Denali Equine Nutrition

18/04/2025

Who’s ready to save money on hay I know I am!

Save Hay, Save Money — Feed Smart with a Hay Net!
Perfect for horse owners seeking cleaner feed and reduced waste.

Why Utilize a Hay Net for Horses?
• Less Trampling and Spoiling – Maintains hay cleanliness and minimizes waste.
• Regulates Consumption for Fast Eaters – Encourages optimal digestion and prevents boredom.
• Maximizes Hay Supply – Extends the life of every bale.

Convenient for you. Beneficial for your horse

Which Hay Net is Right for Your Horse?

Choosing the right size makes all the difference.

1. Slow Feed (1”–1.5” holes):
• Great for easy keepers, bored horses, or those on limited rations.
• Slows them down, mimics natural grazing.
• Ideal for weight management.

2. Medium Feed (1.75”–2” holes):
• Best for most horses.
• Balanced feeding speed — not too fast, not too frustrating.
• Helps reduce waste while keeping horses content.

3. Large Feed (2.5”+ holes):
• Good for senior horses or those who struggle with small holes.
• Easier access, but more waste.
• Not ideal for horses that bolt their hay.

Bonus Tips:
• Use a durable net for aggressive eaters.
• Hang low enough for natural head position, but high enough to avoid hooves.
• Check for wear often to keep things safe.

The right hay net = less waste, happier horses, and healthier feeding.

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse 

16/04/2025

Getting your horses ready for grass pasture—especially in spring—requires a gradual and careful transition to avoid digestive upset like colic or laminitis. Here’s a solid step-by-step approach:

Start Slowly

Begin with 15-30 minutes per day on pasture and increase the time by 15-30 minutes every few days. It usually takes 2-3 weeks to fully acclimate them.

Limit Early Spring Grass

Early pasture is high in sugars (fructans), which can be risky. Horses that are overweight, have metabolic issues, or are prone to laminitis need extra caution. Ideally the grass should be at least 8 to 10 inches high.

Keep Hay in the Mix

Continue feeding hay during the transition period so their gut stays used to it. Hay should still be available even when turnout time increases.

Use a Grazing Muzzle (if needed)

For easy keepers a grazing muzzle can reduce intake by up to 30% while still allowing turnout and movement.

Monitor Hooves and Gut

Check for heat in the hooves, digital pulses, or signs of colic. Watch manure consistency—loose stools can indicate too much rich grass too soon.

Maintain a Routine

Turn out at the same time each day, ideally during late morning or early afternoon when grass sugar levels are lower (sugars spike in the evening and after cold nights).

Pasture Management

Rotate pastures to avoid overgrazing.
Clip weeds.
Reseed if needed.
Keep an eye out for toxic plants.

Your Horse Might Need a Grazing Muzzle If…

They Gain Weight Easily

“Easy keeper” breeds like ponies, Morgans, Arabians, and draft crosses tend to pack on pounds quickly in spring.
If your horse is already in a BCS (Body Condition Score) of 6 or above, grass may push them into overweight or obese territory fast.

History of Laminitis or Metabolic Issues

Horses with Cushing’s (PPID) or Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) are at higher risk of laminitis from high-sugar grass.
Even if they’re stable now, spring pasture can be a big trigger.

Use a weight tape or body condition scoring weekly during the spring to track changes. If your horse gains quickly despite limited turnout, that’s a red flag.

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse 

16/03/2025

🐴 20% OFF Equine Nutrition Programs! Limited Time Only! 🐴

Ends 4/30/2025

Give your horse the best care with a customized equine nutrition program—now at 20% off! Whether you’re optimizing performance, improving health, or managing a special diet, all programs are designed to meet your horse’s unique needs.

1. Forage (Roughage)

• Hay (Timothy, Alfalfa, Orchard Grass, Bermuda)

• Pasture Grass

• Hay Cubes or Pellets

• Beet Pulp (High fiber, great for weight gain)

2. Concentrates (Grains & Commercial Feeds)

• Oats (Highly digestible energy source)

• Barley (More energy-dense than oats)

• Corn (High in energy, but must be fed carefully)

• Sweet Feed (Mix of grains, molasses, and supplements)

• Pelleted or Extruded Feeds (Balanced, fortified with vitamins/minerals)

3. Complete Feeds

• Designed to provide all necessary nutrients, reducing reliance on hay

• Great for senior horses or those with poor teeth

4. Supplements & Additives

• Vitamins & Minerals (For deficiencies)

• Protein Supplements (Soybean meal, alfalfa)

• Fat Sources (Rice bran, flaxseed, vegetable oils)

• Electrolytes (For hydration and performance)

5. Specialty Feeds

• Senior Feeds (Easier to chew, high fiber)

• Performance Feeds (High-energy for working horses)

• Low-Starch/Low-Sugar Feeds (For metabolic conditions)

• Weight Gain Feeds (Higher fat and fiber)

6. Grain free options


Invest in your horse’s well-being today—because they deserve the best!

