Progressive Hoof Care Practitioners is hosting a two-part webinar, "The Smart Way to Feed Horses," on May 14 and May 21. The series is an introduction to equine nutrition in practical terms and compliments Dr. Eleanor Kellon's NRC Plus Course. Carol Layton, B.Sc, M.Ed, an independent equine nutritionist, is the presenter.

Part 1, "Growing the Best Possible Hoof," will be at 4 p.m. (Mountain Time) May 14. This session focuses on the digestive system, the best feeds for horses and the key nutrients that influence hoof health. The hoof is required to withstand impact, abrasion, mechanical injury, noxious substances and pathogens but be flexible enough to absorb and divert the shock sustained on it. Hooves have to be rigid as well as elastic and protect the soft, more sensitive tissues inside. To achieve optimal hoof quality, three aspects can be influenced by our management; hoof care, nutrition and movement. Poor hoof growth, horn brittleness, inflammation, prevalence of infections like seedy toe, and a weak immune system can all have a nutritional component.

The cost is $65 for members, $110 for non-members. Register by visiting https://progressivehoofcare.org/2024/04/the-smart-way-to-feed-horses/.