gastric ulcers and why one size does not fit all;- important considerations on when and how to give these drugs;- how to tell that it's ok to stop treating;And so much more!Tune in and empower yourself with knowledge to better support your equine companion!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Feeding senior horses especially over the winter can be a challenge as many lose condition over these colder months.  Some senior horses require different approaches to feeding to ensure their needs are met as what worked in their younger years may not work any more. Chewing can become a challenge requiring frequent dental care and the possibility of needing alternative feed forms. Additionally some senior horses may benefit from supplements like joint support or digestive aids due to arthritic changes and less efficient digestion. By understanding these needs, paying close attention to their diet, overall health and living situation we can help senior horses live happy and fulfilling lives.In this episode we discuss:When does a horse become a senior horse;What is any special nutrient requirements senior horses have;What senior feeds are and when they may be necessary;Other alternative feed forms that may benefit senior horses;Dental needs and limitations senior horses;How pain may impact your senior horse's body condition;If and when to use blankets with your senior horse;And so much more! Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Feed labels are the informational panels found on the backs of feed bags or seen in to the bottom seem. These labels provide a wealth of important details about the contents and composition of the feed, allowing horse owners to make informed decisions about how the feed might meet the nutritional needs of their horse. While the majority of these labels share a lot of information about the specifics of the feed such as the ingredients included and the amounts of various nutrients such as protein, fat, fiber, they also omit some surprising things.In this episode we discuss:-the legally required label information;-who decides what must be on a label;-how to use ingredients lists to understand the feed;- what nutrients are guaranteed and how to use this information;-the measurements units often used on feeds;-feeding directions why they can make or break whether a feed will work for your horse;-answer listener feed label questions;-and so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Many horses are fed hay at some point during the year. Whether only in winter when pastures are sparse or year round due to lack of pasture access, hay is a vital source of nutrition for your horse and a major investment for you. This is the time of year when many owners are making decisions on the type of hay they will feed for the next year and are filling their hay barns. But what type of hay is right for your horse, how do you tell if it's good quality and what are the differences between the different types? In this episode we discuss:-Different types of grass hay and their different nutritional properties;-How legume hays like alfalfa differ from grass hay;-Which horses benefit from legume versus grass hays;-How maturity at cutting impacts the hay's nutritional value;-What happens when hay is baled when it is too wet;-Hays you should avoid feeding;-Pros and cons of large versus small bales;And so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