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your ho

09/03/2025

Grain-free horse feeds are formulated to provide essential nutrients without relying on traditional grains like corn, oats, or barley. These feeds are often chosen for horses with metabolic conditions, digestive sensitivities, or those that thrive on a forage-based diet.
Grain-free feeds have several advantages, especially for their overall health.

Here are some key benefits:

1. Improved Digestive Health

• Horses are natural foragers, designed to consume fibrous forage rather than high-starch grains.

• Grain-free diets can reduce the risk of colic and gastric ulcers by promoting a more natural digestive process.

2. Lower Risk of Metabolic Disorders

• High-starch grains can contribute to insulin resistance, laminitis, and equine metabolic syndrome (EMS).

• Grain-free feeds help maintain stable blood sugar levels, making them ideal for easy keepers or horses prone to metabolic issues.

3. More Natural Energy Levels

• Grain-based diets can cause spikes and crashes in energy, leading to erratic behavior.

• Fiber-based feeds provide a steady, slow-release energy source, keeping horses more balanced and focused.

4. Reduced Risk of Obesity

• Many grain-based feeds are calorie-dense, which can contribute to weight gain.

• Grain-free options often focus on fiber and essential nutrients without excessive calories, supporting healthier body condition.

5. Better Gut Microbiome Balance

• High-starch diets can disrupt the gut’s microbial balance, leading to issues like hindgut acidosis.

• A grain-free diet, rich in fiber and prebiotics, supports a healthier microbiome and improved digestion.

6. Reduced Hyperactivity & Behavioral Issues

• Some horses become excitable or reactive when fed high-starch grains.

• A grain-free diet can help maintain a calmer demeanor by avoiding sugar and starch spikes.

7. Hooves and Coat

• Balanced grain-free feeds often contain higher levels of essential fatty acids, amino acids, and vitamins that contribute to strong hooves and a shiny coat.

8. More Suitable for Horses with Allergies or Sensitivities

• Some horses develop allergies or intolerances to grains like corn, oats, or barley.

• Grain-free feeds eliminate potential allergens, reducing issues like skin irritation and digestive upset.

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse

01/03/2025

Feed Recommendations & Grazing Strategies for a metabolic horse and other considerations for the upcoming Spring season.

Since spring grass can be risky due to its high sugar and starch content, managing your horses diet and turnout is crucial. Below are specific feeding options and grazing strategies to keep your horse healthy.

Feeding Plan:

Forage (Hay) The Foundation of the Diet

Low NSC (Non-Structural Carbohydrates) Hay

Choose tested hay with ESC (ethanol-soluble carbohydrates) + starch

25/02/2025

I am thrilled to be participating in the 2025 Midwest Horse Fair, April 11th, 12th, and 13th. Three days filled with exciting activities and attractions!

Another amazing Midwest Horse Fair in the books. We sure had a blast and it was great seeing y'all again. Make sure you save the date for 2025...we are alr...

25/02/2025

Confused by the vast array of equine supplements available on the market?

Worried about the potential for overlapping?

What is the correct dosage amount for effectiveness or is it just tag dressing?

 The possibility of creating new problems?

Consult with a qualified equine nutrition advisor to receive personalized guidance and a simple plan tailored to your horse's specific needs. 

✅Biotin

✅Vitamin E

✅Electrolytes

✅Skin and coat supplements

✅Hoof supplements

✅Joint supplements

✅Respiratory supplements

✅Glucosamine

✅Zinc

✅Omega 3

✅Vitamin C

✅Chondroitin sulfate

✅Hyaluronic acid

✅Magnesium

✅MSM

✅Performance

✅Probiotics

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balance nutrition for the life of your horse 

05/02/2025

Adjusting a horse’s over all intake based on the weather is important for maintaining their health and energy levels. Here’s how you can adjust their diet depending on different weather conditions:

If your horse isn’t drinking enough water in cold weather, here are some effective solutions to encourage hydration and prevent dehydration:

1. Keep Water From Freezing
• Use heated water buckets or tank heaters to maintain a comfortable drinking temperature (ideally 45-65°F).
• If you don’t have a heater, break ice frequently and remove large chunks to ensure easy access.

