Advertise on podcast: The Horse HealthCast with SmartPak

From ketchup to disco balls, Horse HealthCast explores the weird and wonderful tricks horse people swear by, with a closer look at the difference between a clever shortcut and a potentially risky remedy. Products: Shampoo & ConditionQuicSilverCowboy MagicBucket Insulators Education: Learn about Barn Fires & Prevention

Dr. Brian Nielsen, researcher, internationally recognized equine exercise physiologist, university professor, and co-author of the National Research Council's "Nutrient Requirements of Horses” joins Ashlee and Jenna to talk about how equine nutrient requirements are determined using the 2007 NRC Nutrient Requirements of Horses. Explore macro- and micronutrients, ration evaluation, and how nutritionists use science to determine what individual horses need. Educational Articles: Nutrient Requirement of Horses (browser version)Nutrient Requirement of Horses (print version)Feed XL: Horse Nutrition Calculator

(Mares, they’re just like us! … Kind of!) Learn how to better understand mare care, from the equine estrous cycle and signs of heat to mare supplements, behavioral changes, and veterinary options for managing discomfort and hormonal changes. Links: Educational Articles: Understanding Hormones & Behavioral Changes of Mares in Heat Supplements with Herbs for Hormonal Mares What to Expect When Using Mare Supplements Products: Mare Supplements Calming & Behavior Supplements

Prepare your horse for fall with practical tips for seasonal changes in forage, nutrition, hydration, exercise, wellness care, and barn management. Learn what to evaluate now to help keep your horse healthy and comfortable as winter approaches. Links to products and articles mentioned in today's show: ColiCareEquine Fecal Test Kit Parasites & Deworming Articles in our Horse Health Library Horse Electrolyte Supplements & Water Additives Beat the Heat Series Fall Horse Care When Should Horses Be Vaccinated AgSilver Bucket Fall Horse Health Checklist Nutrition ☐ Evaluate pasture availability☐ Secure/inspect hay supply☐ Review current diet/supplements☐ Plan forage transitions☐ Check body condition Hydration ☐ Monitor water consumption☐ Keep fresh water available☐ Reassess salt/electrolyte strategy as workload changes Exercise ☐ Review current workload☐ Plan any changes gradually☐ Decide what winter conditioning will look like Health ☐ Schedule wellness exam if appropriate☐ Dental check☐ Discuss parasite control☐ Discuss vaccinations with your veterinarian☐ Evaluate weight/body condition Barn ☐ Check blankets☐ Check ventilation☐ Prepare for changing temperatures☐ Review emergency supplies

Learn the signs, causes, prevention, and treatment of equine colic, including common colic types and what to do during a horse colic emergency. Links to products/articles mentioned in this episode: Equine Colic Survival Scoring SystemColiCareColiCare Eligible SupplementsEquine Fecal Test Kit Parasites & Deworming Articles in our Horse Health Library Horse Dental Care: From Exams to “Floating” to Extractions Horse Electrolyte Supplements & Water Additives

Colic surgery is one of the most stressful experiences a horse owner can face, which is why being prepared can make all the difference. In this episode, we explain when surgery is necessary, what happens at the hospital, how horses recover, and how ColiCare can provide peace of mind before an emergency ever happens. Links to products/articles mentioned in this episode: Colic Resource Center Your Guide to Colic Surgery in the Horse Equine Colic Survival Scoring System ColiCare ColiCare Eligible Supplements

Every rider has asked the question: "Is it too hot to ride?" In this episode, we explore the factors that influence heat stress risk in horses, including temperature, humidity, air quality, fitness level, workload, and recovery. Learn how to recognize warning signs, adjust your riding plans during extreme weather, and make informed decisions that help keep your horse safe, healthy, and performing at their best all summer long. Links to products/articles mentioned in this episode: Heat Stress in Horses: How Hot is Too Hot to Ride?Anhidrosis in Horses (Non-Sweating or Dry Coat)Preventing Dehydration in HorsesAsk The Vet: When is it Too Hot to Ride My Horse?Exercises for Your Horse in Hot Weather

Electrolytes are one of the most talked-about topics in summer horse care, but do you know what they actually do? In this episode of Horse HealthCast, we break down the role electrolytes play in hydration, recovery, and performance for every horse (not just performance horses). Learn how horses lose electrolytes through sweat, how supplementation differs from providing salt alone, and how to build a smart hydration plan for training, travel, and competition season. Links to products mentioned: Mineral Blocks: Redmond Rock Salt BlockHimalayan Salt Licks Electrolytes: SmartLytes® PelletsSmartLytes® PowderLegUp® Electrolyte Apple-A-Day™ Summer Games® Electrolyte Hydration: Gallagher's Water™ Hydration Hay AgSilver Clean Bucket

