Maple Ridge Mobile Veterinary Services

08/27/2025

08/27/2025

An under-vaccinated filly in Holmes County, Florida, was euthanized after contracting EEE.

08/26/2025

08/26/2025

Have you ever been told that alfalfa makes horses "hot"?

Well, when we take a closer look at this statement, the truth is much more nuanced, and it depends on several factors.

First, it's important to discuss which definition of "hot" you are referring to. The horse's core body temperature? Or, "hot" as in the horse's behavior?

Taking a look at the nutrient content of alfalfa hay vs. grass hay, alfalfa hay has higher digestible energy; meaning it will have more energy per pound, but less fiber. In addition, it also has lower hydrolysable carbohydrates than grass hay, thus lessening its effects on insulin levels.

Alfalfa hay is also higher in protein. This is where an increase in core body temperature comes into play, because protein increases metabolic heat generation when used for energy compared to fats and carbohydrates.

However, protein conversion to energy is less efficient, therefore horses typically aren't utilizing protein in large amounts as their energy source. Excess protein will be excreted through the urine instead of being stored in the body.

In terms of making a horse "hot" in behavior, as mentioned earlier, alfalfa does have more energy per pound than grass hays. So, if alfalfa is introduced to a horse's diet WITHOUT properly balancing for energy (calories), there is a potential for increased reactivity.

In addition, feeding alfalfa alters the gut microbiome compared to grass hay. Alterations in the gut microbiome can be linked to changes in behavior. Therefore, owners may observe behavioral changes that are reactions to the change in the gut microbiome and not the alfalfa itself.

All this considered, IF the diet is balanced properly for energy and protein, there is no evidence that supports that there will be alterations in terms of horses becoming super reactive and "hot" behaviorally when they are on alfalfa hay. However, it can slightly increase their core body temperature due to its high protein content.

If you have questions regarding your horse's diet and feeding alfalfa, contact your veterinarian.

Thank you to the Horse Owner Education Committee for providing this information.

08/26/2025

Don’t let your horse become a statistic 📊 Beat the skeets 🦟💪🏼💉

Most recent case of EEE from GA… horse was “under vaccinated.”

Read more here ➡️ https://equinediseasecc.org/news/article/Arbovirus-Season-is-Upon-us-Vaccinate-Your-Horses

08/23/2025

Damage from heartworm disease can be lifelong and treatment costly. Prevention is safe and afforable.

08/22/2025

Exciting announcement! 📢 Are there any services you would like to see at a mini vet clinic? Comment below or send us a message. Will offer both equine and canine options ⚕️We have some cool ideas in the works 🐎

08/21/2025

💥 Product spotlight ➡️ EquiShield SA💥

EquiShield® SA Powder is specifically formulated to address allergies in horses. It works the best for treating hives. The addition of ground stabilized flaxseed helps reduce immune response to common allergens. Other key ingredients help support healthy skin while maintaining skin hydration.

• Helps maintain normal histamine levels
• Supports healthy immune function
• Maintains hydration and health of skin
• Anti-oxidant
• Anti-inflammatory

No Rx required ➡️ Shop here 🛒 https://mapleridgemobilevetservices.securevetsource.com/itemView.pml?productId=134288&auto=true

08/21/2025

On and in continuation of National Immunization Awareness Month, we’d like to remind animal owners to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses, such as heartworm disease, West Nile Virus, and others, by keeping their animals up to date on vaccinations and using preventative medications.

Be sure to talk to your veterinarian if you have any questions!

08/21/2025

There are some great products on the market now for canine allergies 🤧

Another reminder for ! Talk to your veterinarian for a pet skin health check or wellness visit.

08/19/2025

08/19/2025

Dr. Smith will be in Pink Hill August 28th. Message us to add to the schedule 🗓️🩺🩻

☎️ Text or call (919) 452-4931
📧 Email [email protected]
🕸️ Website www.mapleridgemobilevet.com