With more and more knowledge of the importance of gastrointestinal health on our horse's entire health, an ever increasing number of feeds and supplements on the market claim to support gut health. Prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics have become commonly utilized ingredients but what exactly are they and does your horse need them? In this episode we discuss:- what prebiotics, probiotics and postbiotics are and the difference between them;- what they actually do;- when horses might need them in their diet;- reasons why they don't always work;- how to pick a quality gut health feeds and supplements;And so much more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Maintaining optimal weight and peak performance in horses, especially those used for high-intensity athletic activities, can be a delicate and ongoing challenge for even the most experienced equestrian. Throughout the various seasons and demands of the competition calendar, a horse's nutritional and exercise needs are in constant flux, requiring vigilant monitoring and adjustment to ensure they retain their competitive edge. Factors like changes in training load, seasonal shifts in forage quality, and the stresses of travel and competition can all contribute to weight loss and performance deficits. It can be difficult to strike the perfect balance. Even when a horse is maintaining their weight, these stressors can lead to subtle changes in muscle tone, energy levels, and overall attitude that impact performance.In this episode we discuss these factors and others that may contribute to loss of weight and performance in our competition horses and share steps you can take to keep your equine athlete in top form.If you have questions about feeding your horse, please email us at info@scoopandscale.com Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In part 2 of our 2 part series Behind the Scenes at the Summer GamesDr. Clair talks to Dr Joe Pagan owner and President of Kentucky Equine Research (KER). In addition to doing equine nutrition and exercise physiology related research work, KER have also sourced the feed for the last 7 Summer Games. They discuss: - how teams coordinate getting the feed their horses need to the games; - how you find enough carrots and other behind the scenes Games related stories; - the ground breaking research KER has done over the past 30 years; - what Dr Pagan wishes all horse owners would keep in mind when feeding their horses;And so much more. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Wonder what goes on behind-the-scenes and what it takes to get horses to major international competitions?  In this episode Dr. Clair and Michelle are joined by Max Corcoran, a freelance groom, equestrian event organizer, and former longtime member of the O’Connor Event Team.  Max shares what it’s like to manage horses on the U.S. Equestrian Team as they travel to international competitions. You will learn about:The role of an elite professional groom.Essentials she always packs for the horses under her care.The importance of nutrition for elite equine athletes and the challenges of shipping feed to other countries.How horses are transported internationally.Paperwork, paperwork, paperwork (we bet that isn’t what comes to mind when you think about grooms!).The thing she always forgets (and her riders really need!).And more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Equine feed labels and hay analysis results are full of abbreviations such  as ADF, NDF, CP, NSC, and WSC and together they make up an alphabet soup. Ever wonder what they all mean and whether they are important to your horse? And what about gas? Has your horse ever passed gas while being ridden? In this episode Dr Clair and Michelle answer some, listener questions, topics including:-How much hay to feed your retired pasture horse;-What might be causing excessive flatulence;-Is feeding a balancer alone enough for a horse working moderately hard;-And so much more!If you have questions about feeding your horse, please email us at info@scoopandscale.com   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Fly management is a crucial aspect of horse barn management this time of year. Flies—here we're talking about stable flies, horse flies, gnats, mosquitoes, and more—​are a nuisance to horses and humans alike. They cause our horses discomfort, stress, and even the spread of diseases, such as Potomac horse fever, West Nile virus, pigeon fever, and vesicular stomatitis. And many horses exhibit signs of insect bite hypersensitivity (IBH), and allergic reaction to the saliva of biting flies that results in hives and severe itching. Effective fly management involves a combination of methods, including eliminating breeding sites, using insecticides and repellents, and providing alternative attractants for flies. It's a constant struggle!In this episode Dr. Clair and Michelle talk about:-Using fly traps and tape;-Effective manure management;-Nutrition strategies that might help horses cope;-Applying insecticide and repellent sprays and ointments; and-Water bucket and feed tub management to limit insect breeding grounds.Join us as we discuss implementing a multifaceted approach to fly management!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Temperatures are starting to rise across the country!  We start to think about ways of keeping our horses cool in the summer months.  Switching turn out times to overnight hours, hanging fans and adding electrolytes are some of the common things that people do.  Horses rely heavily on sweating to keep cool.  In this episode, we talk to Dr. Samantha Brooks from the University of Florida where she heads up the Brooks Equine Genetics Lab.  In this episode we talk about:How horses cool themselves;What is happening when their cooling systems don't work;What is anhidrosis;Is this a permanent condition;Best practices to help keep horses sweating and cool;The state of equine research funding in the US;And so much more!To learn more about Dr. Samantha Brooks and the Brooks Equine Genetic Lab http://www.ufequinegenetics.org/home.html Do you have questions about feeding your horse?  Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

As we start our second season of the podcast, Dr. Clair takes time to answer listener questions.  In this episode Dr. Clair answers questions about:-the difference between dry milled flax and flax oil;-feeding instructions on feed bags;-adjusting feed based on exercise;-and more! If you have questions about feeding your horse, please email us at info@scoopandscale.com  NRC Equine Nutrition Calculator - https://webassets.nationalacademies.org/nrh/ Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Do you have an easy keeper? Dr. Laura Javsicas, a board-certified internal medicine specialist with Rhinebeck Equine, in New York, joins Clair and Michelle to talk about insulin resistance and dysregulation in horses. In this episode, you'll learn about:Insulin’s relationship to equine metabolic syndrome and pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, or equine Cushing’s).The link between insulin response and laminitis.The clinical signs of insulin dysregulation and resistance in horses.How veterinarians test for insulin dysregulation.Treatment and management of horses with metabolic issues.Do you have questions about IR or ID? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Horse show season is here! And, while showing is mostly fun, the travel and work intensity competition requires can cause stress for horses and humans. We know stress impacts horses’ digestive health and immune systems, which can set them up for colic, gastric ulcers, and diarrhea. In this episode, Dr. Clair and Michelle discuss ways to prepare and manage your horse during travel to horse shows, clinics, trail rides, or wherever the summer leads you.  In this episode we talk about:Why travel is stressful for horses;The importance of hydration and how to keep your horse drinking;How stress affects horses’ gastrointestinal microbiomes;The role of stomach buffers and preventive treatments in avoiding gastric ulcers;How forage can help;And more!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