2. Offer Warm Water
• Studies show horses prefer lukewarm water (around 50-65°F) in cold weather. Offering slightly warmed water can increase intake.

3. Add Salt to Their Diet
• Salt stimulates thirst, encouraging them to drink more.
• Provide a free-choice salt block (white or Himalayan) at all times.
• If needed, mix 1-2 teaspoons of loose salt directly into their grain or soaked feed.

4. Soak Their Feed
• Add water to hay cubes, beet pulp, or grain to increase water intake through food.
• Mash feeds (like senior feeds or beet pulp) can be soaked into a soup-like consistency.

5. Flavor the Water
• If your horse is picky, try adding apple juice, molasses, peppermint oil, or Gatorade to their water to make it more appealing.
• Start this before winter so they get used to the taste.

6. Provide Multiple Water Sources
• Some horses prefer different types of buckets or troughs, so offer a few options.
• If using an automatic waterer, check it daily to ensure it’s working properly.

7. Monitor Hydration
• Check for skin tenting (pinch the skin on their neck; it should snap back quickly).
• Perform the capillary refill test (press their gums; color should return within 1-2 seconds).
• Watch manure consistency—dry, hard manure can indicate dehydration.

Specific recommendations based on your horse’s environment routine.

Cold Weather Adjustments:
• Increase forage (hay): Horses generate heat through digestion, so feeding more high-fiber hay helps them stay warm. Increase by about 1-2 extra flakes per day.
• Monitor weight: Cold weather increases calorie needs. If your horse starts losing weight, consider adding higher-calorie feeds like beet pulp or stabilized rice bran.
• Adjust grain intake: If your horse is in heavy work during cold weather, they may need additional grain or fat supplements to maintain energy.

• Adjust for sudden weather changes: Horses take time to acclimate to temperature shifts, so make changes gradually to avoid digestive upset.

 https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse 

21/01/2025

To all Equestrians out there ! 

I’ve been thinking about sharing some tips for caring for horses in extreme cold weather. But honestly, I know most of you Midwest equestrians and farmers (and anyone in a four-season climate) already have this down to a science! Hats off to everyone bundling up and braving these freezing temps to care for your animals every single day. You’re the real MVPs out there! Stay warm, stay safe, and give your horses (or whatever animals you care for) an extra pat today!

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse 

28/12/2024

Winter laminitis, often triggered by factors like insulin resistance, cold stress, or dietary imbalances, requires a carefully managed diet. Here are key dietary considerations for a horse with winter laminitis:

1. Low-Sugar, Low-Starch Diet

Hay: Feed low-sugar hay (non-structural carbohydrates or NSC under 10%). Soak hay in water for 30 minutes hot water -60 minutes cold water to reduce sugar content if needed.
Avoid Grain: Eliminate grain and other high-starch feeds. Replace with forage-based or low-starch feeds.

2. Balanced Forage-Based Diet

Provide high-quality forage that meets fiber needs. If pasture is not available, focus on hay.
Use a slow feeder or hay net to encourage slow, steady consumption.

3. Mineral and Vitamin Balancing

Magnesium and Chromium: Can help with insulin sensitivity.
Zinc and Copper: Important for hoof health and metabolic balance.
Feed a balanced vitamin and mineral supplement designed for laminitis-prone horses.

4. Controlled Calories

Prevent weight gain, as obesity can worsen laminitis.
If extra energy is needed (e.g., for a thin horse), add fat sources like stabilized rice bran or vegetable oil rather than grains.

5. Monitor and Adjust Diet

Test hay for NSC levels to ensure it’s appropriate.
Monitor the horse’s weight and condition regularly, adjusting the diet as needed.

6. Avoid Frosted Grass

Frosted grass can be high in sugar and should be avoided, as it may trigger laminitis.

7. Supplements for Hoof and Metabolic Health

Biotin: Supports hoof growth and strength.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Anti-inflammatory properties (from flaxseed or fish oil).

Every case of laminitis is unique. Work closely with an equine nutrition adviser to tailor the diet to your horse’s specific needs and monitor progress.

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse 

11/12/2024

A well-informed approach to dietary management can have a profound impact on the health and wellbeing of senior horses, as Levi demonstrates: at 27 years young and 14hh, he is proof that informed dietary choices can promote continued vitality and vigor.

I am very happy at the progress Levi has made in such a short time!

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse 

28/11/2024

Happy thanksgiving!
Thank You for Your Support!

