Equine Nutrition

Grazing muzzles allow horses to experience the benefits of pasture turnout (exercise, socialization with herd members and the natural act of grazing) while restricting grass intake. They can be a valuable tool to allow horses to spend time on pasture while limiting intake; however, this is just one component in developing an overall feeding plan for the overweight or NSC-sensitive horse. A nutrition expert shares some tips for considering a grazing muzzle for your horse.

Cold winter nights are made for baking, and your horse deserves a homemade treat, too! We're excited to share five of Team Tough1's favorite recipes to inspire some holiday creativity.

How do you extend grazing time without costing an arm and a leg? Slow feed hay nets are the most popular way for horse owners to help their horses maintain the consistent grazing that their digestive system needs, as well as keep the horse mentally stimulated throughout the day.

Horses should have access to clean water year-round; however, as temperatures rise, keeping the trough clean becomes more challenging due to the growth of algae. Frequent cleaning is vital to keep the water fresh and inviting, especially if you use plastic tanks.

Water is the most essential nutrient source for all living beings. And, for horses, it's important to have fresh, clean water available at all times to keep them healthy. How you offer water to your horse can make all the difference whether he drinks or doesn't drink.

How is your relationship with your hay bag going? If your day at the barn starts with a wrestling match with a hay net, it's time to move on. An innovative hay feeder from Tough1 will not only save you from your frustrations but also save you time and money.

Every spring and summer I get lots of questions like, "What is that thing on your face?" It's my grazing muzzle! Sometimes, people who have never seen a grazing muzzle before think that it's "mean" until they understand how a grazing muzzle can actually save a horse's life. So, I’m here to tell you a little bit about why I wear my muzzle, and how it helps me.

For some humans it's a daily occurrence, stepping onto the scale to check your weight. That, and the fit of your pants, seem to be the most popular way humans keep track of their weight loss or gain. It's just as equally important for horse owners to keep records of their horse's weight, to track down any concerns, should there be any, before it's too late.

It's Spring and past time to break out those muzzles for your horses and ponies. I know it may feel awful putting them on in the beginning; it's tough love for sure. But muzzles are a small and easy-to-implement daily way to protect your horse, pony or mini's health, especially for those at a great risk for obesity and laminitis. 

Is one of your New Year’s resolutions to not only take care of your health, but also your horse’s health? Managing your horse’s diet shouldn’t be overwhelming. We asked equine nutritionist Kristen Janicki, MS, PAS, to share some tips.