Podcast cover

Healing Horses with Elisha

Elisha Edwards
67 episodes   Last Updated: Apr 22, 25
A unique podcast solely dedicated to the natural horse. The information covered in each episode is based on thousands of success cases using natural health care,  practical wisdom, and science. Learn what horses need to live their best lives – body, mind, and spirit – and how diet, nutritional therapy, natural remedies, and holistic horse-keeping can work for your horse on all levels. Listen in to equip yourself with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions for your horse’s health with less stress, overwhelm, and confusion.

Episodes

As spring approaches, many horse owners become concerned about what the grass returning could mean for their more sugar-sensitive horses, as those horses usually have a history of metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, PPID, PSSM, laminitis, and hoof problems. Managing sugar intake and keeping their hooves healthy is the key to avoiding serious setbacks in sugar-sensitive horses. So, in this episode, I share some simple and effective strategies for supporting horses and managing their sugar levels as they go back onto grass.Supporting the Transition to GrassSpring grass can be challenging for horses with metabolic issues or a history of laminitis. Owners must do all they can to avoid setbacks in those horses while supporting their natural foraging instincts.Why Grass Can Be a ProblemFresh grass is low in fiber and high in rapidly digestible carbohydrates, which can cause insulin spikes in sugar-sensitive horses. The lack of fiber and abrupt dietary change can also impact gut health, leading to leaky gut and cecal acidosis.Start SlowlyThe transition from hay to grass should be gradual, and sugar-sensitive horses should not be allowed to binge on grass after long winters off-pasture. Even a 10-minute binge can trigger symptoms in sensitive horses, so pay attention to early warning signs like swelling, fatigue, or hoof soreness.Always Offer Hay with GrassProviding low-sugar hay alongside grazing reduces the glycemic impact and helps regulate blood sugar. Strategically placing hay around the pasture will encourage movement and help manage total carbohydrate intake.Timing Matters Grass sugar levels change throughout the day. Mornings, especially between 5 and 7 a.m., is the safest time for horses to graze, as photosynthesis has not yet caused sugar levels to spike.Feeding Strategies Feeding horses a fiber-rich, balanced mash before turning them out can increase their satiety and blunt insulin spikes. That helps manage metabolic responses and makes grazing less risky.Monitor and AdjustLook out for swelling in the sheath, puffy eyes, a laminitis stance, or general fatigue, as those indicate that the horse is reactive to sugar. Pull the horse off the grass immediately should any of those symptoms appear.Gut HealthHealthy gut flora is essential, especially during feed changes. Give your horse a high-quality probiotic and add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to their feed daily to support digestion and help regulate blood sugar.Consistent Feeding ProgramsFollowing a well-balanced feeding program, like those in my Equine Metabolic Syndrome course, can support insulin regulation and prevent problems during seasonal transitions.BalanceEntirely restricting grass may increase stress and reduce the quality of life of horses. The aim is to build tolerance and support health so the horse can eventually enjoy some natural forage safely.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome NaturallyRegister for my self-paced course, Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome...
