Feeding to Ensure Digestive Tract Health

Feeding to Ensure Digestive Tract Health

We have all heard that certain horses exposed to stressful conditions are at a higher risk of developing ulcers and hindgut imbalances, but did you know that how and what you feed your horse can also increase the likelihood of damaging his or her sensitive digestive tract? One of the most important facets of equine management is learning what strategies should be used to ensure digestive tract health in the horses you care for.

Extensive research has shown us that how we feed our horses affects GI tract pH (acid levels), the inflammation level in the digestive tract, and the digestibility of the diet. It also impacts the balance of good versus bad microbial populations that are so crucial to a healthy hindgut. Researchers tell us that horses benefit from continual eating, either by grazing or by eating frequent small meals throughout a 24-hour period. When horses chew, there is a continuous supply of saliva buffering the stomach and keeping the pH above 4 for most of the day. Horses that eat consistently maintain a comfortably full stomach, which allows feedstuffs to be completely digested. When there is a constant flow of feedstuffs, it provides a continuous supply of nutrients to the horse’s digestive tract and to the microbes that populate the gut. It was the way nature intended horses to eat and when fed this way, they remain healthy and happy.

Best management practices you should be following to ensure a healthy digestive tract:
  • Allow access to good quality hay or forage 24/7. Always feed some long hay.
  • Feed mixed grass and alfalfa hays when possible, as alfalfa hay contains higher levels of protein and calcium that help to buffer the stomach.
  • Feed a total diet that contains no more than 10% nonstructural carbohydrates (sugar and starch).
  • When concentrates (in the form of sweet feed, plain grains or pellets) must be fed to provide energy for work or weight maintenance, offer them in meals of no more than 4-5 pounds per feeding. Feeding intervals should be at least 6 hours apart. Consider adding fat instead of carbohydrates to increase calories.
  • Make all feed changes slowly, over 7 days for hay and 10 days for concentrates and/or supplements, to allow the microbes in the horse’s gut to adjust. Got a new load of hay in? Even if it is the same type of hay, it probably has a different nutrient makeup that can throw your horse’s microbes out of whack.
  • Feed at consistent times of the day. If your feeding routine has to change, make the change slowly over several days.
  • In certain circumstances a change in routine is unavoidable. During times when you know your horse’s digestive tract will be stressed, additional supplementation with a product such as Neigh-Lox Advanced will reduce pH fluctuations and support a healthy microbial population.
  • For horses that are constantly under pressure due to rigorous training and competition schedules, or for those that are simply sensitive, routine digestive tract support with Neigh-Lox Advanced is highly recommended.

There are a lot of traditions when it comes to feeding horses, but modern science has shown us that not all of them are healthy for your horse. Over time the old ways will fall to the wayside and new strategies will be employed. Our horses will benefit from what we have learned and live longer, happier lives.

Article written by Kentucky Performance Products

Big Dee’s 10,000 Fan Celebration

As we stare at the Big Dee’s Tack & Vet Supplies’ timeline, it’s hard to not feel sentimental. Borrowing the famous phrase from Sally Field (And modifying it slightly), “You like us, you really like us!” We couldn’t feel more honored, more humbled or more excited! We pledge to show all of our fans, each and every week, just how much your support and patronage means to us. With that in mind, we have searched the prize cabinet and have come up with a great prize package for this week’s contest! With a value of over $400, this prize package has something for everyone. Here’s a peak at everything inside:

The Prize Package:

Jolly Pet’s Jumbo Jolly Lick

Jolly Pets does not disappoint with this innovative toy! The Jumbo Jolly Lick toy includes a spot for a Jolly Stall Snack for maximum fun! This horse toy, which helps reduce your horse’s boredom, is designed to attach to the your horse’s stall. Young and old alike, this toy and treat combo is perfect for horses of all ages! The plastic toy spins to keep your horse entertained while the Jolly Pets’ Jolly Stall Snack will keep your horse coming back for more! The Jolly Stall Snack isn’t included, but isn’t an expensive add on at only $4.50. With flavors such as apple, carrot, mint and molasses, you are sure to find a stall snack that your horse loves!

Centaura Fly Insect Repellent for Horse & Rider

This unique new equine fly spray by Farnam is great for both Horse & Rider! For your horse, it provides 12 hour effective protection from flies and mosquitoes. For you and your family, it provides 12 hour long lasting protection from mosquitoes and ticks. It also repels biting flies, stable flies, black flies, gnats, chiggers and sand flies for up to eight hours. As an extra bonus, it smells great and isn’t sticky! If this isn’t enough to convince you, check out the Centaura Fly Spray reviews or the video testimonial, which was done by Big Dee’s Operation’s Manager, Jessica Roslan!

