Upcoming events
eclectic horseman: the equine microbiome
"...the gut microbiome is studied so much for reasons other than sample abundance. The gut impacts the immune system, brain function, nutrient absorption, and drug metabolism. The stability of the gastrointestinal tract biota can be markedly disrupted by diet, particularly. Sudden ingestion of high starch feeds can lead to an over-proliferation of lactic acid bacteria in the hindgut (thereby reducing overall microbial diversity), which has been linked to colic and laminitis. Some studies suggest that a very high carbohydrate diet leads to some starches overstepping the chemical and mechanical digestion processes of the foregut, which leads to more entering the hindgut where those bacteria produce lactic acid. This lowers the pH, hindering the growth of acid-intolerant beneficial bacteria."
Are you interested in learning more about how the microbiome affects your horses behavior and health? Would you like to know more about how we can be responsible stewards for antibiotic usage? Then you should read my upcoming article in Eclectic Horseman Magazine, and sign up for the online class on April 24th. Everyone welcome!
https://eclectic-horseman.com/mercantile/eclectic-classroom/live-classes/eclectic-classroom-the-equine-microbiome-and-the-use-of-antibiotics-with-siobhan-watkins-ph-d/
Eclectic Horseman: Equine Endocrinology Challenges with Siobhan Watkins, Ph.D
This class will provide an overview of the equine endocrine system, exploring its vital role in horse health.
Eclectic Horseman: Caring for Your Geriatric Horse with Siobhan Watkins, Ph.D
Siobhan Watkins, Ph.D. will be authoring a series of articles in the coming year that aim to gather up and translate some of the recent advances in our understanding of equine science, and explore how we might apply this information to our own equestrian practices.
The first topic is effective and compassionate care of the geriatric horse. (Article to appear in Issue No.141 Jan/Feb 2025 issue of Eclectic Horseman) Due to extraordinary advances in veterinary medicine, equine nutrition, genetics, and disease prevention, as well as improved general care, our horses are living longer. This online seminar, will describe some of the most recent research in senior horses and dental issues, arthritis, nutrition, and end of life considerations.
biomechanics through bodywork: the head, neck and poll
Join us for this inclusive, laid-back introduction to proprioception and a closer look at the head, neck and poll. This series interweaves human and equine proprioceptive exercises to support healthy collaboration and conditioning between horse and rider. All sessions will include unmounted and optional mounted work, and all levels, disciplines, and breeds are welcome!
Biomechanics through bodywork: the thoracic sling
Join us for this inclusive, laid-back introduction to proprioception and a closer look at the thoracic sling - vital to your horse’s balance and movement! This series interweaves human and equine proprioceptive exercises to support healthy collaboration and conditioning between horse and rider. All sessions will include unmounted and optional mounted work, and all levels, disciplines, and breeds are welcome!
Biomechanics through bodywork: the equine spine
Join us for this inclusive, laid-back introduction to proprioception and a closer look at the equine back and spine. This series interweaves human and equine proprioceptive exercises to support healthy collaboration and conditioning between horse and rider. All sessions will include unmounted and optional mounted work, and all levels, disciplines, and breeds are welcome!
Biomechanics through bodywork: the equine iliopsoas muscle group
Join us for this inclusive, laid-back introduction to proprioception and a closer look at the equine pelvic and psoas muscles. This series interweaves human and equine proprioceptive exercises to support healthy collaboration and conditioning between horse and rider. All sessions will include unmounted and optional mounted work, and all levels, disciplines, and breeds are welcome!