As spring approaches, it is time to start thinking about parasite management. Parasites are a complicated topic that often gets oversimplified when searching for information. A holistic approach always considers the intestinal immunity of each horse, as that varies from horse to horse. However, parasite management tends to become more complex in herd environments where group dynamics play a role. The Impact of Parasites on Horse Health Parasites can have widespread effects on a horse’s body. They contribute to inflammation, disrupt the nervous system, and place stress on multiple organs. Horses with allergies are particularly susceptible because their immune systems are overactive, making it harder to manage infections. If a calm horse suddenly becomes anxious or unmanageable, parasites could be a hidden factor. Parasites and Ulcers When horses struggle with digestive issues, an unresolved parasite infection can complicate their recovery. So, it is essential to address parasites first, as parasites, especially encysted strongyles, damage the intestinal lining, which could exacerbate or trigger ulcers. The Importance of Early and Proper Treatment Promptly addressing parasites is essential for preventing long-term health damage to your horse. Horses with allergies or ulcers are particularly vulnerable, as parasites tend to exacerbate their symptoms. Parasite treatments should be specific to the condition of each horse. It is also essential to consider the possible effects of parasite die-off with older or weaker horses, and veterinary guidance may be needed. The Effectiveness of Herbal Treatments While herbs have some anti-parasitic properties, they cannot be relied on to eliminate a significant infestation, as fecal testing has shown that herbal remedies alone do not effectively reduce parasite counts. Chemical dewormers are the most effective option for controlling parasites, especially in high-load cases. Managing Parasite Resistance Overuse and improper use of dewormers can cause parasite resistance, making it harder to eliminate infections. Even when treated, some horses still carry high parasite loads, and parasites can mutate to withstand certain chemicals. Rotating dewormers and strategically targeting different life stages of parasites are essential strategies for long-term parasite management. Key Takeaways for Responsible Parasite Control A strategic, science-based approach to parasite management is crucial. Regular fecal egg counts can help track parasite levels, and a well-planned deworming schedule prevents resistance from developing. Supporting the microbiome with good nutrition will also help in building overall resilience against infections. Links and resources: Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars. Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now . Mentioned in this episode: Learn the 4 Steps to Resolving Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Sign up for the FREE masterclass today! Masterclass
1 apr 2025 - 32 min 41 seg
One of the most common mistakes horse owners tend to make is opting for supplements before evaluating their horse’s diet. Today, we are taking a closer look at supplements and whether or not they are necessary for horse health. Diet First, Supplements Second No supplement will fully correct the underlying issue if a horse is fed an unbalanced diet. Nutritional deficiencies, toxicities, and stress often occur due to poor feeding practices. So, horse owners should consider the diet before adding supplements for their horses, and get a hay analysis to uncover any nutritional gaps, as metabolic issues or insulin resistance often improve after simply adjusting the diet. A Holistic Approach to Supplementing Horses do not have the same diverse foraging options of the wild in domestic settings. So, supplements may be necessary in many cases. Nutritional therapy, using targeted nutrients to support healing and prevent diseases, can be a powerful tool for overcoming many equine health issues. Choose High-Quality, Bioavailable Supplements Many supplements contain cheap fillers, poorly absorbed forms of minerals, or ingredients that may even exacerbate any existing health issues. It is essential to select supplements with bioavailable ingredients that the horses can effectively utilize. Source only high-quality products with minimal additives for maximum effectiveness. Hair tissue mineral analysis can also offer valuable insights into deficiencies and imbalances that standard blood work may not detect. Avoid Over-Supplementation Many horse owners fall into the trap of adding multiple supplements without a clear strategy. Over-supplementation can create imbalances, cause nutrient competition, and lead to unnecessary expenses. A well-planned supplement regimen should be based on the needs of each horse to ensure that every ingredient complements rather than conflicts with their overall nutritional plan. Conclusion Supplements can be beneficial but are not always the solution for horse health issues. A well-balanced diet should always come first. Supplements should be targeted tools for correcting deficiencies and supporting recovery. By selecting high-quality, bioavailable ingredients and avoiding unnecessary additives, horse owners can maximize the benefits of supplementation and ensure their horses receive optimal nutrition. Links and resources: Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars. Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now . Mentioned in this episode: Learn the 4 Steps to Resolving Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Sign up for the FREE masterclass today! Masterclass
25 mar 2025 - 20 min 30 seg
