Hale and Hearty Horses

Dr. Rebecca sits down with Lisa Dickman, KWPN breeder and founder of Kaneques Farm, to explore the art and science of raising exceptional sport horses. From mare nutrition during pregnancy to foal handling, hoof development, and the critical role of patience, Lisa shares hard-won lessons from over 15 years of breeding success — including inspection champions and horses competing at the Grand Prix level. Whether you're a first-time breeder or experienced horse person, this episode is packed with practical wisdom on setting young horses up for long-term health and success. Topics covered:Mare health & body condition before breedingNutrition during all three trimestersManaging foal calorie intake & preventing OCDEarly foal handling & establishing mannersHoof care & farrier schedules for growing horsesNature vs. nurture in foal behaviorWhen to intervene vs. let time do its work🔗 Find Lisa: kanequesfarm.com | Facebook: Lisa Dickman#HorseBreeding #KWPNHorse #FoalCare #SportHorse #DressageHorse #EquineNutrition #HorseFarm #YoungHorses #KanequesFarm #FoalDevelopment #HorseHealth #EquineHealth #HorseRaising #Dressage #HorsePodcast #BreedingHorses #MareCare #EquineManagement #HorseLife #HorseCommunity

This episode explains why vitamin E is a critical nutrient for equine muscle and nervous system health and why deficiency is increasingly common in modern management. It covers how vitamin E functions as a fat-soluble antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, especially in metabolically active tissues like muscles and nerves. The script highlights that fresh pasture (alpha-tocopherol) is the best natural source, while vitamin E degrades rapidly in hay over time, putting stalled, dry-lot, and limited-turnout horses at risk. It discusses deficiency links to neurologic and muscle issues including ENAD/EDM in young horses and EMND in adults, and outlines supplementation basics: natural D-alpha tocopherol vs synthetic DL forms, water-dispersible options, common dosing ranges, and the role of blood testing (targeting roughly 2–4 µg/mL, often ~3).00:00 Why Vitamin E Matters00:42 Oxidative Stress Basics02:28 Free Radicals in Metabolism04:53 Vitamin E Protects Muscles Nerves05:27 Natural Sources Pasture vs Hay07:16 Neurologic Disease ENAD EDM09:23 Adult Signs and EMND10:07 Choosing a Supplement Form11:36 Dosing Safety and Blood Tests14:11 Key Takeaways and Products15:32 Wrap Up

Discover how sound therapy actually works for horses—backed by science, not woo. In this episode, equine health expert Rebecca Douglass explains the real mechanisms behind tuning forks, vibration therapy, and frequency-based tools.Learn how sound influences: • Nervous system regulation and parasympathetic response • Fascia, muscle tension, and pain thresholds • Acupuncture points and tissue healing • Movement patterns and structural adaptationPerfect for horse owners who've wondered "how could sound possibly help my horse?" This evidence-based approach shows when sound therapy is most effective—for high-tension horses, chronic guarding, pain sensitization, and movement issues that don't respond to traditional bodywork.Part of the Foundation Series on holistic equine medicine, covering chiropractic, osteopathy, acupuncture, myofascial work, and Chinese medicine principles.Join the Hale and Hearty Horse Collective: haleheartyhorses.com/collective#HorseHealth #SoundHealing #HolisticHorseCare #EquineWellness #HorseCare #EquinePodcast #HorseOwners #SoundTherapy #HolisticHealing

Chiropractic and osteopathy are two of the most talked about—yet misunderstood—holistic therapies in the equine world. In this episode, we demystify both disciplines and explain what they're actually designed to address, how they work, and when they truly make a difference for your horse.You'll learn the key differences between chiropractic (joint-focused, rapid changes in motion and reflex control) and osteopathy (system-based, global integration and coordination), what realistic results look like from each approach, and how they compare to other bodywork modalities like myofascial release and Chinese medicine.Whether you're considering these therapies for stiffness, asymmetry, chronic compensation patterns, or post-injury recovery, this episode gives you a clear framework to decide when they're worth your time, money, and trust—and when they're not the right tool for the job.If you’re interested in understanding horse health more clearly and moving beyond fragmented advice, you can learn more at Hale and Hearty Horses. It’s where I share a whole-horse way of thinking that helps complex issues actually make sense.If you want to keep exploring this way of thinking, the Hale & Hearty Horse Collective is where I go deeper. It’s a learning space for understanding whole-horse health and working through complex issues. You can join the waitlist at HaleAndHeartyHorses.com.