Dear Valued Customers and Followers of Denali Equine Nutrition

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude.

Your encouragement inspires me to grow, innovate, and serve you and your horse better every day. I wouldn’t be where I am without you, and I’m honored to have you as part of my community.

Thank you for being part of this amazing journey.

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Warm regards,
Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition 
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse 

26/11/2024

What are the key components of an equine nutrition program.

1. One time call
2. 60 day program
3. 90 day program

1. Health History and Physical Condition
- Health review
The equine nutrition adviser will examine the horse’s overall health, looking for any past or present medical conditions that might affect dietary needs (e.g., metabolic disorders, colic history, or laminitis).
- Body condition scoring (BCS)
A visual and hands-on assessment of the horse's body fat and muscle mass, typically on a scale from 1 to 9.

2. Workload and Activity Level
- Understanding the horse's level of activity, such as whether it's used for light riding, heavy competition, breeding, or retirement. Horses with higher workloads have greater energy and nutritional requirements.

3. Current Diet Evaluation
- Forage analysis
This involves assessing the horse's current forage (hay, grass, etc.), as it makes up the bulk of the diet. The analysis will check for nutrient content like fiber, protein, and minerals.
- Concentrates or supplements Evaluation of any additional grains, commercial feeds, or supplements being provided.

4. Nutritional Goals
- Determining whether the horse needs to gain or lose weight, build muscle, or address specific health concerns, like insulin resistance, ulcers, or allergies.

5. Nutrient Balance and Recommendations
- Assessing the balance of energy (calories), protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The consultant may recommend adjustments to the horse's forage or grain intake, suggest different supplements, or advise on better feeding practices.

6. Environmental and Management Factors
- Factors like access to pasture, feeding schedule, herd dynamics, and water quality are taken into account, as they influence the horse’s overall well-being and nutrition.

7. Follow-up and Monitoring with a 60 or 90 day program
- A nutrition plan often includes follow-up assessments to track progress, make adjustments, and ensure the horse is responding well to the changes in diet.

8. Before and after pictures to record progress.

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Message me for pricing!

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balance nutrition for the life of your horse

15/11/2024

Switching a horse’s grain or feed too quickly can pose serious health risks due to the sensitive nature of their digestive system. Here are the key dangers:

1. Colic

• Rapid changes in diet can disrupt the horse’s digestive system, leading to colic. This condition causes abdominal pain and can range from mild discomfort to a life-threatening emergency.

2. Laminitis

• A sudden increase in grain intake or a switch to a richer feed can lead to an overload of carbohydrates. This can upset the microbial balance in the hindgut, causing a cascade of issues that may result in laminitis, a painful and potentially devastating inflammation of the hoof structures.

3. Diarrhea

• Abrupt feed changes can cause loose stools or diarrhea due to the digestive system’s inability to adapt quickly to new ingredients or nutrient levels.

4. Dehydration

• Digestive disturbances like diarrhea or colic can result in significant fluid loss, leading to dehydration and further health complications.

5. Weight Loss or Poor Performance

• If the new grain isn’t providing the right balance of nutrients or if the horse isn’t adjusting well to it, weight loss or decreased performance may occur.

The why ?

• Hindgut Microbiome: Horses rely on a delicate balance of microbes in their hindgut to digest fiber and process nutrients. Sudden changes can kill off beneficial microbes, allowing harmful bacteria to proliferate.
• Acidosis: Excess undigested starch reaching the hindgut can cause lactic acid buildup, leading to acidosis, which can damage the gut lining.

How to Switch Grain Safely

To minimize risks, always transition to a new grain gradually over 7–14 days:
1. Start by mixing 25% of the new feed with 75% of the old feed.
2. Every 2–3 days, increase the proportion of the new feed by 25%.
3. Monitor the horse’s health, appetite, and manure throughout the process.

Following these steps will help ensure a smooth and safe transition to a new grain for your horse!

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balance nutrition for the life of your horse 

14/11/2024

An exciting opportunity!

10/11/2024

My new equine nutrition partner. I guess he’s coming with me.

06/11/2024

📞 Got a Quick Nutrition Question? I’ve Got You Covered! 📞

This Friday, November 8, 2024, take advantage of our One-Time Phone Call Sessions – now 20% OFF!

Skip the lengthy 60- or 90-day programs. Get the answers you need in one convenient, personalized call.

🎉 Limited-time offer! Don’t miss out – book now!

https://denaliequinenutrition.com/

Michelle Travisano
Denali Equine Nutrition
Balanced nutrition for the life of your horse