Advertise on podcast: Scoop & Scale: An Equine Podcast (Mostly) About Nutrition

Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is a common concern for horse owners, but not all gastric ulcers are the same. In this episode of Scoop & Scale, we’re joined by Dr. Ben Sykes, an equine internal medicine specialist and leading researcher on equine gastric ulcer disease. Together we discuss squamous gastric disease, glandular gastric disease, and the confusion surrounding so-called hindgut ulcers in horses. We explore how these conditions differ, how veterinarians diagnose and treat gastric ulcers, and why some horses struggle to heal despite treatment. We also discuss current research on ulcer medications, nutrition, stress, management, and equine welfare, including practical steps owners can take to support digestive health and reduce ulcer risk. In this episode, we discuss: Equine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS), including the differences between squamous and glandular ulcersCommon signs of digestive discomfort, and why accurate diagnosis mattersGastric ulcer diagnosis and treatment, including gastroscopy, omeprazole, sucralfate, misoprostol, and newer treatment optionsRisk factors for gastric ulcers, including stress, exercise, nutrition, and daily management, plus why some ulcers are harder to treat than othersPractical strategies for ulcer prevention and recovery, including management changes, equine welfare, supporting digestive health, and so much moreWhether your horse has been diagnosed with EGUS, has recurring gastric ulcers, is not responding to treatment, or is showing signs of digestive discomfort, this episode offers an evidence-based discussion of equine gastric ulcer diagnosis, treatment, nutrition, and management. Dr. Ben Sykes is an equine internal medicine specialist and internationally recognized researcher in equine gastric ulcer syndrome. He was the lead author of the 2015 European College of Equine Internal Medicine (ECEIM) consensus statement on equine gastric ulcer syndrome, which helped establish the distinction between squamous and glandular gastric disease. This episode is brought to you by Boehringer Ingelheim, makers of GASTROGARD® (omeprazole) oral paste. https://horseowner.boehringer-ingelheim.com/us/products/gastrogard  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

In Part 2 of our conversation on laminitis, we continue our discussion with Dr. François-René Bertin, DVM, MS, FHEA, PhD, DACVIM (LAIM), a Professor and Director of the Nancy Fair Link Laminitis Research Centre at Mississippi State University, focusing on what horse owners can actually do to manage horses at risk of, or actively dealing with, laminitis. We talk about diet, insulin dysregulation, supplements, medications, and hoof care, including some of the areas where there is still plenty of debate and confusion. In this episode, we discuss: • How diet and NSC fit into managing insulin dysregulation and laminitis • Supplements and medications that may or may not have a role • Managing pain and inflammation during an active laminitis episode • Hoof care, therapeutic support, and getting your veterinary and hoof-care team on the same page • Prognosis, recovery, and what to do when you suspect laminitis If you haven't listened to Part 1, we recommend starting there. We discussed what causes laminitis, the role of hyperinsulinemia, identifying horses at risk, and testing before turning to the practical side of management in this episode. Learn more about Dr. Bertin and his research HERE  Scoop & Scale is proudly sponsored by GG Equine. We’re excited to partner with GG Equine, makers of thoughtful slow-feed systems trusted by horse owners, veterinarians, and professionals. Go graze! Scoop & Scale listeners receive 15% off GreenGuard muzzles with code SCOOPSCALE15 Shop GreenGuard & save 15%   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Listen to our discussion as we go over Jill's horse's PPID and insulin results. In this short conversation, We sit down to go through Jill’s horse’s actual bloodwork and talk about what the results mean, what they can and can’t tell us, and how they fit into his overall management.  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Laminitis is one of the most serious and misunderstood conditions affecting horses. But what actually happens inside the hoof when a horse develops laminitis? Our guest for this two-part series is Dr. François-René Bertin, DVM, MS, FHEA, PhD, DACVIM (LAIM), a Professor and Director of the Nancy Fair Link Laminitis Research Centre at Mississippi State University. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we take a closer look at what laminitis is, which structures of the hoof are involved, what happens when those structures become damaged, and why laminitis can be so devastating to the horse. We also explore the causes of laminitis in horses and the different pathways that can trigger the disease. From metabolic dysregulation to systemic illness, when it comes to treatment and prevention, understanding the underlying cause matters. You'll learn: • What laminitis actually is and what happens inside the hoof  • The hoof structures involved, including the laminae and coffin bone  • How damage to these structures can affect the hoof  • The common causes and pathways that can lead to laminitis  • Why identifying the underlying cause matters for treatment and prevention If you've ever wondered what laminitis really is, what is happening inside the hoof, or why a horse develops it in the first place, this episode will give you the foundation you need to better understand this complicated disease. Learn more about Dr. Bertin and his research HERE  Scoop & Scale is proudly sponsored by GG Equine. We’re excited to partner with GG Equine, makers of thoughtful slow-feed systems trusted by horse owners, veterinarians, and professionals. Go graze! Scoop & Scale listeners receive 15% off GreenGuard muzzles with code SCOOPSCALE15 Shop GreenGuard & save 15%   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