Today, we share seven key pointers to help you, as a horse owner, plan a parasite control program for your horse. In this episode, you will learn how to formulate a parasite program and how to prepare your horse for it. We will also explain how to schedule your program effectively and responsibly.Understanding the Role of Parasites in Equine HealthParasites can affect the health of horses significantly, and they can worsen problems in horses with ulcers, digestive issues, or chronic colic. So, owners should tailor their parasite management to suit the history and needs of each horse.Fecal Testing: A Useful but Limited ToolEven though fecal tests are helpful to monitor parasite loads, they should not be relied upon, as they do not detect every type of parasite, and they may not be effective when the parasites are in certain life stages or encysted in the gut lining. Living environments, pasture management, and herd dynamics can influence parasite exposure and infection risk. So, fecal testing should be part of a broader monitoring system that includes seasonal timing, observation of symptoms, and an understanding of the regional parasite risks.The Limitations of Natural DewormersChemical dewormers are necessary when dealing with high parasite loads, as although herbs and homeopathic remedies can support intestinal health and help preventinfestations, they cannot be relied on for treating active infections. Using only herbs in such cases may lead to severe or irreversible damage.The Dangers of Over-DewormingOverusing chemical dewormers could lead to parasite resistance and damage the horse's microbiome. Deworming too often or using the same chemical repeatedly allows the parasites to adapt and reduces the effectiveness of the deworming treatments. It could also add to the growing issue of parasite resistance across all animal species.Deworming StrategicallyStrategic deworming supports equine health and helps to reduce dewormer resistance in parasites. Strategic deworming means considering the parasite risk of your horse rather than relying on a fixed schedule, reducing the risk of over-deworming, and allowing the deworming drugs to remain effective. Factors like the age of the horse, its health status, pasture conditions, seasonal parasite patterns, and regional risks should all inform your deworming decisions.Handling Deworming Challenges In cases where horses are averse to oral administration of dewormers, training is the answer. Owners can work with trainers or use temporary strategies like mixing dewormers with foods the horse enjoys.When Is the Best Time to Deworm?To time deworming treatments, owners should consider seasonal parasite activity and fecal egg count results. In temperate climates, deworming in late winter or early spring helps reduce pasture contamination before peak parasite transmission in late summer and early fall. Avoid treating during extreme heat or cold when parasites are less active. Some owners prefer to deworm just before or after the full moon, but there is no scientific evidence proving the effectiveness of that.Strengthening the Hindgut and Immune SystemA healthy gut creates an environment less hospitable to parasites. Supporting digestive immunity with good nutrition and high-quality probiotics helps fortify horses, supports their overall health, and reduces their susceptibility to infestations.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new...
This week, we are following up on last week’s topic about the adverse effects of parasites on our horses by talking about fecal egg counts.As horse owners, it is essential to understand what fecal egg counts are, the valuable information they provide, and how to use those insights to evaluate and assess parasite control strategies for your horse or, in some cases, an entire herd.What is a Fecal Egg Count?A fecal egg count is a diagnostic test, usually performed by veterinary clinics, to identify the presence and number of parasite eggs in a horse’s manure. It provides critical information for understanding the intestinal immunity of horses and creating parasite control strategies.Why Fecal Egg Counts MatterKnowing the shedding status of their horses helps owners tailor a targeted and effective parasite control plan. Strongyles, the most prevalent equine parasite, are a big concern for equine health due to their resistance to deworming treatments. Fecal egg counts guide deworming practices and help prevent the overuse of chemical dewormers.Timing and AccuracyFecal testing is usually done in the spring and fall to align with parasite life cycles. In the fall, parasites often go into hibernation and stop shedding eggs. So spring, when eggs get actively shed, is a far better time to assess parasite load. Relying on a single test can be misleading, whereas multiple tests over time can provide more accurate insights.Parasites Not Detected by Fecal TestsFecal egg counts do not detect all parasites as some go through life stages where they do not shed any eggs. So, owners must also consider regional risks and symptoms when planning a parasite control strategy for their horses.Parasite Risk FactorsParasites exploit weak immune systems, so immunity is a key factor for susceptibility. The immature immune systems of young horses make them particularly vulnerable, and older horses may also be at risk due to declining health. Domesticated horses, living in controlled environments, are often at greater risk than wild horses as they have less natural resistance and more exposure.Holistic Parasite ManagementEffective parasite management often requires more than just deworming. Supporting horse's immune systems, microbiomes, and overall health can make the internal environment less hospitable to parasites. A strategic approach should include nutrition, environment, and individualized care for reducing egg counts and building long-term resilience.Hidden SymptomsHorses can look healthy and still carry a high parasite load. So, even though fecal egg counts provide a baseline, it is still essential to evaluate the overall health of each horse.Horses with Chronic Health ConditionsParasites can exacerbate any issues that horses with chronic health conditions may have. High parasite loads can cause ulcers, inflammation, and poor nutrient absorption. Addressing parasites is a top priority in those cases, as the immune system cannot recover until that burden gets reduced.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome NaturallyRegister for...
