What is Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy Polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) is a chronic muscular condition that results in an abnormal accumulation of glycogen (sugar) in the muscles. This can cause episodes of muscle stiffness and pain after exercise, also known as “tying up.” It is seen in a number of breeds and the clinical signs may[…]
How to Choose the Right Electrolytes for Your Horse?
Just like humans, horses require electrolytes to maintain proper bodily functions. Performance in horses often needs that extra boost with fluids and essential electrolytes. During physical activity, your horse can lose up to 10-15 L of sweat every hour. Electrolytes play a critical role in their body, supporting muscle contraction, nerve signaling, and fluid balance.[…]
What Is a Sound Horse? Understanding Horse Soundness, Health, & Care
When we talk about a sound horse, we're referring to one free from lameness, injuries, or health conditions that might hold it back. It's not just about the absence of problems—it's about overall fitness and the ability to perform tasks without pain or risk. Soundness reflects a complete picture of a horse's health, strength, and[…]
Does Your Horse Need Bone Support?
Just like in humans, a horse's skeletal system is essential for their overall health, impacting movement, performance, and quality of life. Understanding when and why bone support might be necessary can help ensure your horse’s longevity and soundness for years to come. Why Bone Health Matters Healthy bones are essential for a horse’s overall well-being.[…]
How to Keep Your Horse's Lungs Healthy: Practical Tips
The lungs of a horse play a crucial role in ensuring optimal oxygen delivery, which fuels muscle function and energy production. Like human athletes, maintaining the horse's respiratory system is vital to their overall well-being and peak performance. However, horses are vulnerable to various respiratory issues, including allergies and inflammation. Without proper care, these problems[…]
Do Horses Need Vitamin D Supplements in Summer?
TL;DR Horses may need vitamin D supplements in summer despite long hours of sunlight since they produce little to no vitamin D3 in their skin. Signs of deficiency include weak bones, muscle weakness, stiff joints, slow wound healing, behavioral changes, and impaired immunity. Stabled horses, young/growing horses, and those in northern regions are most at[…]
Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome: Guide For Keeping Your Horses Healthy
Is your horse is experiencing weight loss, a lackluster coat, decreased appetite, or showing signs of irritability? These could be signs that your horse is experiencing stomach pain, usually due to gastric ulcers. Gastric ulcers in horses, also known as Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS), happen when sores develop in the soft tissue lining of[…]
Do Calming Supplements Work for Horses?
Horses are brilliant and sensitive animals that can experience stress from even small changes in their daily routine. This stress can lead to anxious or aggressive behaviors, which is a normal physiological response to many situations. Addressing and managing this stress is crucial for the well-being of the horses and those handling it. Calming supplements[…]
14 Early Warning Signs of Laminitis in Horses
Laminitis is a painful condition in horses that can develop gradually over time. It occurs when the laminae—the sensitive inner structures of the hoof become inflamed and start to separate from the hoof wall. This leads to changes like laminitis rings on the hoof. This inflammation can cause discomfort, lameness, and, in severe cases, permanent[…]