While forages can be assessed visually, the only way to accurately know the nutrient content of your forage is to have it tested by a lab. This is easier and cheaper to do than many people realize and is worth considering if you buy large quantities of forage at a time. In this episode we talk about hay analysis with Cassy Streeter, NIR Services Manager from Equi-Analytical.   Equi-Analytical Laboratory Services specialize in the most modern techniques for determining the nutrient content of forage and feed for horse owners.In this episode we discuss:-the reasons to test your forage.-how to test your forage.-analysis results and so much more!You can learn more about Equi-Analytical and the services they offer at https://equi-analytical.com/   Cassy Streeter Bio:Cassy Streeter grew up in Syracuse, New York and started working at a horse boarding facility as a teenager. After graduating from Cornell with a B.S. in Animal Science in 2006, she worked in various lab tech positions before returning to Cornell's Animal Science Department to complete her M.S. studying the genetics of Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Equine Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) in the Arabian horse.  Cassy started as an Associate NIR Network Administrator at Dairy One in March 2011 and supervised daily NIR production activities. After moving into her role as NIR Services Manager in 2019, Cassy assumed oversight of the Dairy One NIR Affiliate Network which is currently comprised of more than 30 members in 16 different countries. She is a senior member of the internal QA team and manages several NIR projects, including implementation of on-farm NIR technology.It is a poorly kept secret at Dairy One that Cassy is a "horse person".  She is an avid horse racing fan and participates in carriage driving shows. She also stays active in the agricultural community by serving as the President of the Sigma Alpha Alumni Chapter of Cornell University. She is currently taking a break from horse ownership but is always on the lookout for her next retired Standardbred. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

As the cold and snowy winter turns into a bright green spring, we all dream about turning our horses out on a picturesque landscape to graze, but should we?  Is it safe?  The fear of fat ponies, laminitis and other metabolic diseases haunt us.  Dr. Clair and Michelle discuss the importance of being proactive and cautious when transitioning from winter to spring.  In this episode we discuss: -sugar content-pasture management -grazing muzzles and so much more!  Do you have questions about feeding your new horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.comDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

When we refer to “topline,” we’re talking about the entire upper line of the horse’s body. That includes how the neck ties into the shoulder and the development of the back muscles under the saddle area, across the loin, and over the rump. When horses lack musculature over those areas, they are said to “have a poor topline.” Many things can cause poor topline, including incorrect training, an ill-fitting saddle, old age, lameness, or diseases like pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, or equine Cushing’s). If your horse is struggling to develop a nice topline despite good health (talk to you veterinarian!), proper training, and a well-fitting saddle, perhaps his or her diet needs another look.In this episode, Michelle and Dr. Clair cover: What is topline?How to support topline development through nutrition.Understanding protein quality and its role in topline development.And other factors that might affect topline.Do you have questions about feeding your new horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.comDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Getting a new horse is exciting! But, for the horse, a new owner can mean lots of change and stress. As herd animals that prefer routine, horses become stressed when moving to a new home with new horses, people, and expectations. Dietary changes during transitions can also cause stress. Combined, these changes increase a horse’s risk of serious health issues, such as gastric ulcers and colic. That’s why taking steps to reduce both dietary and other stress when getting a new horse is important.In this episode, Dr. Clair and Michelle cover:-Discussing a horse’s diet with the seller.-Safely changing feed schedules.-What to do when you’re unable to source the horse’s same hay and grain.-Turnout.-Ways to manage stress.Do you have questions about feeding your new horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.comDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Who doesn’t love a horse with a shiny haircoat and long, full mane and tail? While some horses are more genetically blessed than others in the hair growth and shine department, all healthy manes and tails and glowing coats start with a balanced diet. Grooming can help, of course, but no amount of elbow grease can correct poor nutrition.In this episode, Clair and Michelle cover:• How minerals, including copper, bring out a horse’s shine;• Why amino acids are important for growing high-quality hair;• The role of vitamins, specifically vitamin E and biotin, in coat quality; and• The dietary fats horses need to really bloom.Do you have questions about helping your horse shine this spring? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