As spring approaches, it is time to start thinking about parasite management. Parasites are a complicated topic that often gets oversimplified when searching for information. A holistic approach always considers the intestinal immunity of each horse, as that varies from horse to horse. However, parasite management tends to become more complex in herd environments where group dynamics play a role.The Impact of Parasites on Horse HealthParasites can have widespread effects on a horse’s body. They contribute to inflammation, disrupt the nervous system, and place stress on multiple organs. Horses with allergies are particularly susceptible because their immune systems are overactive, making it harder to manage infections. If a calm horse suddenly becomes anxious or unmanageable, parasites could be a hidden factor.Parasites and UlcersWhen horses struggle with digestive issues, an unresolved parasite infection can complicate their recovery. So, it is essential to address parasites first, as parasites, especially encysted strongyles, damage the intestinal lining, which could exacerbate or trigger ulcers.The Importance of Early and Proper TreatmentPromptly addressing parasites is essential for preventing long-term health damage to your horse. Horses with allergies or ulcers are particularly vulnerable, as parasites tend to exacerbate their symptoms. Parasite treatments should be specific to the condition of each horse. It is also essential to consider the possible effects of parasite die-off with older or weaker horses, and veterinary guidance may be needed.The Effectiveness of Herbal TreatmentsWhile herbs have some anti-parasitic properties, they cannot be relied on to eliminate a significant infestation, as fecal testing has shown that herbal remedies alone do not effectively reduce parasite counts. Chemical dewormers are the most effective option for controlling parasites, especially in high-load cases.Managing Parasite ResistanceOveruse and improper use of dewormers can cause parasite resistance, making it harder to eliminate infections. Even when treated, some horses still carry high parasite loads, and parasites can mutate to withstand certain chemicals. Rotating dewormers and strategically targeting different life stages of parasites are essential strategies for long-term parasite management.Key Takeaways for Responsible Parasite ControlA strategic, science-based approach to parasite management is crucial. Regular fecal egg counts can help track parasite levels, and a well-planned deworming schedule prevents resistance from developing. Supporting the microbiome with good nutrition will also help in building overall resilience against infections.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome NaturallyRegister for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now.Mentioned in this episode:Learn the 4 Steps to Resolving Metabolic Syndrome NaturallySign up for the FREE masterclass today!Masterclass
One of the most common mistakes horse owners tend to make is opting for supplements before evaluating their horse’s diet. Today, we are taking a closer look at supplements and whether or not they are necessary for horse health. Diet First, Supplements SecondNo supplement will fully correct the underlying issue if a horse is fed an unbalanced diet. Nutritional deficiencies, toxicities, and stress often occur due to poor feeding practices. So, horse owners should consider the diet before adding supplements for their horses, and get a hay analysis to uncover any nutritional gaps, as metabolic issues or insulin resistance often improve after simply adjusting the diet.A Holistic Approach to SupplementingHorses do not have the same diverse foraging options of the wild in domestic settings. So, supplements may be necessary in many cases. Nutritional therapy, using targeted nutrients to support healing and prevent diseases, can be a powerful tool for overcoming many equine health issues.Choose High-Quality, Bioavailable SupplementsMany supplements contain cheap fillers, poorly absorbed forms of minerals, or ingredients that may even exacerbate any existing health issues. It is essential to select supplements with bioavailable ingredients that the horses can effectively utilize. Source only high-quality products with minimal additives for maximum effectiveness. Hair tissue mineral analysis can also offer valuable insights into deficiencies and imbalances that standard blood work may not detect.Avoid Over-SupplementationMany horse owners fall into the trap of adding multiple supplements without a clear strategy. Over-supplementation can create imbalances, cause nutrient competition, and lead to unnecessary expenses. A well-planned supplement regimen should be based on the needs of each horse to ensure that every ingredient complements rather than conflicts with their overall nutritional plan.ConclusionSupplements can be beneficial but are not always the solution for horse health issues. A well-balanced diet should always come first. Supplements should be targeted tools for correcting deficiencies and supporting recovery. By selecting high-quality, bioavailable ingredients and avoiding unnecessary additives, horse owners can maximize the benefits of supplementation and ensure their horses receive optimal nutrition.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome NaturallyRegister for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now.Mentioned in this episode:Learn the 4 Steps to Resolving Metabolic Syndrome NaturallySign up for the FREE masterclass today!Masterclass
