For many horse owners, visits from the farrier occur every six weeks and typically involve routine trimming or standard horseshoeing. When a horse remains consistently sound and performs well, regular farriery by an experienced professional is usually sufficient for optimal hoof health. However, when soundness problems or decreased performance arise, more specialized farriery approaches may be needed to restore comfort and function.

Climate change is increasingly affecting horses, horse properties, and their owners across Canada. In recent surveys, nearly 90 percent of Canadians reported noticing the impacts of climate change in their communities. Horses are facing rising health risks, including respiratory diseases from wildfire smoke and dust, skin conditions and hoof damage caused by unpredictable weather, and new parasites and diseases. Horse owners are also dealing with higher hay costs, unexpected veterinary expenses, and challenges related to weather disruptions, such as riding limitations. Meanwhile, owners of horse properties are working to repair damage from severe storms, flooding, droughts, and high winds.

A horse’s skin covers an extensive surface area, making dermatological issues highly visible. However, while these problems are easy to spot, determining their root cause can be challenging. To provide expert insight into equine skin health, we collaborated with Dr. Stephen White, DACVD, a professor and chief of the Dermatology Service at UC Davis Veterinary Hospital.

Managing Metabolic Challenges - For more than 95 years, Masterfeeds has formulated quality feeds targeted to the needs of Canadian horses. While the classic textured feeds reigned supreme historically, advances in equine health and nutrition have led us to improve formulas decade after decade, year after year to provide the best nutrition for all life stages and needs.