Today, we are bringing you a rerun of Episode 16. This episode explores alfalfa, a highly nutritious feed that often leaves horse owners uncertain due to the many conflicting opinions on its proper use and ideal feeding amounts. Join us as we tackle the ins and outs of incorporating alfalfa into your horse's diet and debunk some of the common misconceptions surrounding it. Diverse Uses of Alfalfa Horse owners can use alfalfa for many different purposes. Some use it to provide extra calories during the winter, while others use it to help their horses gain weight. Some owners like to use alfalfa as a source of energy to enhance a horse’s performance and contribute to muscle building. Others claim that using alfalfa prevents issues like chronic diarrhea and fecal water syndrome in their horses. The Equine Microbiome Horses get their energy from fermenting fiber. Alfalfa may help with issues like chronic diarrhea or fecal water syndrome because it impacts the tiny organisms in the microbial populations of the hindgut. I spoke about the equine microbiome in Episode 10, so you can go back and listen to that episode to refresh your memory if you need to. Toxicity Issues Diets high in alfalfa can lead to potential feed toxicity issues, like leaky gut, due to the shift in microbial populations and increased body acidity caused by those diets. You need to know the horse's history and monitor the amount and duration of alfalfa feeding to avoid complications. Understanding Alfalfa as a Forage Contrary to common belief, alfalfa is a legume and is not part of the grass family, a difference that impacts its macronutrient composition. With a protein content ranging from 14 percent to 25 percent, alfalfa can be a valuable supplement for horses. It does contain a high lignin content, making it less digestible and less efficient than grass as an energy source. Alfalfa as a Protein Supplement Despite its limitations as an energy source, alfalfa shines as a protein supplement for horses. Horses with protein deficiencies or higher protein requirements, such as young horses, rescue horses, or seniors, can benefit from alfalfa supplementation. For older horses with slower metabolic rates, alfalfa can be particularly helpful in meeting their nutritional needs. In Conclusion While alfalfa may have some limitations and not necessarily work as a replacement for grass, it can still be a valuable supplement for horses as it contains essential nutrients, like protein in particular. By learning about the role of alfalfa and understanding its benefits, horse owners can make informed decisions on incorporating alfalfa effectively into the diets of their equine companions. Links and resources: Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars. Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now . Mentioned in this episode: Learn the 4 Steps to Resolving Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Sign up for the FREE masterclass today! Masterclass
18 mar 2025 - 20 min 21 seg
The adrenal glands play a crucial role in keeping horses healthy and resilient. My recent hands-on experience with horse dissections highlighted the importance of the adrenal glands for metabolism, hormone regulation, and stress response in horses. When horse owners learn how the adrenal glands work and how chronic stress affects them, they can become far more effective in supporting the health and well-being of their horses. The Role of the Adrenal Glands The adrenal glands produce cortisol, ACTH, and DHEA, which regulate energy, influence immune function, and affect the overall hormone balance in horses. Horses are prey animals, so they tend to be on high alert. That means their adrenal glands are often working overtime. When a horse is under constant stress from its environment, emotions, or physical strain, it can lead to adrenal fatigue, affecting everything from metabolism to immune function. Hormonal Imbalances and Their Effects Horses with metabolic issues like PPID or insulin resistance often have adrenal dysfunction. High cortisol levels can lead to tissue breakdown, slow healing, and weaken the immune system. The adrenals also play a role in sex hormone production, as DHEA influences testosterone and estrogen levels. So adrenal health can affect everything, including the reproductive cycle of mares and the hormone balance of geldings. Understanding those connections helps horse owners make better health decisions. The Impact of Chronic Inflammation and Stress Many horses deal with low-grade inflammation from environmental toxins, poor diet, or chronic illness. With those issues, the adrenal glands keep pumping out cortisol, which, over time, can wear them out. When adrenal function drops, the pituitary gland produces more ACTH, which can contribute to metabolic disorders. To manage that, owners must reduce external stressors, like inadequate stable conditions and poor handling techniques, and internal stressors, such as diet and gut health. Nutritional and Holistic Support Supporting adrenal health in horses requires a combination of proper nutrition, stress reduction, and careful hormone management. Horses naturally produce vitamin C, but in times of stress, they may require supplementation. Other vital nutrients include minerals that help regulate adrenal function. Maintaining a balanced diet that promotes gut health can also reduce overall stress on the body, and providing horses with an environment that meets their instinctual needs for freedom, forage, and friendship is vital for reducing chronic stress. Recognizing the Signs and Taking Action As research into equine adrenal health progresses, more vets and equine professionals recognize the signs of adrenal insufficiency. Symptoms like persistent fatigue, poor coat quality, muscle wasting, and metabolic imbalances can indicate underlying adrenal stress. By taking a proactive approach to adrenal support through dietary improvements, environmental enrichment, and holistic care, owners can help prevent long-term health complications in their horses. Links and resources: Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars. Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic...