Today, we are bringing you a rerun of Episode 16. This episode explores alfalfa, a highly nutritious feed that often leaves horse owners uncertain due to the many conflicting opinions on its proper use and ideal feeding amounts.Join us as we tackle the ins and outs of incorporating alfalfa into your horse's diet and debunk some of the common misconceptions surrounding it.Diverse Uses of AlfalfaHorse owners can use alfalfa for many different purposes. Some use it to provide extra calories during the winter, while others use it to help their horses gain weight. Some owners like to use alfalfa as a source of energy to enhance a horse’s performance and contribute to muscle building. Others claim that using alfalfa prevents issues like chronic diarrhea and fecal water syndrome in their horses.The Equine MicrobiomeHorses get their energy from fermenting fiber. Alfalfa may help with issues like chronic diarrhea or fecal water syndrome because it impacts the tiny organisms in the microbial populations of the hindgut. I spoke about the equine microbiome in Episode 10, so you can go back and listen to that episode to refresh your memory if you need to.Toxicity IssuesDiets high in alfalfa can lead to potential feed toxicity issues, like leaky gut, due to the shift in microbial populations and increased body acidity caused by those diets. You need to know the horse's history and monitor the amount and duration of alfalfa feeding to avoid complications. Understanding Alfalfa as a ForageContrary to common belief, alfalfa is a legume and is not part of the grass family, a difference that impacts its macronutrient composition. With a protein content ranging from 14 percent to 25 percent, alfalfa can be a valuable supplement for horses. It does contain a high lignin content, making it less digestible and less efficient than grass as an energy source.Alfalfa as a Protein SupplementDespite its limitations as an energy source, alfalfa shines as a protein supplement for horses. Horses with protein deficiencies or higher protein requirements, such as young horses, rescue horses, or seniors, can benefit from alfalfa supplementation. For older horses with slower metabolic rates, alfalfa can be particularly helpful in meeting their nutritional needs.In ConclusionWhile alfalfa may have some limitations and not necessarily work as a replacement for grass, it can still be a valuable supplement for horses as it contains essential nutrients, like protein in particular. By learning about the role of alfalfa and understanding its benefits, horse owners can make informed decisions on incorporating alfalfa effectively into the diets of their equine companions.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome NaturallyRegister for Resolving Equine Metabolic Syndrome Naturally, now.Mentioned in this episode:Learn the 4 Steps to Resolving Metabolic Syndrome NaturallySign up for the FREE masterclass today!Masterclass
The adrenal glands play a crucial role in keeping horses healthy and resilient.My recent hands-on experience with horse dissections highlighted the importance of the adrenal glands for metabolism, hormone regulation, and stress response in horses. When horse owners learn how the adrenal glands work and how chronic stress affects them, they can become far more effective in supporting the health and well-being of their horses.The Role of the Adrenal GlandsThe adrenal glands produce cortisol, ACTH, and DHEA, which regulate energy, influence immune function, and affect the overall hormone balance in horses. Horses are prey animals, so they tend to be on high alert. That means their adrenal glands are often working overtime. When a horse is under constant stress from its environment, emotions, or physical strain, it can lead to adrenal fatigue, affecting everything from metabolism to immune function.Hormonal Imbalances and Their EffectsHorses with metabolic issues like PPID or insulin resistance often have adrenal dysfunction. High cortisol levels can lead to tissue breakdown, slow healing, and weaken the immune system. The adrenals also play a role in sex hormone production, as DHEA influences testosterone and estrogen levels. So adrenal health can affect everything, including the reproductive cycle of mares and the hormone balance of geldings. Understanding those connections helps horse owners make better health decisions.The Impact of Chronic Inflammation and StressMany horses deal with low-grade inflammation from environmental toxins, poor diet, or chronic illness. With those issues, the adrenal glands keep pumping out cortisol, which, over time, can wear them out. When adrenal function drops, the pituitary gland produces more ACTH, which can contribute to metabolic disorders. To manage that, owners must reduce external stressors, like inadequate stable conditions and poor handling techniques, and internal stressors, such as diet and gut health.Nutritional and Holistic SupportSupporting adrenal health in horses requires a combination of proper nutrition, stress reduction, and careful hormone management. Horses naturally produce vitamin C, but in times of stress, they may require supplementation. Other vital nutrients include minerals that help regulate adrenal function. Maintaining a balanced diet that promotes gut health can also reduce overall stress on the body, and providing horses with an environment that meets their instinctual needs for freedom, forage, and friendship is vital for reducing chronic stress.Recognizing the Signs and Taking ActionAs research into equine adrenal health progresses, more vets and equine professionals recognize the signs of adrenal insufficiency. Symptoms like persistent fatigue, poor coat quality, muscle wasting, and metabolic imbalances can indicate underlying adrenal stress. By taking a proactive approach to adrenal support through dietary improvements, environmental enrichment, and holistic care, owners can help prevent long-term health complications in their horses.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Free Webinar Masterclass: Four Steps to Solving Equine Metabolic Syndrome NaturallyRegister for Resolving Equine Metabolic...
