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Tack Box Talk

154 episodes - English - Latest episode: 7 days ago - ★★★★★ - 10 ratings

Equine academic professionals from across the country share their personal knowledge of all things horse to help you become a better owner.

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Episodes

Foaling Part 2: The story of what needs to happen after baby has arrived

April 17, 2024 15:00 - 37 minutes - 25.6 MB

In this episode, Marissa Chapa, herd manager at Oklahoma State University, and Paige Linne, senior lecturer at Texas A&M University, return to talk about the needed care after the foal arrives.  Follow the simple 1, 2, 3 rule to know if your foal is on the path to success.

Beware the white and yellow flowers: The story of when pretty things turn deadly

April 08, 2024 20:00 - 28 minutes - 19.8 MB

Dr. Krishona Martinson, equine extension specialist at the University of Minnesota, tells us what to be on the look out for what may be lurking in the shadows.  Poisonous plants can often be found in shady, wet areas and along fence lines.  Learn what you need to be aware of in your horse pastures.

It's Foal Time! The story of when not to panic

March 20, 2024 04:00 - 45 minutes - 31.5 MB

Marissa Chapa, herd manager for Oklahoma State University, and Paige Linne,  Senior Lecturer for Texas A&M, share how they guide nervous students through the foaling process. From tips on how you know foaling is close, to how to stay relaxed, these instructors have a unique take on how to approach foaling season.

Majestic oak or killer in disguise? The stories of what trees you need to be aware of in your horse pasture

March 06, 2024 05:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MB

Dr. Krishona Martinson, equine extension specialist at the University of Minnesota shares her tips on what trees are great at providing shade, and what trees may be a hidden danger in your pasture. But relax, it's not all bad news!

What's that?: The story of toxic plants commonly found in hay

February 21, 2024 19:00 - 29 minutes - 20.2 MB

Dr. Krishona Martinson, equine extension specialist from the University of Minnesota, shares her type 5 list of toxic plants commonly found in hay.  We discuss how to avoid them, how to spot them, and what  your horse may experience.  So learn how to keep your horse safe by inspecting that hay!

Feeding Myths: The stories of not always believing what you hear.

February 07, 2024 05:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MB

Dr. Nettie Liburt, of Liburt Equine Nutritional Consulting, shares her top misunderstanding that are frequently heard in the horse world. From what makes horses hot, to can you actually blow up your horse, we have a fun chat on what the data really tells us. For more information, visit Extension Horses

Riding through the cold: The story of knowing when enough is enough

January 23, 2024 16:00 - 35 minutes - 24.2 MB

Dr. Bob Coleman, University of Kentucky and former Canadian, shares tips on continuing to ride horses through the winter or those cold snaps the southerners are sometimes are exposed to.

Buying hay out of state: The story of buyer beware

January 08, 2024 14:00 - 33 minutes - 22.8 MB

Recently there have been several cases of horses becoming sick and dying reportedly from consuming imported hay.  With challenges of climate conditions and weather making consistent hay supplies problematic, horse owners may need to navigate the process of buying hay from out of state.  Dr. Krishona Martinson, University of Minnesota, and Dr. Betsy Greene, University of Arizona, share their top 10 tips to horse owners to keep  you from being scammed and keep your horse healthy. Horses.exten...

Growing in winter: The story of what grasses due in the South!

December 27, 2023 05:00 - 30 minutes - 21 MB

Brian Pugh, Agronomy Area Specialist for Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, discusses the unique characteristics of grass in the southern states. Compared with our neighbors to the north, we really can graze year round with a little careful planning and understanding of grass biology.  So take a listen and learn why gramma does more then bake cookies.

Growing in winter: The story of what grasses do in the South!

December 27, 2023 05:00 - 30 minutes - 21 MB

Brian Pugh, Agronomy Area Specialist for Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, discusses the unique characteristics of grass in the southern states. Compared with our neighbors to the north, we really can graze year round with a little careful planning and understanding of grass biology.  So take a listen and learn why gramma does more then bake cookies.

My Horse Has What?: The story of allergy and microbiome testing - are they really worth it?

December 13, 2023 16:00 - 49 minutes - 34.2 MB

Dr. Katie Young, independent nutritionist and consultant for Kentucky Equine Research, and Dr. Stephen Coleman, associate professor at Colorado State University who specializes in molecular genetics (and son to our own Dr. Bob!) provide the low down on food allergy and microbiome testing.  Are they really telling you what you need to know?

