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Insulin Resistance in Horses: Why High Insulin Leads to Laminitis
Insulin resistance in horses is one of the most common — and most dangerous — metabolic conditions veterinarians see today. When insulin levels stay too high for too long, the risk of laminitis increases dramatically. The challenge is that insulin resistance often develops quietly, with few obvious signs until a crisis occurs. Understanding what insulin…
Read MoreWhy Farriers Are Often the First to Spot Metabolic Disease in Horses
Metabolic disease in horses rarely announces itself loudly at first. Long before bloodwork changes or obvious symptoms appear, subtle changes begin in the feet — and farriers are often the first professionals to notice. Because the hoof reflects internal health so clearly, farriers play a critical role in identifying early warning signs of metabolic disease…
Read MoreWhat Are the Early Signs of Cushing’s Disease (PPID) in Horses?
Cushing’s disease in horses — properly called Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID) — often develops quietly. Long before the classic long, curly hair coat appears, subtle changes in muscle tone, energy, immunity, and hoof health can signal a problem. Recognizing these early signs allows veterinarians to diagnose PPID sooner, begin treatment earlier, and dramatically reduce…
Read MoreEquine Metabolic Syndrome Explained: Cresty Necks, Fat Pads, and Risk
Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) is often misunderstood — and frequently oversimplified as “a fat horse problem,” but to many owners’ surprise, it can affect lean horses as well. In reality, EMS is a complex metabolic condition that increases a horse’s risk for laminitis, often without dramatic warning signs. Understanding how EMS differs from insulin resistance…
Read MoreDeworming Routine: Why Fecal Egg Count Testing Matters
Parasite control is one of the most important aspects of keeping your horse healthy, yet it’s also one of the most misunderstood. Many horse owners remember the old-school method of deworming every two months with a different product. But is that still necessary today? In this post, we’ll explain how modern parasite control has evolved…
Read MoreCoggins Tests in Horses: For What Is It Testing and Why Is It Required?
If you’ve been involved with horses in any capacity, you’ve probably heard of the Coggins test. But what exactly is this test, and why is it such an essential part of equine health management? In this article, we’ll break down what the Coggins test screens for, why it’s legally required, how it helps protect the…
Read MoreUnderstanding Choke in Horses
Choke is one of the more alarming emergencies horse owners may face — and despite the name, it’s quite different from choking in humans. Horses are obligate nose breathers, meaning they can’t breathe out of their mouths, so when a horse experiences choke, they’re not suffocating, but they do need immediate veterinary attention to prevent…
Read MoreUnderstanding Equine Skin Allergies and Hives During Spring
Spring is a beautiful season, often symbolizing new beginnings, blooming flowers, and warmer weather. However, for horse owners, it can also signify the start of allergy season for their equine companions. Horses, like humans, can suffer from various skin allergies, and hives are a common manifestation of these allergic reactions. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and…
Read MoreUnderstanding Anhidrosis in Horses: Causes, Symptoms, and Management
Anhidrosis, often referred to as “non-sweating,” is a condition in horses that impairs their ability to sweat normally. Sweating is crucial for regulating body temperature, and when a horse cannot sweat adequately, it can lead to severe overheating and other health complications. This condition is particularly concerning in warmer climates where high temperatures and humidity…
Read MorePreparing Your Horse for Winter: Essential Health and Wellness Tips
As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, preparing your horse for the colder months becomes a priority. Winter brings unique challenges for equine care, from feeding adjustments to managing coat growth and ensuring joint and dental health. Here’s a guide to help you keep your horse comfortable, healthy, and ready to thrive through the…
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