Discover why your horse's lameness, stiffness, or asymmetry might not be a single problem. If your horse has chronic lameness issues, compensatory patterns, or you are always chasing the next thing that goes wrong then the myofascial kinetic lines may be an important part of your horse's healthcare. This episode explores myofascial lines and sinew channels—two complementary systems that map how force, tension, and compensation travel through the entire equine body. Learn why treating the sore spot alone often fails, how ancient Chinese medicine and modern biomechanics describe the same patterns, and how acupuncture bridges both approaches to create lasting soundness. Perfect for horse owners and practitioners seeking a deeper understanding of chronic movement issues and whole-body healing. If the vet work isn't solving the problem and the complexity of your horse's issues keeps you frustrated, this could be the solution you are looking for.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of homeopathy—not as a controversial remedy, but as a powerful observational tool for horse owners. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll discover that homeopathy offers much more than just tiny pellets and mysterious dilutions. It’s a unique language and framework for understanding your horse’s health, behavior, and subtle patterns that often go unnoticed.Drawing on over 25 years of experience, our host explains how homeopathy trains you to observe the details: timing of symptoms, behavioral changes, stress responses, and recurring patterns. You’ll learn why the real value of homeopathy lies in its ability to sharpen your awareness, helping you become a more attentive and effective caretaker for your horse.We explore the five key elements that homeopaths use to assess a horse’s condition—timing, modalities, behavioral states, stress responses, and consistency of patterns—and how these can reveal the underlying story your horse is telling. The episode also highlights the importance of foundational health factors like nutrition, movement, regulation, relationships, and resilience, showing how these pillars support your horse’s well-being beyond any single treatment.Whether you’re new to holistic care or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode will inspire you to look beyond symptoms and start seeing the bigger picture. You’ll come away with practical tips for tracking your horse’s health, recognizing subtle changes, and collaborating more effectively with practitioners.Join us as we reframe homeopathy as a lens for observation and connection, empowering you to be a better advocate for your horse—no matter what methods you choose. Stay tuned for future episodes where we’ll explore the four foundations of equine health in even greater depth!

Discover the ancient art of Tui Na and its powerful application for equine health in this episode of the Hale and Hearty Horses podcast with Dr. Rebecca. Dive deep into the principles of Yin and Yang as they relate to Tui Na, a unique branch of Chinese medicine that goes far beyond traditional massage. Learn how skilled practitioners discern when a horse needs gentle, restorative touch (Yin) versus mobilizing, invigorating techniques (Yang), and why this balance is crucial for your horse’s well-being.In this episode, Dr. Rebecca explores:The history and philosophy of Tui Na in Chinese medicineThe difference between Yin and Yang styles and when to use eachPractical examples of Tui Na techniques for horsesHow Tui Na supports the nervous system, healing, and overall functionWhy listening to your horse’s needs is more important than any single techniqueWhether you’re a horse owner, equine therapist, or simply curious about holistic animal care, this episode will give you valuable insights into how Tui Na can help your horse thrive.If you enjoy this content, follow Dr. Rebecca on TikTok for daily tips on equine health, nutrition, movement, and more!#TuiNa #EquineHealth #ChineseMedicine #YinYang #Holistichorse #HolisticHorseCare

Unlock the secrets of craniosacral therapy for horses with Dr. Rebecca on the Hale and Hearty Horses podcast. In this in-depth episode, we explore the science and art behind this gentle yet powerful modality. Learn how craniosacral therapy supports injury recovery, reveals hidden dysfunctions, and enhances your horse’s overall well-being. Dr. Rebecca shares practical tips, real-life stories, and holistic strategies to help you become an active partner in your horse’s health. Whether you’re a horse owner, trainer, or equine professional, discover how to tune into your horse’s subtle signals and support their healing journey.TimeSegment0:00 Introduction: Welcome to Hale and Hearty Horses, Dr. Rebecca introduces craniosacral therapy1:05 What is Craniosacral Therapy? Common misconceptions and scientific background2:06 How CST works: Fascia, nervous system, and fluid dynamics3:06Physiological benefits: Early warning system, rehabilitation, and nervous system balance4:27 CST for injury, illness, and chronic conditions6:04 Combining CST with other modalities for maximum recovery7:03 CST as a diagnostic tool: Revealing hidden dysfunctions8:10 Real-life examples: Early detection of Lyme, EPM, and subtle injuries9:23 Integrating CST into a holistic care plan10:24Individual responses: The importance of consistency and observation11:04 CST as a window into the horse’s internal world12:00The subtlety and science of CST: Detecting tension and supporting healing13:00 Hands-on stories: How CST revealed hidden issues and supported recovery15:55 The demands of CST on practitioners and the importance of presence18:14 The role of the environment and owner in supporting CST outcomes20:55 How owners can participate: Observation, touch, and tracking patterns24:55 Three steps for owners: Slow down, tune in, and notice patterns28:44 The power of subtlety: Listening to the horse’s body31:24 Final thoughts: Honoring the horse’s wisdom and the practitioner’s effort36:07 Outro: Stay curious, stay connected, and support your horse’s healthCraniosacral therapy for horsesEquine craniosacral therapyHolistic horse careHorse injury recoveryEquine rehabilitationDr. Rebecca DouglassFascia and horsesHorse nervous system healthAlternative therapies for horsesEquine wellness podcast