You see a sweet old horse on the bag, and the name clearly says “senior” in it. So that’s the right feed for your aged equine, right? Not necessarily. The horse feed industry doesn’t have a standard for what makes a senior feed a senior feed. And, in fact, some products marketed as senior feeds are Dr. Clair’s favorite recommendations for horses requiring high-fat, high-fiber diets to maintain or gain weight. That’s also why Michelle gives a senior feed to a growing 2-year-old, a 7-year-old in full training, and a picky 21-year-old retiree.In this episode, we talk about:• What defines a “senior” horse.• Causes of weight loss in older horses and how senior feeds might help maintain body condition.• Why senior feeds might not be the right choice for easy-keeping horses with age-related metabolic conditions (like equine metabolic syndrome and insulin dysregulation) that cause weight gain and laminitis.• The difference between a complete feed and a concentrate.• The benefits of fat and fiber as calorie sources.• Why senior feeds might be good for horses with dental issues or prone to choke.• And more!Do you have questions about feeding seniors, or feeding senior feeds to younger horses? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Equine ration balancers are multipurpose horse feeds that pack big benefits in small portions. As the name implies, they are meant to “balance” horse diets by providing essential nutrients hay and forage might lack. Ration balancers are typically lower calorie than other concentrates but still designed to meet horses’ basic vitamin, mineral, and protein requirements, which is essential for health. This makes them an especially good option for easy keepers or a solid nutritional foundation you can build on for horses that need more energy from their feed and forage.Like a ration balancer, this episode is packed with good stuff! Dr. Clair and Michelle discuss:• The difference between a rational balancer and a basic multivitamin-and-mineral supplement.• How ration balancers can ensure your horses get the nutrition they need to support their soundness, and performance.• Why ration balancers can cut down on chore time and streamline your feed room, even if you care for horses of different ages and activity levels.• How to use ration balancers in combination with other feeds and forages.• Understanding ration balancer pricing and serving size (hint: the bag is more expensive, but you get a lot more servings!).• What vitamins, minerals, proteins, and electrolytes you might find in them.• Why they might be the right choice for easy keepers and horses with gastric ulcers, equine metabolic syndrome, insulin dysregulation, and pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction.Join us and find out if ration balancers are right for your horse.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

How and what we feed horses with equine asthma matters. Barn air quality is also  a major factor in equine respiratory health, especially during the winter months when horses spend more time inside.  Dr. Clair and Michelle talk about the importance of lower respiratory system health in performance horses and ways to support horse's with respiratory allergies and/or compromised lungs through nutrition and management. Respiratory health is a major performance in all horses, and management early in horse's lives can help them avoid complications as they age. This episode will be of particular interest to horse owners of horses with equine asthma, heaves, COPD and RAO.  Ride along as we discuss tips and tricks to managing these conditions. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

With Thanksgiving behind us we are now in the Christmas/Hanukkah/Kwanzaa Countdown. To keep you company while you slowly lose your mind, we decided to do our favorite things episode.  Michelle and Clair share a few products that bring them delight, everything from hoof picks to hay balls to saddles and masterclasses!  Whether you are buying a gift for yourself or your trainer, there is something for everyone.***We received no compensation and have no affiliation with any of the products mentioned.... they don't even  know we are talking about them yet!https://ifeednaturally.com/https://www.thehaypillow.com/https://hooftrimmersupply.com/products/heller-redhttps://coloradonaturalbalms.com/https://ultimatehoofpick.com/https://eqclusive.com/en-us/collections/haashttps://equiformancebands.com/https://www.jilliankreinbringinspired.com/https://redhorseproducts.com/shop/hoof-care/artimud/https://www.aviarsaddles.com/https://enviroequine.com/product/equine-show-ring-ready-shampoo/https://eqclusive.com/en-us/collections/haasDo you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In this episode, Clair and Michelle get more than a little nerdy about equine supplements! They are joined by Dr. Lydia Gray to talk about supplement regulations and how new products come to market.Dr. Gray spent 16 years at SmartPak, where she served as Staff Veterinarian and Medical and Research Director. She has also worked in equine welfare and rescue. She's now an independent consultant and helps equine-related organizations with things like strategic planning, product labeling, and research and development … plus she does writing and speaking … and judges and competes in dressage and combined driving. That’s all to say she’s very busy! We are thankful she took time to have this conversation with us!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Proper hay and feed storage saves money, keeps horses safe, and gives rodents one less reason to move into our barns during the cold winter months. In this episode, equine nutritionist Dr. Clair Thunes and horse owner Michelle Anderson discuss hay and feed storage strategies, health risks related to horses accidentally accessing and gorging on feed (spoiler alert, it's laminitis!), ways to keep rodents out of your bins, and how to know when feed has spoiled or "gone off."Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