If you have an older horse, you’ve probably heard of Cushing’s disease, but how much has changed in what we know about diagnosing and managing it? In this episode, we take a closer look at pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction (PPID), the condition commonly called Cushing’s in horses, and explore why fall is an especially important time to think about testing. We discuss: • The early signs of PPID that are easy to mistake for normal aging • Why the seasonal rise in ACTH makes fall an important testing window • How ACTH testing and TRH stimulation testing differ, and how results are interpreted • Why insulin status matters alongside a PPID diagnosis, especially when it comes to laminitis risk and nutrition • Current approaches to treatment, monitoring, and feeding the PPID horse If you have a senior horse, suspect PPID, or already have a horse diagnosed with Cushing’s, this episode offers an updated look at what horse owners should know about recognizing, testing, and managing this common endocrine disorder.  Scoop & Scale is proudly sponsored by GG Equine. We’re excited to partner with GG Equine, makers of thoughtful slow-feed systems trusted by horse owners, veterinarians, and professionals. Go graze! Scoop & Scale listeners receive 15% off GreenGuard muzzles with code SCOOPSCALE15 Shop GreenGuard & save 15%   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

What are amino acids, why do they matter, and does your horse actually need an amino acid supplement? In this episode we break down the science behind amino acids, protein quality, muscle development, and the many claims surrounding equine amino acid supplements. You’ll learn: The difference between essential and non-essential amino acidsWhat a limiting amino acid is and why lysine, methionine, and threonine are importantWhy amino acids matter for muscle, hooves, hair, and moreHow to evaluate amino acid supplements and what meaningful doses actually look likeWhat BCAAs and leucine can really do for muscleHow much we actually know about amino acid requirements in horses, and more!If you've ever wondered whether your horse needs more protein, an amino acid supplement, or a product marketed for topline and muscle development, this episode will help you understand what the research supports and what may be more marketing than science.  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

How much salt does your horse really need? Are salt blocks enough? When should you feed electrolytes and do you actually need them if you're already feeding salt? In this episode we answer your biggest questions about horse salt, electrolytes, and hydration, separating fact from fiction with practical, research-backed advice. In this episode we explore: How much salt your horse actually needsSalt blocks vs. loose salt vs. electrolytes and which to use whenDifferent types of loose salt and which are bestWhether salt and electrolytes cause gastric ulcers?...and more!Whether your horse is competing, trail riding, or simply coping with summer heat, you'll walk away with practical tips to help support hydration, performance, and overall health.  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