Are you ready to transform the way you feed your horse? Dive into "Nutrition According to Ancient Wisdom Part 2" and discover the fascinating world of Chinese nutritional therapy for horses—a holistic approach that goes far beyond calories and supplements.In this episode, you’ll unlock the secrets of the five elements and flavors, and learn how to use food as medicine to nurture your horse’s body, mind, and spirit. Find out how to identify your horse’s unique constitution, balance their energy, and address common issues like sluggish digestion, heat, or anxiety—using simple, natural foods.Whether you’re a passionate horse owner, an equine professional, or just curious about holistic animal care, this episode will give you practical tools and ancient wisdom to help your horse thrive. Don’t miss out on this journey into the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine—your horse will thank you!Listen now and start feeding for true harmony, vitality, and partnership.Introduction & Recap of Part 1 — 0:00The Five Flavors and Their Elements — 0:27Understanding Your Horse’s Constitution — 3:33Feeding by Element: Practical Examples — 6:20Food Energetics: Direction of Movement — 8:19Common Imbalances & Food Therapies — 20:25The Depth of Chinese Medicine — 33:57Key Takeaways & Feeding Principles — 37:30Conclusion & Final Thoughts — 41:02#ChineseMedicine #EquineNutrition #HolisticHorseCare #HorseHealth #FoodAsMedicine #TCM #FiveElements #NaturalHorseCare #EquineWellness #HorseFeeding #HolisticNutrition #HorseOwner #TraditionalChineseMedicine #HorseTips #AnimalWellness #EquineTherapy #HorseLovers #NaturalRemedies #HorsePodcast #FeedYourHorse

Part One of a two-part series into the vast discussion on tailoring your horse's diet to the season, the energetic qualities of food, and your horse's individual constitution. Join us to discover how traditional Chinese medicine principles can transform your horse’s health! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca explores Chinese nutrition therapy for horses, explaining how ancient wisdom can be applied to modern equine care. Learn about the importance of digestion, feeding according to the seasons, and tailoring nutrition to your horse’s unique constitution. Whether you’re a horse owner, trainer, or enthusiast, this deep dive will help you support your horse’s vitality, immunity, and overall well-being.This is one of the rarer forms of nutritional therapy, but so powerful. You don't want to miss this two-part series!ChineseMedicine #HorseCare #EquineNutrition #HolisticHealth #TraditionalMedicine #TCM #AnimalWellness #SeasonalFeeding #DigestiveHealth #HorsesChapters:0:00 – Introduction: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Horse Care1:00 – What is Chinese Nutrition Therapy?3:00 – The Nine Principles of Chinese Equine Nutrition7:00 – Digestion: The Foundation of Health10:00 – Prenatal vs. Postnatal Qi Explained14:00 – Feeding According to the Seasons20:00 – Spring: Supporting Growth and Energy22:00 – Summer: Cooling and Moistening Foods24:00 – Late Summer: Strengthening Digestion26:00 – Autumn: Moistening the Lungs and Skin28:00 – Winter: Warming and Nourishing Foods