Dedicated owners want the best for their equine companions. However, understanding what is going on with a horse’s health can sometimes be puzzling.Creating a health profile for horses is a simple yet powerful tool to give owners deeper insight into the overall well-being of their horses. Writing their health history down on paper helps owners understand what is and is not working and how their diet, stress, or past issues might influence their condition, making it easier to fine-tune their care. Having a clear record also allows owners to spot trends over time, helping them make more informed health decisions for their horses.What to Include in a Health ProfileBegin by documenting all major health events, including illnesses, injuries, emotional upheavals, and changes in diet or living conditions. Dates and ages matter as events like a severe infection or a drastic diet shift could have long-lasting effects. It is also important to note any lifestyle changes, like moving to a new barn or losing a companion, as those could impact the horse's physical and emotional health.Identifying Root Causes of Health IssuesWhen assessing health problems, I focus on three primary causes: toxicity, stress, and nutrient deficiencies. By categorizing past and current health issues within those areas, you can start to see trends. Tracking those factors helps you understand the root cause of ongoing health struggles and make targeted changes.Creating a Healing StrategyAfter compiling their health history, the next step is identifying key themes. I use a healing layer approach, categorizing issues by organ systems like digestive health, immune function, hormonal balance, etc. If, for example, a horse repeatedly struggles with skin conditions, we may need to focus on immune support and detoxification rather than just treating surface symptoms. This method helps ensure that interventions are specific, effective, and sustainable.Fine-Tuning Diet and SupplementsWith a well-documented health profile, you can make smarter choices about nutrition and supplementation. Instead of throwing every possible remedy at the problem, you can tailor your approach based on your horse's needs. Some horses thrive with diet adjustments alone, while others require targeted supplementation or homeopathic remedies. The goal is to avoid wasting time, money, and energy on unnecessary treatments and focus instead on what will benefit your horse.Links and resources:Connect with Elisha Edwards on her website Join my email list to be notified about new podcast releases and upcoming webinars.Register for Healing Horses their Way 2025, now.
We are officially opening enrollment for my signature program, Healing Horses Their Way 2025, which I was proud to launch in 2018!Every year, from late November to early December, we roll up our sleeves, set the dates, map out the plan, and fine-tune the details for the year ahead.Join me today for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how we structure the program, what you will learn, the rollout date, and all the incredible benefits you can expect!Overview of the ProgramThis signature program has been a favorite among horse owners and practitioners since it launched in 2018. It has been designed to give you a strong foundation in holistic horse care and is packed with practical, easy-to-understand information to help you make the best choices for a healthy and happy horse. Updated in 2020 with even more resources, it is a hands-on, flexible learning experience perfect for horse lovers at any level.A Supportive Global CommunityCaring for horses can feel like a solo adventure sometimes, especially if you live in a remote area. This course connects you with a worldwide community of like-minded people who share your passion. You will swap stories, share insights, and learn how horse care challenges are surprisingly universal, no matter where you are.How the Course WorksThe course spans 12 weeks and includes nine in-depth modules with a few pause weeks to allow you to work through the material at your own pace. Each module builds on the last, with practical exercises you can apply to any horse.A Holistic MindsetThe course starts by helping you view horse health from a new perspective. You will learn to look at the history of a horse, spot patterns, and connect the dots between symptoms and underlying issues. It is a whole-horse approach that considers mental, physical, emotional, and even spiritual health, giving you a deep understanding of how the equine body works and reacts to care.Practical Horse CareIn modules two and three, we dive into the fundamental aspects of anatomy, physiology, and diet. You will learn how to use food as medicine, tailoring the diet to address imbalances, intolerances, or allergies. By the end, you will know how to customize a feeding plan to meet the unique requirements of your horse. Advanced Tools for HealthWe also explore therapeutic nutrition, herbs, and