Fall Pastures: The story of putting pastures to bed

November 21, 2023 19:00 - 30 minutes - 21.1 MB

Dr. Krishona Martinson, University of Minnesota Extension Specialist, and Dr. Carey Williams, Rutgers University Extension Specialist discuss how weather and season affects growing patterns in grasses.  We get into the details on how temperature affects dormancy and why just because the grass is green doesn't mean the horses should be grazing!

AQHLearn: The story of the best deal in town

November 10, 2023 21:00 - 29 minutes - 20.5 MB

Katie Reynolds and Helen Hardy, both with AQHA and AQHYA share an innovative new program developed by AQHA to help address the educational needs of all horse owners.  Built in levels, this curriculum offers something for everyone. The new platform is available to everyone with greater access for AQHA members, but guess what, you don't need a Quarter Horse! AQHLearn.com

Cattle and horses: The story of everyone getting along

September 29, 2023 04:00 - 40 minutes - 28.2 MB

Dr. Chelsie Huseman, assistant professor at Texas A&M University and first time guest, shares advice on farming and ranching with horses and cattle at the same time.  We discuss fencing, specific horse and cattle toxicities, feeding practices and parasite control. In short - we cover alot!

Youth Horse Judging: The story of getting a leg up on life skills

September 17, 2023 13:00 - 25 minutes - 17.6 MB

Dr. Kathy Anderson, University of Nebraska and Kyla Szemplinski, youth educator in Shelby County and part of the University of Tennessee extension system, share why they believe youth horse judging can lead to future success. We talk about the critical life skills or soft skills that can be taught through youth judging beyond just knowing more about horses.  We discuss advice for parents and leaders on how to get kids started, and share a wealth of online resources to make coaching easy! Ho...

Heat Stress: The story of not losing your cool

August 28, 2023 18:00 - 37 minutes - 25.7 MB

Dr. Betsy Greene from the University of Arizona, expert at living in 115 degrees, and Dr. Carey Williams from the land of humidity, share their tips on avoiding heat stress in horses.  From choosing the right time of day, to what temperatures to just call it quits. We also discuss the best most scientifically proven methods to cool the overheated horse.

Many meals, fiber as fuel: The stories of learning the best fuel for performance and optimizing protein intake

August 21, 2023 04:00 - 30 minutes - 21.2 MB

In this episode, Dr. Nettie Liburt, shares research presented at the recent Equine Science Society meetings.  We discuss feeding protein more frequently may optimize absorption, fiber should not be forgotten as an important fuel source for racehorses, and then just go on a tangent on insulin dysregulation.

When old is new again: The stories of lessons learned from the past

August 06, 2023 20:00 - 24 minutes - 16.8 MB

Dr. Bob Coleman, University of Kentucky equine extension specialist, shares his favorite presentations from the recent ESS meetings.  We talk about a youth horsemanship school with a 50 year history from Texas A&M University. Then we talk a bit about the evolution of the horse to fit a unique digestive niche.

Os Phos: The Story of when it's right, and when it's wrong

July 15, 2023 04:00 - 44 minutes - 30.9 MB

In this episode, Dr. Brian Nielsen, expert on bone physiology from Michigan State University, weighs in the use of Os Phos in young horses. In this wide ranging talk, we discuss many issues of young horse health, from building better bone and minds, to the importance of pain.  We even get into the nitty gritty of bone biology and osteoporosis in women.  

Sheep, owners and smart tech: The stories of heart rates, circles and unrealistic owners

July 06, 2023 18:00 - 19 minutes - 13.7 MB

Dr. Alyssa Logan, from Middle Tennessee State University visits the program for the first time.  She shares her favorite abstracts on owners perspectives of weight and condition in horses, some wearable technology for horses and sheep of all things.  Yes, there is a reason to run sheep in circles!

Weight loss solutions and foal size: The stories of what really matters

June 29, 2023 17:00 - 27 minutes - 19 MB

In this episode we continue reviewing some of our member's favorite abstracts from the Equine Science Society meetings.  Drs. Kathy Anderson and Danielle Smarsh talk about the most effective methods of weigh loss in overweight horses, whether foal size at birth translates to different sized adults, and if electrolyte supplementation is needed for light to moderately exercised horses.

Equine Science Society 2023: The Stories of not eating where you poop, old horses, hay nets and pasture tracks

June 15, 2023 20:00 - 37 minutes - 26.1 MB

In this episode, Dr. Krishona Martinson and Robyn Stewart share their take on their favorite abstracts they watched at the 2023 Equine Science Society meetings.  We discuss the impact of hay nets on teeth, when folks think horses are old, if pasture tracks make a difference and poop versus urea - which is better! To read the complete abstracts and findings, click on the links below 64 A preliminary study: Effect of hay nets on horse hay usage, dental wear, and dental conditions in mature a...

