Juliet Getty, Ph.D.
Dr. Getty Says Forage Deprivation Keeps Your Horse Fat
There’s a component to weight loss that has nothing to do with calories – it has to do with hormones.
Your Mare’s Pregnancy: Nutrition for the Final 3 Months
During the first eight months of pregnancy, your mare may be fed like any other horse, with a balanced, quality diet. But things are changing rapidly during this last stage of pregnancy: She requires more calories, more protein, more omega 3s, and balanced vitamins and minerals, not only for the unborn foal but also to prepare for milk production.
Respect the Power of the Horse's Instincts
I respect and honor the way horses are made—they are different—unique, really. In a suitable, native environment, they are quite capable of taking care of themselves.
Feeding Horses: Hay Before Grain?
This is a recurring question that I receive. Which should be fed first, hay or grain? If you’re feeding correctly, this issue is truly a moot point because the horse should have access to forage in hay and/or pasture 24/7 with no gaps. Therefore, when fed concentrates, the horse's digestive tract should already have hay flowing through it.
Eating! An Important Key to Improving Equine Insulin Resistance
Do you have an overweight horse? Chances are he is insulin resistant. Excess body fat leads to elevated insulin. Elevated insulin leads to more body fat storage, which leads to greater insulin resistance, and the vicious cycle continues.
Feed a Miniature Horse as a Horse, With Some Caveats!
Miniature Horses are adorable. They not only make great pets, but offer ample showing opportunities including halter, jumping, driving and trails. Because of their small stature, they also make excellent therapy horses for ill or disabled adults and children.
Added Fat Improves Behavior
Diet affects behavior. This makes sense. A well-fed horse is healthy. And a healthy horse feels good. Conversely, a poorly-nourished horse is suffering. A variation in hormone levels, for example, can...