11 mar 2025 - 19 min 48 seg
Dedicated owners want the best for their equine companions. However, understanding what is going on with a horse’s health can sometimes be puzzling. Creating a health profile for horses is a simple yet powerful tool to give owners deeper insight into the overall well-being of their horses. Writing their health history down on paper helps owners understand what is and is not working and how their diet, stress, or past issues might influence their condition, making it easier to fine-tune their care. Having a clear record also allows owners to spot trends over time, helping them make more informed health decisions for their horses. What to Include in a Health Profile Begin by documenting all major health events, including illnesses, injuries, emotional upheavals, and changes in diet or living conditions. Dates and ages matter as events like a severe infection or a drastic diet shift could have long-lasting effects. It is also important to note any lifestyle changes, like moving to a new barn or losing a companion, as those could impact the horse's physical and emotional health. Identifying Root Causes of Health Issues When assessing health problems, I focus on three primary causes: toxicity, stress, and nutrient deficiencies. By categorizing past and current health issues within those areas, you can start to see trends. Tracking those factors helps you understand the root cause of ongoing health struggles and make targeted changes. Creating a Healing Strategy After compiling their health history, the next step is identifying key themes. I use a healing layer approach, categorizing issues by organ systems like digestive health, immune function, hormonal balance, etc. If, for example, a horse repeatedly struggles with skin conditions, we may need to focus on immune support and detoxification rather than just treating surface symptoms. This method helps ensure that interventions are specific, effective, and sustainable. Fine-Tuning Diet and Supplements With a well-documented health profile, you can make smarter choices about nutrition and supplementation. Instead of throwing every possible remedy at the problem, you can tailor your approach based on your horse's needs. Some horses thrive with diet adjustments alone, while others require targeted supplementation or homeopathic remedies. The goal is to avoid wasting time, money, and energy on unnecessary treatments and focus instead on what will benefit your horse. Links and resources: Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars. Register for Healing Horses their Way 2025, now.
