We discuss the findings of a South Korean study on the canine microbiome and chronic kidney disease; the Critter of the Show is the capybara; and in Critter Nutrition we focus on building topline for horses. Plus, everyone chimes in on which past equestrian fashion trends we’d love to see make a comeback.
Listen in!
Guests and Links for Episode 189:
- Co-Hosts: Tigger Montague from BioStar US and Pati Pierucci from Pierucci Dressage
- Study: Alterations of the gut microbiome in canine chronic kidney disease
- Ask Hedwig
- Learn more about supplements for your horse and dog’s health at Biostar US
- Follow Healthy Critters Radio on Facebook
– photo credits: Serita Hult, Pixabay
Co-host Tigger Montague brings us up to speed on building and maintaining topline for horses:
“One of the most common issues with our horses is that of the topline. The muscles over the top of the neck, back, and hindquarters are what reflect athleticism and a healthy appearance to our eyes.
Of course, we cannot control genetics. Some horses are born with strong back, neck and hindquarter muscles, can live in a field, and have a good topline; while others can be fed pounds of feed and added supplements and still not have the topline the owner or trainer desires.
The process of building muscles up also includes the process of muscle breakdown. Stand ringside at any CDI or CSIO and you will see top dressage and jumpers who don’t have wow-factor toplines. It can be much more challenging to add topline to a very fit horse than one that is not so fit.
Topline can be developed with specific nutrition: protein providing the essential amino acids and the branched-chain amino acids, anti oxidants such as Vitamin E, and minerals such as selenium. Combine nutrition with exercise, including hill work, and training that focuses on correct use of back, neck, and hindquarters.
Topline can also be affected by ill-fitting saddles, weight loss, poor shoeing, EPM, EPSM, PSSM, Cushings Disease, and Lyme Disease. Older horses can lose their toplines as part of the aging process.”
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!