Vision Focus & Calming Paste & Pellets by Vitaflex

If you’re looking for a calming supplement for your horse, then this new product by Vitaflex might be your answer. The Vision Focus & Calming supplement, which boasts of seven stress relieving active ingredients, won’t cause drowsiness. Speaking from my own experience, I used this Vision Focus and Calming Paste when moving my horse from her training stable to her winter stable. My mare was calm while traveling and adjusted quickly to her new surroundings. I was even able to ride her on her first trail ride. During the ride, she was attentive but not spooky. If you ask me, that is the perfect combination.

Succeed Digestive Oral Paste by Freedom Health LLC

Succeed Digestive Oral Paste is one of the best trade secrets in the business! From improved temperament to a better body condition, how you treat your horse’s insides definitely shows on the outside. This equine digestive product gives your horse everything he or she needs to succeed (Pun intended). These single serving pastes are great for shows, the track or starting your horse on the Succeed Digestive Conditioning Program. If you haven’t heard of the Succeed Digestive Conditioning Program for horses, please take a moment to read our more detailed description and watch the video. I think you’ll be impressed.

Next Level Performance Equine Joint Pellets by Farnam

Next Level Performance is a new equine joint supplement by Farnam. This pelleted equine joint supplement contains MicroLactin, a patented dried milk protein that helps manage inflammation caused by daily exercise and training. In addition to MicroLactin, it also contains Chondroitin, Glucosamine, Manganese, Vitamin C and Zinc.

Other Prizes:

In addition to the great prizes mentioned above, this package also includes a sample of Calxequin By Nutramax, which is a concentrated daily hoof supplement. A small sample of Pyranha fly spray, a $50.00 Big Dee’s gift card, some treats for your dog, a set of cordless trimmers from Oster and some great promo items from Big Dee’s Tack & Vet Supplies! Phew, that was a mouthful. Now you can really see how there is something for everyone is this prize package.

Contest Rules:

The rules are easy… You just need to comment on this contest(Here on the blog), telling us why you are a fan of Big Dee’s Tack & Vet Supplies and like the link to this contest on Facebook! Do you like our products? Is it our fast shipping? Or, maybe it’s our knowledgeable CSR’s? Whatever it is, we want to know!

On 09/06/12 at 8:00 AM, we’ll pick one random winner to win the ENTIRE PRIZE PACKAGE!

No Purchase Necessary. Random Winner chosen on 09/06/12 at 8:00 AM. Must have a valid US Address to participate.

Big Dee’s Wants You to Show Your Ariat Team Spirit!

Who has Olympic Fever? I do! I do! Actually, everyone at Big Dee’s does, which is why we’ve decided to dedicate this week to USA spirit. Thanks to a generous donation from our friends over at Ariat International, we’re starting off with a Team Ariat contest, which will feature a polo shirt with the Ariat team logo and a pair of Ladies Performer Euro Seat Breeches! That’s a prize package valued at over $174.00! One lucky winner will be showing her team spirit from head to toe.

The Prize Package:

Ariat Performer Euro Seat Breeches

These versatile Performer Euro Seat Breeches by Ariat are designed for performance and schooling. The nylon cotton-twill blend has four-way stretch for a dynamic fit. Ariat’s patented V3® technology provides a comfortable fit at the waist, and the Core Control fit technology offers a secure, supportive, streamlined fit during active riding. Calf Fit System supports the lower leg and eliminates bulking and irritation under tall boots. Traditional side-zip entry. Synthetic suede knee patch, mid-rise fit. Performer breeches are Bluesign-certified to meet the highest environmental standards

Ariat Team Logo Polo Shirt

This classic navy polo by Ariat features a contrast rib knit collar and cuff with bold Ariat logo across chest. Great polo for riding or casual wear.

Contest Rules:

The rules are easy… You just need to comment on this contest, telling us why you would like to show Team Ariat spirit! On 08/10/12 at 8:00 AM, we’ll pick one random winner to win the ENTIRE PRIZE PACKAGE!

No Purchase Necessary. Random Winner chosen on 08/12/12 at 8:00 AM. Must have a valid US Address to participate.

Products mentioned in this article: Ariat Team Logo Polo Shirt, Ariat Performer Euro Seat Breeches

Big Dee’s is Helping You Beat the Bugs!