homeopathy. You will learn to use vitamins, minerals, and natural remedies to tackle specific health challenges. These modules are all broken down into simple and easy-to-apply, actionable steps.Tackling Common ProblemsIn the later modules, we get into the nitty-gritty of hoof health, toxins, and parasites. You will learn how to spot common hoof issues, like thrush or long toes, and how to address them naturally. You will also learn strategies to minimize exposure to toxins and manage parasites in ways that keep your horse feeling their best.Real-Life SolutionsOne of the highlights of this course is the final module, which has natural protocols for over 30 specific health issues. When you reach this point, you will have all the tools you need to create a personalized care program for your horse. You will also know how to track your horse's progress and adjust when necessary.Flexible and Easy to FollowThe course is structured to fit into your busy life. The materials are released weekly, and there are live classes every Tuesday evening (with recordings if you cannot make it). There is also a private Facebook group where you can get extra support and connect with other participants, and quizzes you can complete along the way, and you will earn a certificate at the end.Ready to Join?Registration...
Boarding horses can be a solution for owners who do not have enough space or time for full-time care. However, owners often struggle with losing control over aspects like feeding, turnout, and herd dynamics.Finding a balance between the horse’s needs and how the boarding facility gets run can be difficult, but with the right approach, owners can set things up to work for themselves, the facility, and their horses. Choosing the Best Available OptionIn areas where boarding facilities are limited, owners may have to go with the best available option rather than finding an ideal one. In those situations, owners should prioritize the key needs of their horse and aim for a setup that allows them to feel confident the horse is well cared for when they are not there.Forage, Freedom, and FriendshipA horse’s welfare depends on access to forage, freedom of movement, and social interaction. A boarding facility that does not provide frequent forage feedings can contribute to stress, ulcers, and digestive issues. Stall Time and IsolationExtended stall confinement can lead to stress and behavioral issues, as horses need to move, graze, and socialize. When those needs go unmet, frustration builds. Solutions like increased turnout and exercise can help alleviate that stress and prevent any dangerous situations from arising.Finding Harmony for You and Your HorseCreating a balanced environment for horses is crucial, as they are sensitive to the energies around them. So, owners must be patient and adopt a positive mindset when looking for the right boarding facility. The Emotional Impact of Boarding ConflictsTension often arises between horse owners and boarding facility management. Owners want the best for their horses and may feel frustrated if their needs are not fully met, and boarding facilities have to consider their costs and the availability of their staff while treating all boarders fairly. Even though both perspectives are valid, unresolved frustration may lead to ongoing conflict.How Stress Affects HorsesHorses are highly attuned to human emotions, and if their owner carries stress, tension, or frustration, they feel it too. Subtle physical signs like tight shoulders, restricted movement, or tension in their owners can influence how a horse perceives its surroundings, and a stressful environment can negatively impact its ability to heal and thrive.Managing Conflict and CommunicationClear communication is the key to reducing frustration. Owners should express their horse’s needs openly while also understanding the limitations of the facility. Likewise, boarding facilities should be upfront about what they can and cannot provide. Honest communication can prevent misunderstandings and foster a far more cooperative atmosphere.Creating a Low-Stress Environment for HorsesIn less-than-ideal boarding situations, small changes can improve a horse’s well-being. Options like increased turnout, alternative hay choices, or adjusted pen arrangements can make a significant difference. The goal is to create a minimally stressful environment that allows the horse to feel safe and supported.Taking Responsibility and Choosing Battles WiselyOwners who board their horses must take responsibility for the needs of the horse while recognizing that perfection is not always possible. Instead of getting stuck in frustration, they should focus on making the most impactful changes they can. Whether it is improving socialization opportunities, reducing stall time, or ensuring better food access, those small adjustments can go a long way in enhancing the quality of life of a horse.The Bigger Picture: Patience and AdaptationNo...