Tag Archives: fermentation

Equine Probiotics – Where Are We Now?

Posted on October 7, 2018 by

The World Health Organization definition of probiotic is a live organism which, when consumed in sufficient amount, confers a health benefit The microbiome is the microorganisms inhabiting a specific environment, like the gut. The number, complexity and diversity of organisms … Continue reading →

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The Hind Gut Acidity Bandwagon is Dangerous

Posted on December 19, 2016 by

It’s the trendy diagnosis.  Hind gut acidity, sometimes used synonymously with hind gut ulcers, is blamed for a staggering array of signs ranging from poor appetite to cracked hooves to right hind lameness and any undesirable behavior trait you can … Continue reading →

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Hay – Much More than Fiber

Posted on October 31, 2016 by

Hay used to be widely viewed as having little or no nutritional value beyond being a source of fiber which provided horses with chew time and made them feel full between meals.  That has largely changed but even those who … Continue reading →

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Fire in the Belly

Posted on November 30, 2015 by

You’ve heard your horse’s intestinal tract referred to as a furnace.  Obviously that’s not literally what happens.  It is where fermentation takes place.  Fermentation reactions produce cheese and your favorite adult beverage but that’s not what is going on either. … Continue reading →

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Worried about Hay Belly?

Posted on January 18, 2013 by

“Hay belly” refers to distention of the abdomen. When viewed from the front, the horse looks pregnant. However, it is not caused by hay per se. A horse can eat very large amounts of hay and still look trim. It’s … Continue reading →

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