When a wildfire, flood, hurricane, or other disaster threatens your horses, every minute matters. In Part 2 of our disaster preparedness series, we walk through what a real horse evacuation looks like from receiving the first warning to loading horses, navigating chaotic roads, and arriving at an evacuation facility. Joining us is Amy Hausmann, who shares her firsthand experience during California's devastating Tubbs Fire and the lessons she learned from living through multiple subsequent wildfire evacuations. In this episode, we discuss: • The Ready, Set, Go evacuation system and why horse owners should leave at Level 1 • How to prepare your horses, trailer, go-bags, documents, feed, and emergency contacts before disaster strikes • What happens when evacuation plans fall apart, including horses that won't load and situations where animals must be left behind • What to expect at evacuation centers, how to care for stressed horses, and common health risks after a disaster • The critical role of volunteers, community response teams, and evacuation networks during large-scale emergencies Whether you live in wildfire country, flood-prone areas, hurricane zones, or tornado alley, this episode provides practical, real-world guidance that could help save lives when disaster strikes.  Watch Duty - https://app.watchduty.org/ Fleet of Angels - https://www.fleetofangels.org/  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Every year, natural disasters force horse owners to make critical decisions with little warning. In Part 1 of this two-part series, we cover the essential steps you can take now to prepare your horses, property, and support network before an emergency happens. In this episode, we discuss: • Why every horse needs permanent identification and up-to-date records • Building an emergency support network and connecting with local resources before disaster strikes • Creating an evacuation plan, including destinations, routes, and transportation logistics • Preparing emergency supplies, feed, medications, and essential paperwork for your horses • Why practicing trailer loading and emergency procedures can make all the difference when time is limited Whether your risk is wildfire, flood, hurricane, tornado, derecho, or another natural disaster, the best emergency plan is the one you create before you need it.  This episode will give you the tips you need to get that done.  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Summer means horse shows, trail rides, vacations, and long days on the road with our horses. But are you prepared for the unique challenges that come with trailering horses in hot weather? In this episode we discuss how to keep your horse safe, comfortable, and healthy while traveling during the summer months. In this episode, we cover: • Trailer safety and pre-trip checks • Preventing heat stress during travel • Hydration, salt, and electrolytes • Emergency gear every trailer needs • Biosecurity and travel paperwork Whether you're heading to a horse show, trail riding destination, clinic, or summer getaway, this episode will help you travel safely and confidently with your horse. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Hay season is here! While most horse owners focus on buying and feeding hay, few have firsthand experience with what it actually takes to grow, harvest, and store quality horse hay. In this episode, Jill shares her journey from boarding barns in Arizona to purchasing hay in Colorado and ultimately becoming a hay producer in Iowa. Along the way, we discuss the realities of hay farming, the challenges of producing quality forage, and answer listener questions about hay testing, nutrition, storage, and feeding. In this episode, we discuss: • Jill's journey from horse owner to hay farmer • The challenges of growing and harvesting horse hay • Hay testing, cuttings, and nutrient differences • Feeding fresh hay and evaluating hay quality • Hay costs, production realities, and so much more Whether you're buying a few bales, storing a year's worth of hay, contemplating growing your own, or simply curious about where your horse's forage comes from, this episode offers valuable insights into the world of hay production and equine nutrition. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Seasonal itching, hives, and respiratory issues: equine allergies can be frustrating, confusing, and difficult to manage. In this episode we’re joined by special guest Dr. Rosanna Marsella. Dr. Marsella is a board-certified veterinary dermatologist and professor at the University of Florida. She has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed articles, written several books and contributed to numerous others. She has also served as president of the American College of Veterinary Dermatology and co-editor of Veterinary Dermatology. Together, we unpack the most common causes of allergies in horses, how they present clinically, and what horse owners need to know about diagnosis and treatment especially regarding widely misunderstood topics like food allergies and blood testing. In this episode, we cover: The most common types of equine allergies (insects, environment, and more) and how they show up clinicallyWhen to call your veterinarian and what to expect during diagnosis and treatmentWhy blood allergy testing is often unreliable (especially for feed-related allergies)Practical management strategies, from fly control to environmental changes and nutrition supportAnd so much moreEquine allergies are often misunderstood, and this conversation helps separate common myths from what the science actually shows.   To learn more about Dr. Marsella https://www.vetmed.ufl.edu/profile/marsella-rosanna/  Consensus Statement  https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/vde.13168   Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Ration balancers are one of the most commonly recommended feeds in the horse world but what are they really doing, and does your horse actually need one? If your horse is living on pasture or hay looking good and maintaining weight, it’s easy to assume their diet is “complete". In reality, many diets fall short in key nutrients that support long-term health, topline, and performance. The effects of these deficiencies may not show up for a long time.  In this episode, we break down what ration balancers are, how they work, where they fit into your horse’s feeding program, and some of the most common misconceptions we see. We discuss: What a ration balancer is and how it differs from other feeds and supplementsWhy forage-only diets are often missing key nutrientsThe role of protein, minerals, and vitamins in balancing the dietRation balancer vs. ration-balancing supplements: what’s the differenceWhen you may need to add a ration balancer to other feeds that you are feedingAnd so much moreWhether you’re feeding a performance horse, an easy keeper, or anything in between, this episode will help you better understand how to support your horse’s nutrition without adding unnecessary calories. Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Foal nutrition and young horse development set the foundation for a lifetime of health, soundness, and performance. From birth through weaning and into early training, feeding young horses correctly is critical, but often misunderstood. Nutrition during this stage directly impacts growth, joint health, metabolism, and long-term success. In this episode, we break down foal nutrition, weanling feeding strategies, and young horse development, including how the broodmare supports early growth through lactation, when to introduce feed, and how to avoid common mistakes that can impact soundness. In this episode, we discuss: Foal nutrition from birth, The important roles of protein and calcium in early growthWhen to introduce feed to foals and how to choose the right growth feed for weanlingsHow nutrition and growth rate influence developmental orthopedic disease (OCD) and joint healthBest practices for weaning, diet transitions, and maintaining steady, consistent growthAnd so much moreWhether you’re raising a foal, buying a weanling, or managing young performance horses, this episode will help you make more informed feeding decisions to support healthy growth, soundness, and long-term success.  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!

Mare nutrition plays a far bigger role in foal development than most horse owners realize and the science is now showing that what happens during pregnancy can influence a foal for life. In this episode, we break down and explore how broodmare diet shapes foal growth, metabolism, and long-term soundness. From epigenetics and fetal programming to practical feeding strategies for pregnant mares, this conversation connects cutting-edge research with real-world feeding decisions for horse owners, breeders, and equine professionals. In this episode, we discuss: Why broodmare nutrition is critical before conception and during pregnancyHow epigenetics and fetal programming influence foal developmentThe role of energy intake, body condition score, and metabolic health in maresWhat research shows about overfeeding, restriction, and long-term foal outcomesAnd so much moreWhether you’re breeding performance horses, managing a small broodmare herd, or simply want to better understand equine nutrition science, this episode will change how you think about feeding mares and raising foals.  Do you have questions about feeding your horse? Contact us at [email protected]    Thanks for riding along with us!