Horses in Higher Ed: The story of combining college and horses

May 27, 2023 14:00 - 31 minutes - 21.5 MB

Dr. Karin Bump, owner of Equine Academics and Saddle Up New York gives parents and young people advice on whether "horse" college is right for you.  We talk about careers in the horse industry, whether or not students should pursue a college degree, and what type of college might be right for them. Dr. Bump also shares a fantastic tool to search for equine related colleges: the Equine Education Network. Equine Education Network

Untitled Episode

May 27, 2023 14:00 - 31 minutes - 21.5 MB

Dr. Karin Bump, owner of Equine Academics and Saddle Up New York gives parents and young people advice on whether "horse" college is right for you.  We talk about careers in the horse industry, whether or not students should pursue a college degree, and what type of college might be right for them. Dr. Bump also shares a fantastic tool to search for equine related colleges: the Equine Education Network. Equine Education Network

Ticks! The Story of keep calm and pick them off

May 10, 2023 00:00 - 46 minutes - 31.9 MB

Dr. Erika Machtinger, Dr. Danielle Smarsh and Laura Kenney, all of Penn State University guide horse owner's through a discussion on ticks. From disease they carry, the environments they live in and how to properly pick them off.  If you have horses and ever venture out to trail ride - tick checks are for you!

SCRUB: The story of science creating real understanding of biosecurity

April 28, 2023 04:00 - 35 minutes - 24.3 MB

Dr. Besty Greene and Dr. Kris Hiney, share the story of how they designed and created fun educational curriculum to drive home the importance of biosecurity.  If you are a 4-H or youth club leader, ag teacher, or  anyone involved with education, this one's for you! This is the DIY version of making science fun and affordable, while learning important lessons on properly caring for horses, and other livestock as well. For the complete SCRUB curriculum: SCRUB: Educational kits

Equine Infectious Anemia: The Story of staying on the right side of the law

April 14, 2023 21:00 - 32 minutes - 22.3 MB

Dr. Beth Ruby, staff veterinarian at the Oklahoma Dept of Ag, and Director of Avian and Equine Health, covers why it is so important to have horses tested for Equine Infectious Anemia.  We clear up some laws and share what might be different from state to state. And most importantly, we talk about why more horses might be testing positive for EIA.

Mud Matters: The story of how wet dirt can lead to big trouble for horses

March 29, 2023 23:00 - 29 minutes - 20.6 MB

Robyn Stewart, Agriculture and Natural  Resources Agent for the University of Georgia shares why mud can be a big deal for horses.  Not an inevitable part of spring, prolonged periods of standing in mud can cause significant health issues for horses.  We talk thrush, white line disease, scratches and cellulitis. Missed our episode on managing mud? The link is below. Managing Mud: The story of keeping your boots on while building a sandwich

Ration Balancers: The story of how very little feed can go a long way

March 14, 2023 14:00 - 34 minutes - 23.5 MB

Dr. Carey Williams, Rutgers University, and Dr. Nettie Liburt, Buckeye Nutrition, explain the purpose and concept behind ration balancers.  This mighty little feed might just be the solution you are looking for. For pastured horses, overweight horses, and even growing horses, ration balancers pack a punch. 

Blanket Science: The story of really knowing if they work!

February 26, 2023 16:00 - 25 minutes - 17.8 MB

Dr. Michelle DeBoer, first time guest to the program, and assistant professor at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls shares the data she has collected on the effects of blanketing on hay intake, body weight and hair length.  We also discuss the age old question - do they really need blankets?  And we tackle a bit of question - do they really want to have blankets on!