25 feb 2025 - 19 min 52 seg
We are officially opening enrollment for my signature program, Healing Horses Their Way 2025 , which I was proud to launch in 2018! Every year, from late November to early December, we roll up our sleeves, set the dates, map out the plan, and fine-tune the details for the year ahead. Join me today for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how we structure the program, what you will learn, the rollout date, and all the incredible benefits you can expect! Overview of the Program This signature program has been a favorite among horse owners and practitioners since it launched in 2018. It has been designed to give you a strong foundation in holistic horse care and is packed with practical, easy-to-understand information to help you make the best choices for a healthy and happy horse. Updated in 2020 with even more resources, it is a hands-on, flexible learning experience perfect for horse lovers at any level. A Supportive Global Community Caring for horses can feel like a solo adventure sometimes, especially if you live in a remote area. This course connects you with a worldwide community of like-minded people who share your passion. You will swap stories, share insights, and learn how horse care challenges are surprisingly universal, no matter where you are. How the Course Works The course spans 12 weeks and includes nine in-depth modules with a few pause weeks to allow you to work through the material at your own pace. Each module builds on the last, with practical exercises you can apply to any horse. A Holistic Mindset The course starts by helping you view horse health from a new perspective. You will learn to look at the history of a horse, spot patterns, and connect the dots between symptoms and underlying issues. It is a whole-horse approach that considers mental, physical, emotional, and even spiritual health, giving you a deep understanding of how the equine body works and reacts to care. Practical Horse Care In modules two and three, we dive into the fundamental aspects of anatomy, physiology, and diet. You will learn how to use food as medicine, tailoring the diet to address imbalances, intolerances, or allergies. By the end, you will know how to customize a feeding plan to meet the unique requirements of your horse. Advanced Tools for Health We also explore therapeutic nutrition, herbs, and homeopathy. You will learn to use vitamins, minerals, and natural remedies to tackle specific health challenges. These modules are all broken down into simple and easy-to-apply, actionable steps. Tackling Common Problems In the later modules, we get into the nitty-gritty of hoof health, toxins, and parasites. You will learn how to spot common hoof issues, like thrush or long toes, and how to address them naturally. You will also learn strategies to minimize exposure to toxins and manage parasites in ways that keep your horse feeling their best. Real-Life Solutions One of the highlights of this course is the final module, which has natural protocols for over 30 specific health issues. When you reach this point, you will have all the tools you need to create a personalized care program for your horse. You will also know how to track your horse's progress and adjust when necessary. Flexible and Easy to Follow The course is structured to fit into your busy life. The materials are released weekly, and there are live classes every Tuesday evening (with recordings if you cannot make it). There is also a private Facebook group where you can get extra support and connect with other participants, and quizzes you can complete along the way, and you will earn a certificate at the end. Ready to Join? Registration...
18 feb 2025 - 23 min 50 seg
Boarding horses can be a solution for owners who do not have enough space or time for full-time care. However, owners often struggle with losing control over aspects like feeding, turnout, and herd dynamics. Finding a balance between the horse’s needs and how the boarding facility gets run can be difficult, but with the right approach, owners can set things up to work for themselves, the facility, and their horses. Choosing the Best Available Option In areas where boarding facilities are limited, owners may have to go with the best available option rather than finding an ideal one. In those situations, owners should prioritize the key needs of their horse and aim for a setup that allows them to feel confident the horse is well cared for when they are not there. Forage, Freedom, and Friendship A horse’s welfare depends on access to forage, freedom of movement, and social interaction. A boarding facility that does not provide frequent forage feedings can contribute to stress, ulcers, and digestive issues. Stall Time and Isolation Extended stall confinement can lead to stress and behavioral issues, as horses need to move, graze, and socialize. When those needs go unmet, frustration builds. Solutions like increased turnout and exercise can help alleviate that stress and prevent any dangerous situations from arising. Finding Harmony for You and Your Horse Creating a balanced environment for horses is crucial, as they are sensitive to the energies around them. So, owners must be patient and adopt a positive mindset when looking for the right boarding facility. The Emotional Impact of Boarding Conflicts Tension often arises between horse owners and boarding facility management. Owners want the best for their horses and may feel frustrated if their needs are not fully met, and boarding facilities have to consider their costs and the availability of their staff while treating all boarders fairly. Even though both perspectives are valid, unresolved frustration may lead to ongoing conflict. How Stress Affects Horses Horses are highly attuned to human emotions, and if their owner carries stress, tension, or frustration, they feel it too. Subtle physical signs like tight shoulders, restricted movement, or tension in their owners can influence how a horse perceives its surroundings, and a stressful environment can negatively impact its ability to heal and thrive. Managing Conflict and Communication Clear communication is the key to reducing frustration. Owners should express their horse’s needs openly while also understanding the limitations of the facility. Likewise, boarding facilities should be upfront about what they can and cannot provide. Honest communication can prevent misunderstandings and foster a far more cooperative atmosphere. Creating a Low-Stress Environment for Horses In less-than-ideal boarding situations, small changes can improve a horse’s well-being. Options like increased turnout, alternative hay choices, or adjusted pen arrangements can make a significant difference. The goal is to create a minimally stressful environment that allows the horse to feel safe and supported. Taking Responsibility and Choosing Battles Wisely Owners who board their horses must take responsibility for the needs of the horse while recognizing that perfection is not always possible. Instead of getting stuck in frustration, they should focus on making the most impactful changes they can. Whether it is improving socialization opportunities, reducing stall time, or ensuring better food access, those small adjustments can go a long way in enhancing the quality of life of a horse. The Bigger Picture: Patience and Adaptation No...