Unlock the secrets behind acupuncture for horses! In this episode, Dr. Rebecca dives deep into the science and research behind equine acupuncture, busting myths and explaining how this ancient practice is making waves in modern veterinary medicine. Discover the real conditions acupuncture can help, how it works on a biological level, and hear firsthand stories from decades of treating top sport horses. Whether you’re a horse owner, trainer, or just curious about holistic animal care, this episode will give you the knowledge and confidence to consider acupuncture as part of your horse’s wellness routine.Timestamps00:00 – Introduction: Why talk about the science of acupuncture?00:28 – Acupuncture’s research boom & modern relevance00:50 – What conditions does acupuncture help? (Pain, fatigue, immune, hormones, more)01:48 – Dr. Rebecca’s firsthand experience with horses03:04 – Digestive issues, energy, and vitality in horses05:38 – Musculoskeletal disorders, pain, and performance06:45 – Dry needling vs. acupuncture: What’s the difference?10:06 – How acupuncture works: Blood flow, nerves, and nitric oxide13:21 – Acupuncture and the immune system16:57 – Acupuncture’s effects on the brain and nervous system20:00 – Neurotransmitters: Endorphins, serotonin, dopamine, and more23:27 – Hormones and the HPA axis: Stress, cortisol, and balance28:04 – Wrapping up: Why acupuncture is a top therapy for horses30:00 – Final thoughts and how to learn more#EquineAcupuncture #HorseHealth #HolisticHorseCare #VeterinaryMedicine #AcupunctureScience #EquineWellness #AnimalAcupuncture #HorseCareTips #IntegrativeMedicine #EquestrianLife #AlternativeMedicine #HorsePodcast #DrRebecca #HaleAndHeartyHorses

Discover how neuroplasticity shapes your horse’s movement, performance, and rehabilitation. In this episode, we explore the science behind equine biomechanics, the power of brain mapping, and practical strategies to help your horse recover from injury, prevent bad habits, and achieve optimal movement patterns for long-term soundness. Whether you’re a rider, trainer, or horse lover, learn how small, thoughtful changes can rewire your horse’s brain for lasting improvement.#EquineScience #Neuroplasticity #HorseTraining #EquineRehab #Biomechanics #HorseHealth #MovementScience #HorsePodcast #AnimalRehabilitation #Equestrian

Discover a transformative approach to equine wellness in this episode of Hale and Hearty Horses! Join us as we explore how essential oils, when applied to specific acupuncture points, can support the natural, emotional, and energetic healing of your horse.Drawing inspiration from the pioneering work of Peter Holmes and Gabriel Mojay, and backed by over 20 years of experience in acupuncture and Chinese medicine, our host shares practical insights about using essential oils as more than just aromatherapy. Learn how this method—rooted in traditional Chinese medicine—can help address physical, emotional, and behavioral challenges in horses, and foster a deeper connection between you and your equine companion.Whether you’re a horse owner, practitioner, or simply passionate about holistic care, this episode offers a framework for understanding and safely applying essential oils to support your horse’s well-being.Ready to deepen your bond and help your horse thrive? Subscribe for more holistic horse care tips, and stay tuned for upcoming courses and resources!Horses #HolisticHealing #EssentialOils #ChineseMedicine #EquineWellness #holistichorse

Join us as we explore one of the oldest healingtraditions—using plants to support the health and well-being of horses. This episode dives into the fundamentals of equine herbal medicine, discussing how herbs can address both acute conditions and long-term wellness. You'll hear a personal story of herbal healing, learn about the major systems of herbal medicine (Western, Ayurvedic, and Traditional Chinese), and discover best practices for safely and effectively using herbs with your horse. We also cover common pitfalls to avoid, the importance of individualized care, and how to collaborate with professionals for optimal results. Whether you're a horse owner, trainer, or simply interested in holistic animal care, this podcast provides a comprehensive foundation for integrating herbal medicine into your horse's life.00:00 — Introduction: The tradition of using plants forhorse health00:44 — What is herbal medicine for horses?01:29 — Why modern horses need herbal support01:57 — Examples of herbal uses (anxiety, digestion,immune, pain)02:29 — Personal story: Using herbs for a horse’srespiratory infection06:13 — What did the herbs actually do?06:46 — Three major systems of herbal medicine06:56 — Western Herbal Medicine explained07:41 — Ayurvedic Medicine explained07:59 — Traditional Chinese Medicine explained08:49 — Best practices for using herbs with horses09:36 — Foundation of care: Nutrition, management, vetcare10:36 — Quality herbs: Sourcing and contaminants11:11 — Wildcrafting and environmental concerns11:56 — Gradual introduction and preparation of herbs13:07 — Matching herbs to the individual horse14:16 — Dosage, duration, and cycling herbs16:06 — Watching for interactions and contraindications16:33 — Special considerations: Pregnant, aged, orimmunocompromised horses16:55 — Observing, recording, and adjusting17:45 — Collaborating with professionals18:56 — Long-term balance, not quick fixes20:09 — Common pitfalls: Natural ≠ risk-free20:31 — Quality and contamination issues21:46 — Guessing at dosage22:15 — Interactions with medications22:47 — Using herbs instead of veterinary care23:26 — Mixing too many herbs or systems24:25 — Not matching the herb to the horse25:37 — Failing to monitor response26:36 — Long-term use without reassessment27:30 — Conclusion: Building a foundation, future topics, and an invitation to listeners