The unfortunate consequence of owning a horse…FLIES (Ticks, gnats, or any other creepy crawly that comes with summer)! Here at Big Dee’s we’ve been thinking of ways to help you enjoy the summer season without the bugs, which is why we developed the Big Dee’s “Beat the Bugs Contest.”

The Prize Package:

This prize package, which is valued at over $85.00 includes some of our favorite products, more specifically, the package contains two cans of Centuara Fly Spray for Horse & Rider by Farnam, one Trap ‘N Toss Fly Trap also by Farnam, one Fly Mask by Horse Sense, and a a set of Insect Repellent Tack Bands by Fly Armor. Why did we choose these products? Let me tell you a little more about these great items.

Centaura Fly Spray for Hose & Rider by Farnam

This unique new product by Farnam is great for both Horse & Rider! For your horse, it provides 12 hour effective protection from flies and mosquitoes. For you and your family, it provides 12 hour long lasting protection from mosquitoes and ticks. It also repels biting flies, stable flies, black flies, gnats, chiggers and sand flies for up to eight hours. As an extra bonus, it smells great and isn’t sticky! If this isn’t enough to convince you, check out the Centaura Fly Spray reviews or the video testimonial, which was done by Big Dee’s Operations’s Manager, Jessica Roslan!

Trap ‘N Toss by Farnam

This handy, disposable Trap ‘N Toss fly trap by Farnam can be hung up or set down wherever flies are most active. It attracts and kills over 10,000 flies without insecticides. The special attractant contains multiple feeding stimulants plus a fly sex attractant, which is sure to grab any fly’s attention. It’s also safe for use around children, pets or livestock! Best of all, it’s easy to use – just squeeze in attractant and add water. No messy jars to clean. The Trap ‘N Toss by Farnam is both an effective and an inexpensive way to control flies around the stable area.

Fly Mask by Horse Sense

Summer is upon us and fly season is in full force.This Fly Mask by Horse Sense will help both you and your horse beat the bugs this season. The durable netting not only protects your horses eyes, but is also easy to wash. The comfort cotton trim will make your horse both calm and cool during these hot summer months. At $9.99, this fly mask’s price is hard to beat.

Tack Bands Insect Repellent by Fly Armor

If you haven’t been living under a rock for the past several months, then you’ve heard of Fly Armor! The insect repellent tack bands provide an invisible shield of tranquility against flies, mosquitoes, gnats, fleas, ticks and no-see-ums for approximately four weeks, depending upon weather conditions. The hotter it is, the better these bands work. The unique component of a Fly Armor™ band is the scented, eco-friendly replacement insert. Fly Armor inserts protect your animal from bothersome flying insects. I would encourage all of you to view the video describing the Fly Armor Tack Bands. Fly Armor also provides video testimonials, which are quite compelling! In our humble opinion this product it well on its way to becoming a barn staple!

Contest Rules:

The rules are easy… You just need to comment on this contest, telling us which of these products you are most anxious to choose! On 7//27/12 at 8:00 AM, we’ll pick one random winner to win the ENTIRE PRIZE PACKAGE!

No Purchase Necessary. Random Winner chosen on 7/27/12 at 8:00 AM. Must have a valid US Address to participate.

Products mentioned in this article:Centaura Insect Repellent for Horse & Rider, Fly Armor Tack Bands, Trap ‘N Toss and Fly Mask by Horse Sense.

Hot Picks from the 2012 Last Chance for Summer Savings Flyer

The new Last Chance for Summer Savings Flyer will be arriving in mailboxes soon. If you’ve shopped at Big Dee’s for years, then you know our sales flyers are your exclusive ticket to amazing savings. Since I know all of you must be “Chomping at the Bit,” I wanted to give you a sneak peek at some of my favorite deals.

Acti-Flex 4000

If you haven’t heard about the equine joint supplement Acti- Flex yet, then you are missing out on one of the greatest trade secrets in the business. This powerful liquid joint supplement combines Chondriotin Sulfate, MSM, Glucosamine Sulfate, Ascorbic Acid, Boswella Serate and Hyaluronic Acid (125 mg per oz). If you still need convincing, check out the label, or better yet the reviews. Acti-Flex 4000 has 64 reviews and averages a FIVE STAR rating. Most importantly, you can’t beat the deal. When you take advantage of the promotion, Acti-Flex is only $0.53 a day! I challenge you to beat that deal. If you find a joint supplement that combines the same ingredients at the same dosages at a cheaper price, I would love to hear about it. Not to sound too Hair Club for Men, but I also use Acti-Flex for my hunter mare. It really works!