Heat isn't the only summer concern to be aware of. When's the last time you thought about your horse's sun exposure? In this episode, we take a closer look at UV protection for horses, including which horses are most at risk and how sun exposure can affect skin, eyes, comfort, and even performance. We discuss practical management strategies, protective gear, and nutritional support that can help keep your horse protected throughout the summer season. Links to articles and products mentioned: Preventing Sunburn in Horses Sunflower Suncoat™ Spray Essential Equine Sunscreen Equiderma Zinc Paste Absorbine® Santa Fe™ Coat Conditioner & Sunscreen SmartUV-Eye® Pellets SmartGrey Defense® Pellets SmartPak UV Fly Sheet SmartMesh Ultimate Fly Sheet SmartPak UV90+ Fly Mask SmartPak UV90+ Fly Mask w/ Extended Nose SmartEquine UV90+ Visor Fly Mask

Sweating is one of your horse's most important cooling mechanisms, so what happens when it doesn't work properly? In this episode of Horse HealthCast, we explore how horses regulate body temperature, the warning signs of heat stress, and what owners should know about anhidrosis, heaves, and more. From management strategies and cooling techniques to hydration and supportive nutrition, learn how to help your horse stay comfortable and healthy through the hottest months of the year. Key Learnings to Listen for: Sweating is a specialized adaptation unique to humans and horses among mammals.Evaporative cooling efficiency hinges on environmental humidity, not just temperature.Anhidrosis severely impacts a horse's ability to regulate body temperature.Management strategies for anhidrosis focus on keeping horses cool and comfortable. Links to products and articles mentioned in this episode: Gallagher's Water Electrolytes Equiwinner Patches Anhidrosis Article Too Hot to Ride Article

Fly control doesn’t stop at sprays and sheets. In this episode, we explore insect control supplements for horses, including repellent formulas and insect growth regulators. Learn how they work, what ingredients to look for, and how to build a more effective, layered fly management plan. Giveaway Links: SmartItch-Ease™ SmartBug-Off® Ultra Pellets SmartImmune™ Mushroom SmartItch-Ease™ Equinox365 Crusader™ Fly Mask - Standard - With Ears SmartPak Comfort Fly Mask - Extended Nose w/ SmartCore™ Technology SmartPak Comfort Fly Mask w/ SmartCore Technology Pro-Force 50® Spot-On for Horses

Flies are a known summer nuisance. They can impact your horse’s comfort, behavior, and performance. In this episode, we break down the best ways to protect your horse using smart barn management strategies to keep bugs at bay. Co-Hosts: Ashlee Lecompte Lazic, Jenna Boscardin Links Giveaway BlogGiveaway FormSmartPak Fine Mesh Fly Sheet SmartMesh Ultimate Fly Sheet Fly Sheets Fly Masks Fly Boots Fly StoppersOutSmart® Fly Spray Fly Repellent Ultrashield Black Ultrashield Gold Fly Traps & More

Gastric health plays a major role in your horse’s comfort, behavior, and performance. In this episode, we break down common risk factors, signs of stomach stress, and how management, supplements, and veterinary care all work together to support a healthy horse. Links: Giveaway BlogGiveaway FormHost: Ashlee Lecompte LazicHost: Jenna BoscardinSmartGut Ultra SmartGut SmartGut Ultra Research Feeding Forage Before Exercise Research SmartGI Ultra Slow Feed Hay Bag Slow Feed Round Hay Bag SmartPak Small Hole Hay Net Shires Ball FeederJolly Hay BallLeMeiux Hay BallUlcer Gard

Eventing is often called the equestrian triathlon, but what does that really mean for horse and rider? In this episode, we break down the three phases of eventing, what it takes to compete at the highest level, and what makes the Kentucky Three-Day Event one of the most exciting events in the sport. Links: Giveaway BlogGiveaway FormHost: Ashlee Lecompte LazicHost: Jenna Boscardinhttps://www.smartpakequine.com/ps/smartlytes-pellets-9585https://www.smartpakequine.com/ps/smartlytes-powder-6321https://www.smartpakequine.com/ps/smartlytes-paste-11350https://www.smartpakequine.com/ps/smartcombo-ultra-pellets-9474https://www.smartpakequine.com/ps/smartcombo-ultimate-pellets-12547https://www.smartpakequine.com/ps/smartstride-senior-pellets-18652

Running a barn means managing a lot more than horses. In this episode, we’re joined by Danielle from SmartBarn Services to talk about how her team supports barn professionals with supplement planning, account management, and expert guidance. Giveaway BlogGiveaway FormHost: Ashlee Lecompte LazicHost: Jenna BoscardinGuest: Danielle MacnamaraSmartBarn Services