Nutrition for Maximum Performance
Course Description
This course teaches the fundamentals of equine nutrition. Students will learn the physiology of the equine digestive system, the nutrients available in different feeds, and how to apply that knowledge.
Horse nutrition is both an art and a science. Upon completing the course the student will have the basic knowledge needed to properly feed performance horses, helping them reach their potential. Experience and observation will then be supported by a solid scientific foundation of equine nutrition.
Course Outline
I. Understanding the Equine Digestive System
II. The Six Nutrients
A. Water
B. Protein
C. Carbohydrates
D. Fat
E. Minerals
F. Vitamins
III. Forages
A. Types of Plants
B. Pasture
C. Hay
E. Forage Substitutes
IV. Grains and Concentrates
A. Cereal Grains
B. Concentrates
V. Supplements and Nutraceuticals
VI. Know the Numbers
VII. Feeding the Future Performance Horse
A. Broodmare Requirements
B. Stallion Requirements
C. Nursing Foals
D. Weanlings
E. Growing Horses
VIII. Feeding the Performance Horse
A. Halter
B. Racing
C. Endurance
E. Pleasure
IX. Feeding the “Special Needs” Horse
A. HYPP
B. EPM
C. Laminitis Prone
X. Feeding the Retired Performance Horse
Suggested reference book: NRC Nutrient Requirements 2007 Edition