Musical Freestyle: The story of dancing with horses

February 13, 2023 19:00 - 29 minutes - 20.4 MB

In this episode we visit with, Ruth Hogan-Poulsen, coach, trainer and choreographer for horses!  We discuss musical freestyle or setting dressage to music.  Horses of all levels can now compete in this fun toe tapping event, even the western horses. Ruth also shares how music can influence horses and change your ride.  There is a whole lot more to choreography for horses than just throwing together a mix tape! For more information: Ruth Hogen-Poulsen

Knowing Normal: The Story of practicing observation before you need it

January 25, 2023 22:00 - 32 minutes - 22.4 MB

Dr. Betsy Greene, University of Arizona, and Dr. Sara Mastellar, Ohio State ATI, remind horse owners the importance of knowing normal data on your horse, and practicing your observation skills.  They discuss health checks from head to tail.  Plus we learn a fun word of the day - borborygmi! Knowing normal

Veterinary Behaviorist: The Story of when your horse needs more help

January 17, 2023 20:00 - 41 minutes - 28.2 MB

Dr. Leticia Fanucchi, DVM, PhD, a veterinary behaviorist at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, explains what exactly a behaviorist is, and when your horse may need to see one!  Often associated more with companion animals, veterinary behaviorists may be the answer when a horse has behavioral issues beyond that of just lack of training or being unfamiliar with humans. We correctly define terms such as desensitization and counter conditioning and discuss how they can be ...

Veterinary Behavior: The Story of when your horse needs more help

January 17, 2023 20:00 - 41 minutes - 28.2 MB

Dr. Leticia Fanucchi, DVM, PhD, a veterinary behavior service clinician, at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, explains what exactly a behaviorist is, and when your horse may need to see one!  Often associated more with companion animals, veterinary behaviorists may be the answer when a horse has behavioral issues beyond that of just lack of training or being unfamiliar with humans. We correctly define terms such as desensitization and counter conditioning and discuss ...

Do you have a prescription?: The story of how new laws relative to antibiotics will affect horse owners

December 22, 2022 14:00 - 33 minutes - 23.4 MB

In this episode Dr. Rod Hall, state veterinarian for Oklahoma, discusses how the new FDA guidelines around antibiotic usage will affect horse owners.  Going fully online in June,  the time is now to develop a VCPR.  Dr. Hall explains exactly what that entails, and delves into the current veterinary shortage. Wisconsin summary of law

Sub-epiglottal Ulcers: The story of learning a new thing that can go wrong in horses.

December 07, 2022 21:00 - 30 minutes - 21 MB

Dr. Nettie Liburt updates the health condition of her perennial problem child ET with a new disorder - subepiglottic ulcers.  If you've never heard of this particular disorder, tune in so you can learn what you are missing out on! https://www.ivis.org/library/aaep/aaep-annual-convention-new-orleans-2003/how-to-evaluate-and-treat-ulceration-of-glosso   https://thehorse.com/152098/diagnosing-respiratory-tract-ulcers/   https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20383989/

Equine Composting: The story of practicality for horse owners

November 23, 2022 05:00 - 40 minutes - 27.6 MB

Dr. Krishona Martinson, University of Minnesota Equine Extension Specialist, and Dr. Lena Luck, University of Nebraska Equine Youth Extension Specialist, discuss their research into the practicality and benefits of equine composting. While owners never want to say goodbye, composting can be an easy low cost way to handle remains, while creating a product that can keep their horses with them forever. For more information on equine composting: University of Minnesota composting resources Okl...

Forage Alternatives: The Story of what to do when hay is scarce

November 10, 2022 18:00 - 34 minutes - 24 MB

This past summer recorded severe drought across much of the country, combined with high fuel and fertilizer prices. What hay may be available will certainly cost more. Owners may want to stretch their hay supply by using forage products or forage alternatives.  University of Georgia's Extension system, Agriculture and Natural Resources educator, Robyn Stewart walks us through how these products can be used effectively in feeding programs.

Bringing up the Next Generation: The story of innovative youth programs and inspiring volunteers

October 28, 2022 19:00 - 35 minutes - 24.6 MB

Breana Kiser of North Dakota State Extension, and Jessie Hadfield, of Utah State University Extension, share the innovative youth programs they have led to foster interest in the next generation of horse enthusiasts.  We talk about how volunteers can get involved, and share resources to provide adult leaders with assistance in educating young people.  So if you have thought of giving back to the horse industry you love, this podcast is for you. For more information on resources for adult ho...

Winter Prepping: The story of not being the grasshopper

September 29, 2022 20:00 - 32 minutes - 22.2 MB

As the leaves begin to turn color and the ponies start to get fuzzy, it is time for horse owners to think about winter preparation. Dr. Bob Coleman, from the University of Kentucky,  outlines what you should be doing to not get caught in the cold!