In this episode of Hale and Hearty Horses, we dive deep into the world of genetically modified (GMO) feeds and their impact on equine health. Join holistic equine practitioner Rebecca as she unpacks the science behind GMOs, explores the potential risks of glyphosate and other herbicides, and discusses how these ingredients may affect your horse’s gut, immune system, and overall well-being.We’ll cover:The most common GMO ingredients in horse feeds.How glyphosate can disrupt digestion, metabolism, and nutrient absorption.Environmental and diversity concerns linked to GMO farming.Real-world concerns from horse owners and veterinarians.Practical tips for choosing safer, non-GMO feed options.Whether you’re a horse owner, trainer, or simply passionate about equine health, this episode will empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions for your horse’s diet and long-term vitality.

Your horse’s gut is home to trillions of microbes that do far more than just digest hay—they help regulate metabolism, balance mood, and train the immune system. In this talk, we’ll take you on a guided tour of the equine digestive tract, exploring the unique microbiome communities in the stomach, small intestine, and especially the hindgut. We’ll uncover how these microscopic partners support nutrient absorption, protect against pathogens, and influence overall resilience.We’ll also dive into the condition known as leaky gut, where the intestinal barrier becomes compromised, allowing unwanted particles—like toxins, bacteria, and undigested food—to slip into the bloodstream. You’ll learn how this breach can trigger the horse’s immune system, setting off both humoral (antibody-based) and inflammatory responses that may impact joints, skin, and performance.Packed with science-based insights and practical strategies, this session will give you the tools to nurture a healthy microbiome, strengthen gut integrity, and keep your horse’s immune system balanced—because a healthy gut means a healthier, happier horse.#EquineMicrobiome#HorseGutHealth#LeakyGutInHorses#EquineImmuneSystem#GutBrainAxisHorses#HealthyHorse#EquineWellness#HorseCareTips#HorseOwnerLife#HorseHealthMatters#HolisticHorseCare#IntegrativeEquineMedicine#NaturalHorseHealth#WholeHorseApproach#HorseLovers#EquestrianLife#HorseHealth#HappyHorse#EquineCare

Join Dr. Rebecca in the inaugural episode of Hale and Hearty Horses as she explores the intersection of traditional veterinary and holistic medicine for optimal equine health. Discover how to integrate the diagnostic precision and emergency prowess of Western medicine with the whole-body and preventative approach of holistic therapies. Learn about a case study on a high suspensory injury, dive into the principles of both medical philosophies, and understand why blending these approaches can offer the best care for your horse. Subscribe to gain insights on equine wellness, disease prevention, and a broad spectrum of holistic treatments.00:00 Introduction to Integrative Equine Care01:09 Case Study: High Suspensory Injury04:04 Traditional Veterinary Medicine Explained06:43 Holistic Medicine: A Broader Perspective07:41 Chinese Medicine and Syndromes10:55 The Body's Innate Healing Ability17:18 Integrating Traditional and Holistic Approaches21:16 Future Topics and Conclusion#HolisticHorseCare,  #IntegrativeEquineMedicine, #EquineWellness,  #NaturalHorseCare, #EquineMedicine,#VeterinaryHorseCare, #WholeHorseApproach  #MindBodyHorse, #EquineHealth,#HorseCare,  #HealthyHorses,  #HorseWellness,  #HorseHealthTips

  Do you want your horse to be strong, healthy, vibrant, and resilient? Do you want to proactively prevent illness and injury and have your horse recover with ease when challenges do arise? Welcome to Hale and Hearty Horses. Your trusted hub for equine wellness and holistic care. Whether you're a horse owner, a trainer, or an equine practitioner, you're in the right place. Here we explore the intersection of traditional veterinary medicine with holistic therapies, bringing you the latest insights on equine health, disease prevention, and whole horse care.

Do you want your horse to be strong, healthy, vibrant, and resilient? Do you want to proactively prevent illness and injury and have your horse recover with ease when challenges do arise? Welcome to Hale and Hearty Horses. Your trusted hub for equine wellness and holistic care. Whether you're a horse owner, a trainer, or an equine practitioner, you're in the right place. Here we explore the intersection of traditional veterinary medicine with holistic therapies, bringing you the latest insights on equine health, disease prevention, and whole horse care.