In this episode internal medicine specialist Laura Javsicas, VMD, Dipl. ACVIM, of Rhinebeck Equine, in New York, joins us to discuss pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID, or more commonly “equine Cushing’s disease”). This syndrome results from an enlargement of the middle lobe of the pituitary gland, which leads to elevated levels of cortisol and other hormones. An abnormally shaggy coat is a telltale sign. Horses with PPID are also at a higher risk for laminitis. PPID is mostly identified in horses during their teen years and beyond, although onset can be earlier than we horse owners might recognize. Most researchers believe up to 30% of horses will develop the disease.  Listen as we cover:  What is an equine internal medicine specialist? What is PPID? Clinical signs and how to catch PPID early. How veterinarians test for the disease. Treatment options. Management strategies.And how an equine nutritionist can help. Thanks for riding along with us!Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Join us for a walk down the supplement aisle as we discuss what horses might—and might not—need added to their diets. It seems like there's a supplement for just about anything your horse might need. In this episode, we cover:  The difference between food supplements and health supplements;The types of supplements you might find (hoof, digestive, calming, joint, coat, calories, etc.); andWhy you might, or might not, need to add supplements to your horse's ration.Plus, Clair gives Michelle advice about transitioning her horses to a new load of hay.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

It's hot outside! As the U.S. faces extreme heat advisories across the country, ensuring your horses stay hydrated is critical to support their natural evaporative cooling systems (that's sweating). In addition to water consumption, electrolytes are an important part of the cooling equation. But knowing if your horse is getting enough, or selecting the right kind to feed, is often confusing.  In this episode, Dr. Clair Thunes explains how electrolytes work and why and when horses need them (and it's not just during hot weather and summer exercise!).  Michelle shares how Clair's advice changed how she incorporated salt into her horses’ diets.  Plus! Michelle Asks Clair for Free Advice Feed prices keep going up, and Michelle's looking to save some money. Can whole flaxseeds replace stabilized ground flax in her horses' diets? Clair weighs in.About UsClair Thunes, PhD, is an equine nutritionist, busy Pony Club mom, and a dressage and eventing enthusiast. She also owns Clarity Equine Nutrition, an independent consulting company based in Gilbert, Arizona. She works with owners and veterinarians to create diets for individual horses, ranging from retired pasture pets to Olympic athletes. Her services also include formulating feeds and supplements for companies, and there's a good chance you've scooped something she helped develop into your horse's bucket. Clair taught equine nutrition and physiology as an adjunct professor at the University of California, Davis, is a highly sought after speaker. Michelle Anderson is a lifelong horseperson  who spent more than two decades writing for and editing equine magazines and websites. In 2022, she started Cadence Marketing + Media, in Bend, Oregon, to support equine-related brands and delivery quality educational content to horse owners. Her clients include equine veterinary hospitals, trainers, boarding stables, and businesses offering professional services for the industry. Her own herd lives at home and includes an aspiring FEI dressage mare, a fiery Arabian-cross trail horse, and a retired Quarter Horse gelding Michelle bred, raised, and (her husband points out) has been feeding for the past 20-plus years. Michelle's goal is to educate owners so they can best care for the horses they love. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Have you stood in your feed store staring at shelves of bagged horse  feed and felt overwhelmed by the options?You are not alone! In this episode we cover:The differences between ration balancers, concentrates (aka performance or "life stage" feeds," complete feeds, and bagged whole grains.How to properly weigh and measure feed.The reasons you should read the manufacturer's feeding instructions and plan your horse's diet accordingly.Why not all senior feeds are the same.Considerations for metabolic horses.And more!About UsClair Thunes, PhD, is an equine nutritionist, busy Pony Club mom, and a dressage and eventing enthusiast. She also owns Clarity Equine Nutrition, an independent consulting company based in Gilbert, Arizona. She works with owners and veterinarians to create diets for individual horses, ranging from retired pasture pets to Olympic athletes. Her services also include formulating feeds and supplements for companies, and there's a good chance you've scooped something she helped develop into your horse's bucket. Clair taught equine nutrition and physiology as an adjunct professor at the University of California, Davis, is a highly sought after speaker. Michelle Anderson is a lifelong horsewoman who spent two decades writing for and editing equine magazines and websites. In 2022, she started Cadence Marketing + Media, in Bend, Oregon, to support equine-related brands and delivery quality educational content to horse owners. Her clients include equine veterinary hospitals, trainers, boarding stables, and businesses offering professional services for the industry. Her own herd lives at home and includes an aspiring FEI dressage mare, a fiery Arabian-cross trail horse, and a retired Quarter Horse gelding Michelle bred, raised, and (her husband points out) has been feeding for the past 20-plus years. Michelle's goal is to educate owners so they can best care for the horses they love. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Hay, equine nutrition gets complicated quicky! So, to keep things simple, we're taking a step back and covering the basics. In this episode, we discuss why forage is the most important part of a horse's diet. Forage comes in several forms. Most commonly, horses consume forage as baled hay or grass pastures. But beet pulp, alfalfa pellets, hay cubes, and even some complete bagged feeds count as forage.Join our conversation to:Find out how much forage a horse should eat each day;Learn how many times a day horses should get hay servings; Get tips for feeding horses who can no longer chew hay;And more!About UsClair Thunes, PhD, is an equine nutritionist, busy Pony Club mom, and a dressage and eventing enthusiast. She also owns Clarity Equine Nutrition, an independent consulting company based in Gilbert, Arizona. She works with owners and veterinarians to create diets for individual horses, ranging from retired pasture pets to Olympic athletes. Her services also include formulating feeds and supplements for companies, and there's a good chance you've scooped something she helped develop into your horse's bucket. Clair taught equine nutrition and physiology as an adjunct professor at the University of California, Davis, is a highly sought after speaker. Michelle Anderson is a lifelong horseperson who spent two decades writing for and editing equine magazines and websites. In 2022, she started Cadence Marketing + Media, in Bend, Oregon, to support equine-related brands and delivery quality educational content to horse owners. Her clients include equine veterinary hospitals, trainers, boarding stables, and businesses offering professional services for the industry. Her own herd lives at home and includes an aspiring FEI dressage mare, a fiery Arabian-cross trail horse, and a retired Quarter Horse gelding Michelle bred, raised, and (her husband points out) has been feeding for the past 20-plus years. Michelle's goal is to educate owners so they can best care for the horses they love. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