Horse Health Ivermectin

Whether you’re on a rotation, do fecal testing, or just deworm when you feel like it, we all have to deworm our horses. Unfortunately, it is a necessary evil. Here at Big Dee’s we want to make this process as easy and hopefully painless as possible. How you ask? We work with our suppliers to give you the BEST possible deals on dewormers. Whether you choose Ivermectin, Bimectin, Pyrantel, or Fenbendazole, we have the best deals to keep your horse healthy and worm free. With Horse Health Ivermectin costing as low as $2.05 per tube, it was an easy choice!

Fly Mask by Horse Sense

Summer is upon us and fly season is in full force.This Fly Mask by Horse Sense will help both you and your horse beat the bugs this season. The durable netting not only protects your horses eyes, but is also easy to wash. The comfort cotton trim will make your horse both calm and cool during these hot summer months. At $9.99, this fly mask’s price is hard to beat.

OOPS Jolly Balls – Assorted Colors

“OOPS” during production means BIG savings for you! These Jolly Balls may have irregular colors, but they still have the same functionality and quality craftsmanship as all Horsemen’s Pride products. These balls, which require no air to inflate, have become a stable staple. With over 29 reviews, these Jolly Balls still maintain a FIVE STAR rating. If you’re looking for a great horse toy at an amazing value, then this is the product for you!

Want to check out more of these great deals before everyone else? View the flyer deals online now – HERE!

Products mentioned in this article: Acti-Flex, Horse Health Ivermectin, Fly Mask by Horse Sense, and Jolly Balls

Announcing Big Dee’s Bonus Bucks Program

Big Dee’s Bonus Bucks Program

Are you tired of holding endless car washes, raffles and bake sales to support your club’s awards programs? If you answered yes, then we have the answer for you – Big Dee’s Bonus Buck’s Program! This program is a simple way for your club to earn
5% BACK
on all of your club member’s qualifying purchases in-store, over the phone or online. The Bonus Bucks you earn will help your club purchase year-end awards, customized club gear and gift certificates. Earning money for your club has NEVER been so easy! To learn more about this FREE program offered by Big Dee’s Tack & Vet Supplies, please visit our website’s Bonus Buck’s Page by clicking HERE!

Mary’s Purchasing Picks 06/05/12

Mary’s Purchasing Picks

Hello Summer!

These are a few of my favorite things! (must-have items for the season)
Welcome to our Big Dee’s Blog! My name is Mary and I am the Purchasing Assistant here at Big Dee’s. I have been working here for five years come this fall—I must say we are very lucky folks that get to carry over our love of horses into every day work at the office! I got my first pony at the age of three (Shetland named LadyBug) and haven’t stopped since. Currently  I own three quarter horses. I love to compete in gaming classes, trail ride, and chase the occasional cow!

Micro-tek Medicated Spray

‘Tis the season! April showers bring May flowers–however, they also bring lots of mud! This is a great product to have on hand year-round, but especially great this time of year. It is excellent to spray on mud fever, rain rot, itchy spots, dry skin, and any other crud or irritation your horse can conjure up! I have used it on horses with mud fever, dry skin, and rub spot–and have seen noticeable results in a matter of a couple days. It is environmentally friendly, alcohol free, and non-toxic to boot. Give it a try—you’ll see why this is a top seller for us.

Quiet Ride Fly Mask

I’m sure we’re all looking forward to the warmer weather! Unfortunately warm weather=fly season. Luckily our wonderful friends at Cashel have created the Quiet Ride Fly Mask for summer trail riding and hacking. Does your horse get agitated and toss his head while riding down the trail from those pesky flies? This mask will help! It is crafted from a sheer mesh that is lightweight, comfortable, and will not obstruct their vision. It attaches easily to your bridle and stays secure. We offer several versions to meet your specific needs—including long nose, ears, long nose/ears combination, or traditional mask with no ears. It’s easy to see why they are flying off our shelves!

Rubber Boots from Smoky Mountain

Now that we’ve got your horse covered…how about something for the human?? These boots are ready to take on rain, mud, and outdoor chores. If you must work hard outdoors, why not look great while doing so? These boots from Smoky Mountain have a stylish leopard print pattern. They also feature a durable tread and cotton sock lining to keep you comfortable. Smoky Mountain also offers several other similar rubber boots in fun prints.

Products mentioned in this article: Micro-Tek, Quiet Ride Fly Mask and Rubber Boots from Smoky Mountain

Complete selection of equine and rider products since 1976!