Protecting Pastures: The Story of how to keep your pastures alive when the weather doesn't cooperate

September 16, 2022 15:00 - 28 minutes - 19.7 MB

Laura Kenney, a member of the Equine Extension Team at Penn State University, joins us to discuss practical strategies to keep pastures alive during droughts and floods. We discuss how to handle weeds that still seem to survive and thrive, the potential use of cover crops, and how to approach renovation if needed. For more information on pasture management, enroll in Managing Pastures for Horses, a short course offered by Extension Horses

Supplements 4: The story of doing your research

September 06, 2022 20:00 - 29 minutes - 20.6 MB

Dr. Carey Williams of Rutgers University joins us for the finale of our supplement series.  We talk about how horse owners can better do their own research, great websites and resources in helping horse owners to make decisions, and do some fun impromptu math! Does my horse need a supplement: By Dr. Carey Williams Rate my horse supplement Don't forget to rate our podcast!  And send questions to [email protected]

Old Horses: The story of keeping our veterans going

August 22, 2022 13:00 - 50 minutes - 34.8 MB

Dr. Dianne McFarlane, department head of Large Animal Clinical Sciences at the University of Florida, and expert in aging, shares some tips and tricks to keep the old horses feeling young.  As proper care can greatly extend the useful lifespan of a horse, there is no idea to "send them out to pasture" too soon. 

Feedstuffs: The Story of why we feed what we feed

August 02, 2022 01:00 - 41 minutes - 28.3 MB

Dr. Randy Raub, Director of nutrition and research for Kent Feeds, joins us to talk about what goes into a horse feed, and why certain ingredients are included.  Why do we feed soybean meal, what the heck are wheat midds, and why feathers aren’t for horses!

Equine Assisted Services: The Story of Getting the Terms Right!

July 20, 2022 14:00 - 36 minutes - 25.2 MB

Lissa Pohl, owner of The Engagement Quotient, a company which creates leadership skills in humans through the use of horses, clears up all of the terminology related to the use of horses in aiding humans.  She is a member of a working group which created a document to clarify and define the various terms.  So what is in versus what is out?  Equine assisted services – EAS, versus equine assisted therapy.  So get up to speed and learn what the professionals are using: Equine Assisted Learning,...

Feeding on a budget: The story how something as simple as LESS might be the answer

June 04, 2022 14:00 - 43 minutes - 30.3 MB

Dr. Bob Coleman, from the University of Kentucky, shares some practical tips for horse owners facing some budget squeezes on their feed bill.  We talk about being honest about your feeding program, really knowing what you are providing, and some alternatives if hay is in short supply. For more information: Alternative Feedstuffs Forage substitutes for horses

Disease Outbreak: The story of one horse and three diseases

May 20, 2022 04:00 - 27 minutes - 18.7 MB

Dr. Jennie Ivey, Equine Extension Specialist at the University of Tennessee, shares the real story of how a simple research project resulted in a disease outbreak.  Dr. Ivey was studying best practices of refeeding starved horses and took on a bit more than she bet on for this project, when horses they had purchased at auction succumbed to three diseases all at once. Learn how to keep your horses safe, and why biosecurity is so important, especially in horses with compromised immune systems...

Barn Fires: The story of 40 show horses and a burning barn

May 10, 2022 04:00 - 26 minutes - 18.1 MB

Abby Schuft, extension educator and PhD candidate in Animal Biosecurity from the University of Minnesota, shares her real story of working for an American Saddlebred show barn when disaster struck.  Abby's recounts the days events and lessons learned from every horse owner's worst nightmare. For more information on barn fire prevention: Fire Safety in Horse Stables - Penn State Extension Fire Prevention Measures for Equine Facilities Equine Guelph Fire Prevention Questions? email us at ...

Fire Prevention: The story of 41 years of fire service in the heart of horse country

April 26, 2022 16:00 - 33 minutes - 23.3 MB

In a continuation of our stories of barn fire prevention, Assistant Fire Chief James Kanavy shares insights in what his 41 years of fire service in the heart of horse country has taught. We discuss best practices for choosing bucket heaters, extension cords and even light bulbs!  We talk a bit of horse behavior, and why you should probably leave the barn door closed. This is invaluable advice for anyone that owns or manages a barn, as we will learn in upcoming episodes, barn fires can happe...

Supplements 3: The story of anti-oxidants, how much and when to give!

April 15, 2022 16:00 - 36 minutes - 25 MB

In the third installment of our supplement series, Dr. Carey Williams shares her deep knowledge of her specialty - anti-oxidants.  We learn what exactly constitutes an anti-oxidant, what components of feed act as anti-oxidants, and how to choose the right one for your horse. We even get pretty detailed on amounts and needs for specific  horses! Does my horse need a supplement: By Dr. Carey Williams Don't forget to rate our podcast!  And send questions to [email protected]