It's Kentucky Derby time and the beginning of Triple Crown season, a five-week stretch when horse-related searches online surge and the general public's interest in horses peaks. In honor of the horses, we took this episode as an opportunity to talk about feeding Thoroughbreds as they transition from life on the track to their second careers and beyond.You'll learn about: How racehorses are fed and how that might differ from other horses.Why horses newly off the track still need a lot more calories than you might imagine.Why people in general consider Thoroughbreds "hard keepers" when it comes to feeding them.Getting off-track Thoroughbreds (OTTB) to eat forage-first diets.And the role gut health plays in the OTTB diet.About UsClair Thunes, PhD, is an equine nutritionist, busy Pony Club mom, and a dressage and eventing enthusiast. She also owns Clarity Equine Nutrition, an independent consulting company based in Gilbert, Arizona. She works with owners and veterinarians to create diets for individual horses, ranging from retired pasture pets to Olympic athletes. Her services also include formulating feeds and supplements for companies, and there's a good chance you've scooped something she helped develop into your horse's bucket. Clair taught equine nutrition and physiology as an adjunct professor at the University of California, Davis, is a highly sought after speaker. Michelle Anderson is a lifelong horsewoman who spent two decades writing for and editing equine magazines and websites. In 2022, she started Cadence Marketing + Media, in Bend, Oregon, to support equine-related brands and delivery quality educational content to horse owners. Her clients include equine veterinary hospitals, trainers, boarding stables, and businesses offering professional services for the industry. Her own herd lives at home and includes an aspiring FEI dressage mare, a fiery Arabian-cross trail horse, and a retired Quarter Horse gelding Michelle bred, raised, and (her husband points out) has been feeding for the past 20-plus years. Michelle's goal is to educate owners so they can best care for the horses they love. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Vitamin E has become one of the most talked-about nutrients in horse nutrition and for good reason. This powerful antioxidant plays a key role in muscle health, immune function, and the nervous system. While fresh grass is a natural source, many horses don’t get enough year-round, especially those without consistent pasture access.In this episode, Clair and Michelle break down everything you need to know about Vitamin E for horses, including:The different forms of Vitamin E and which are most bioavailableSigns your horse might be deficientDiseases and conditions linked to low Vitamin ETesting and supplementation strategies that workIf you’ve ever wondered whether your horse could benefit from extra Vitamin E, this episode is for you.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!

Alfalfa is one of the most debated feeds in the horse world. Some swear by it for weight gain and performance, while others worry it’s “too hot” or risky for certain horses. So what’s the truth about feeding alfalfa to horses?In this first episode of Scoop and Scale, we break down everything you need to know about alfalfa in the equine diet, including:The nutritional benefits of alfalfa for horsesWhich horses thrive on it (and which may not)Common myths and misconceptions about alfalfaHow to safely introduce and balance alfalfa in a feeding programWhether you’re caring for a senior horse, a hard keeper, or a performance athlete, this episode will help you decide if alfalfa is the right choice for your horse’s nutrition.Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at info@scoopandscale.com Thanks for riding along with us!