Mud fever, also known as pastern dermatitis, scratches, grease heel, etc., is a common skin condition in horses caused by a combination of wet and muddy conditions, bacteria, and fungi. It typically affects the lower legs, especially white ones, and, if not addressed properly. can cause discomfort and lameness. Immune-challenged horses are also more susceptible to getting mud fever.

As the vibrant colors of spring emerge and the weather warms, horse owners are gearing up to provide their equine companions with the care they need for the season ahead. Here are some essential spring tune-up tips to keep your horse happy, healthy, and ready for action.

There has been a lot of news about Avian Flu infecting cattle and humans. Is it possible horses could contract this and other diseases? What can horse owners do to protect their horses? In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April discusses ways to keep horses as healthy as possible and empower people to help their horses rather than always relying on paid services.

Vaccines are often considered a cornerstone of equine health, but have you ever wondered exactly what’s in them, or how they might be affecting your horse’s long-term health?

notually, it is a few HOURS before the vet can get to you, so what can you do to help your horse while waiting? Recently, I worked on some horses that were distressed with colic symptoms while I was at their farm. The first gelding, we got out of the colic by the time...

If your horse bucks, resists the canter, or just feels off under saddle, the first thing many people assume is that it’s a training issue. Maybe the horse is being stubborn, or maybe it just needs more groundwork. But I want to let you in on something I’ve seen over and over again—those “training problems” are almost always your horse trying to say, “Ouch, that hurts!”

Every season, I hear from folks battling mosquitoes, flies, and ticks in the barn, garden, and pasture. Over the years, I’ve found a few easy tricks that make a big difference. If you’re tired of swatting bugs during barn chores or want to keep your horses happy and itch-free, these are the solutions I use myself, and they work!

In this episode, our founder, April Love, shares valuable information on maintaining the well-being of older horses, focusing on a simple recipe for a vegan fat source. The discussion delves into practical tips for horses with missing teeth, difficulty gaining weight, and the importance of identifying and addressing insulin resistance.

Does your black horse fade to brown in the summer? In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April discusses how the color change is likely due to a copper deficiency in the horse’s diet. She suggests feeding the horse Dynamite Liquid Trace Minerals once a week to provide the necessary copper and prevent the fading of its black coat.

In this episode of Holistic Horseworks Talks, April Love discusses ways to handle moodiness in mares during the summer when they are cycling. The main concern is that the moody behavior may affect interactions with other horses, and impact performance at horse shows or events. By understanding the mare’s specific needs, balancing her hormonal system, and addressing any physical discomfort, it becomes possible to improve her behavior and overall well-being. Similar to humans, horses can become irritable when in pain.