4 feb 2025 - 26 min 30 seg
Horse owners often want to know if their efforts to heal their horses are making a difference, especially after long periods of frustration and uncertainty. In those situations, owners should look for some signs of improvement without becoming overly fixated on a single symptom. Learning about the holistic healing processes of the body will also be helpful, as recovery seldom follows a predictable path. The Importance of Energy Levels One of the earliest indicators of recovery in horses is improved energy levels. Horses suffering from chronic health issues often exhibit fatigue and depression. As their energy levels increase, they may become more playful and engaged, with brighter eyes and a renewed sense of vitality- usually the result of better nutrition, toxin removal, or reduced stress levels. Subsiding Inflammation Subsiding inflammation is another sign of recovery, though it can be challenging to measure. Visible changes, like reduced swelling or improved mobility, are evidence of progress. Even when blood work appears normal, the improved ability of the horse to move and interact shows that their inflammation is declining. Tangible Changes in Physical Appearance As healing progresses, changes become apparent in the condition of the horse. A healthier coat with improved luster, smoother shedding patterns, and softer texture are signs of better nutrition and detoxification. Improvements in hoof quality can also be a reliable indicator of reduced inflammation and better overall health. Patience and Perspective in the Healing Process Recovery is seldom linear, so horse owners should adopt a balanced perspective, acknowledging and celebrating incremental improvements rather than expecting immediate results. By focusing on energy, inflammation, and physical changes in their horses, owners can gain a far better understanding of their healing process, which will help them maintain more realistic expectations. Links and resources: Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars. Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally Register for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now .
28 gen 2025 - 22 min 41 seg
We are working hard, gearing up to launch my signature program, Healing Horses Their Way 2025 . From late November to early December, we start rolling up our sleeves, setting the dates, mapping out the plan, and fine-tuning what will be in store for the coming year. Today, I take you behind the scenes to explain how we structure the program, what you will learn, the rollout date, and the benefits you stand to achieve. Join us this week to learn more about the signature program I proudly launched in 2018. Overview of the Program This signature program has been a favorite among horse owners and practitioners since it launched in 2018. It has been designed to give you a strong foundation in holistic horse care and is packed with practical, easy-to-understand information to help you make the best choices for a healthy and happy horse. Updated in 2020 with even more resources, it is a hands-on, flexible learning experience perfect for horse lovers at any level. A Supportive Global Community Caring for horses can feel like a solo adventure sometimes, especially if you live in a remote area. This course connects you with a worldwide community of like-minded people who share your passion. You will swap stories, share insights, and learn how horse care challenges are surprisingly universal, no matter where you are. How the Course Works The course spans 12 weeks and includes nine in-depth modules with a few pause weeks to allow you to work through the material at your own pace. Each module builds on the last, with practical exercises you can apply to any horse. A Holistic Mindset The course starts by helping you view horse health from a new perspective. You will learn to look at the history of a horse, spot patterns, and connect the dots between symptoms and underlying issues. It is a whole-horse approach that considers mental, physical, emotional, and even spiritual health, giving you a deep understanding of how the equine body works and reacts to care. Practical Horse Care In modules two and three, we dive into the fundamental aspects of anatomy, physiology, and diet. You will learn how to use food as medicine, tailoring the diet to address imbalances, intolerances, or allergies. By the end, you will know how to customize a feeding plan to meet the unique requirements of your horse. Advanced Tools for Health We also explore therapeutic nutrition, herbs, and homeopathy. You will learn to use vitamins, minerals, and natural remedies to tackle specific health challenges. These modules are all broken down into simple and easy-to-apply, actionable steps. Tackling Common Problems In the later modules, we get into the nitty-gritty of hoof health, toxins, and parasites. You will learn how to spot common hoof issues, like thrush or long toes, and how to address them naturally. You will also learn strategies to minimize exposure to toxins and manage parasites in ways that keep your horse feeling their best. Real-Life Solutions One of the highlights of this course is the final module, which has natural protocols for over 30 specific health issues. When you reach this point, you will have all the tools you need to create a personalized care program for your horse. You will also know how to track your horse's progress and adjust when necessary. Flexible and Easy to Follow The course is structured to fit into your busy life. The materials are released weekly, and there are live classes every Tuesday evening (with recordings if you cannot make it). There is also a private Facebook group where you can get extra support and connect with other participants, and quizzes you can complete along the way, and you will earn a certificate at the end. Ready to...
