We are what we eat...
We are increasingly aware that ultra processed food is bad for us and that we should eat seasonal, fresh and local food. But what about our horses? They too will have reduced health when they have ultra processed food.
Why keeping sugar and starch levels low is not just advised for Laminitics
Owners of metabolic horses and ponies (those with EMS, IR, ID or PPID]) and those prone to laminitis, are well versed in keeping the diet low in sugar and starch. Most will work towards a cut off of 10% combined sugar and starch, often referred to as the Non-Structural Carbohydrate or NSC level.
What is sainfoin?
We are frequently asked, “What is Sainfoin?’ - whether it be out of interest’s sake, having come across it on our website, heard it mentioned on BBC Countryfile, or whether it has been specifically recommended for your horse. Sainfoin offers a wealth of benefits and is a unique forage type we are very proud to champion here at Simple System.
Rain after drought, what happens to your horse's grass
Rain coming after a prolonged dry spell can be a shock, welcome or otherwise. The grass will readily welcome the rain and with decent rainfall, the grass reawakens and begins to grow again – sometimes very rapidly.
Sainfoin - a BBC Countryfile favourite forage?
For the second consecutive Sunday, presenter Adam Henson has discussed the use of sainfoin during Countryfile. Those that know Simple System well, know that sainfoin is one of our favourite forages for horses - and that we offer an extensive range of sainfoin feeds.
Lack of rain in the UK and how this can affect horses
Long, hot, dry weather may be wonderful for us during our leisure time, but the driest spring on record has had some serious implications for all connected with the land - including our horses. The dry spell looks likely to continue into drought. Read on to see how you can help manage your horse during this time.
Feeding the broodmare and foal
''Feed the mare to feed the foal'' - wise words from many an experienced breeder. In nature, foals would usually be born in the spring - the time of year where the grazing offers the most nutrition. In the UK, many breeders try to emulate this in order to give their foals the best possible start.
Parasites in Horses - Understanding Worms
With anthelmintic resistance on the rise, horse owners worry about parasitic worms in their horses and most of us have a variety of strategies to control them. If we can understand the worms’ life cycle, we can be more effective at managing them.
Dry ground, short grazing and an increased risk of sand colic
Independant equine vet, Dr Anna Michelle (Shelley) Cook, of Little Rock Equine Vets in Staffordshire, tells us more about sand colic in horses, ponies and donkeys, and importantly, how feeding can help prevent it.
Vaccinating against strangles - a video diary from Simple Systems Nutrition Manager
Strangles is the UK's most common infectious equine disease. This week is Strangles Awareness Week (SAW) and Simple System's Nutrition Manager, Ellen, along with her rescue horse, Redwings Indigo, are proud campaign ambassadors.