What to look for in a clinician to ride with; the Critter of the Show is the Polish Chicken; in Critter Nutrition we focus on Vitamin E for horses; and in Coffee Klatch we ask: What breed of dog are you?
Listen in!
Guests and Links for Episode 164:
- Link to Sound File for Sight Impaired: Click Here
- Co-Hosts:
Tigger Montague from Biostar US and Pati Pierucci from Pierucci Dressage - Ask Hedwig
- Learn more about Vitamin E for Horses
- Learn more about Whole Food Supplements for Your Horse and Dog’s Optimal Health at Biostar US
- Photos care of Pixabay
Tigger Montague describes why vitamin E is so important to your horse:
“Vitamin E is one of the essential vitamins that horses cannot synthesize or make in their bodies. Unlike the B vitamins, which are produced in concert with the microbiota in the hindgut, vitamin E must be provided through food. Fresh forage is the best food source of vitamin E for horses.
What does vitamin E do? It plays an important role in health and performance as a “super antioxidant,” by protecting tissues and cells from harmful free radicals. Without antioxidants like vitamin E, free radicals and oxidative stress can cause irreparable damage to cell membranes. Because it’s a fat-soluble vitamin, vitamin E can incorporate itself directly into cell membranes and help protect them. Vitamin E is essential for the reproductive, circulatory, immune, muscular, and nervous systems of the body.
Does your horse get vitamin E from hay? While hay does provide Vitamin E, only small amounts survive the cutting, baling, and drying process. It’s estimated that 86% of vitamin E content is lost in the haying process. Horses who are on hay all winter, on dry lots, or on restricted access to fresh forage will need to be supplemented with vitamin E.”
At Healthy Critters Radio, we are hopeless animal lovers who want to share our experience and knowledge with you, for the betterment of your animals’ lives. We focus on health, nutrition, behavior, and ideas for overall well-being and happiness. Twice a month, we bring you guest experts, advice, commentary, and a lot of fun and laughter! If there is ever a topic you’d like for us to cover, let us know on our contact page!