3 dic 2024 - 23 min 50 seg
Today, we cover three foods to avoid for better horse health. This topic ties into our last discussion, where we explored toxicity in horses and how accumulated toxins can build up over time and lead to serious health issues. Sources of Toxicity in Horses Horses get exposed to various sources of toxicity, mainly through chemicals and preservatives in their food and water, medications, vaccinations, and deworming agents. Over time, the toxins build up and can overwhelm the immune system, leading to chronic health issues like inflammation, allergies, and sensitivities. Addressing the diet and removing toxic elements is often the first step toward recovery when horses are unwell. Corn Corn has high-calorie content and energy density, making it a common ingredient in horse feed. However, corn lowers digestive pH, leading to leaky gut and immune issues. It is also high in starch, which can overwhelm the small intestine if fed in excess, as the undigested starch can reach the hindgut, where it ferments, potentially causing acidosis, colic, or laminitis. Its low fiber content and imbalance of protein and amino acids make it less suitable as a standalone feed. There is also a risk of mold contamination when corn is improperly stored. While corn can be an energy boost for horses with high caloric needs, it is best to use it sparingly. Wheat Middlings Wheat middlings, a byproduct of milling wheat for flour, are often used as a source of fiber and protein in horse feed. They can be high in phosphorus and low in calcium, creating an imbalance that can affect bone health in horses if consumed in excess. Wheat middlings can also ferment in the hindgut, leading to digestive upsets like colic or laminitis. High levels of non-structural carbohydrates in wheat middlings can also be problematic for horses prone to metabolic issues like insulin resistance or equine metabolic syndrome. While middlings can be part of a balanced diet, feed them in moderation and combine them with other sources of fiber and essential nutrients. Processed Oils Canola, soybean, corn, or hydrogenated oils are not ideal for horses as they undergo high-temperature processing that generates free radicals, harming the immune system and leading to various diseases. Soybean oil can also create hormonal imbalances due to its phytoestrogen content. It is essential to choose cold-pressed, high-quality oils and only add them to the diet when necessary. High-Fat Diets High-fat diets can provide energy for horses doing heavy work or needing to gain weight, as fats are calorie-dense and provide slow-burning energy without the risks associated with high-starch feeds. However, horses lack a gallbladder and are biologically unsuited to process large quantities of oils. So, high-fat diets can cause digestive issues, malnutrition, and liver strain, slowing gut motility and worsening conditions like colic or ulcers. Balancing Nutrition While some challenging cases, like underweight or elderly horses, may require short-term use of problematic foods or oils, the goal should always be to provide high-quality, minimally processed nutrition in the long term. Horses thrive on a natural diet that aligns with their biology. For optimum health and resilience in your horse, pay attention to sensitivities and make adjustments where necessary. Final Thoughts Avoid ingredients like corn, wheat middlings, and processed oils. Focus on natural, high-quality feeds, and tailor the feeding strategy to fit the specific dietary requirements of your horse and support its long-term health and vitality. Links and resources: Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join...
26 nov 2024 - 23 min 41 seg