S8E14 Horses and Ticks w Dr. Erika Machtinger

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and show host Justin Long take a deep dive into the mythos of Kissing Spine. They discuss what radiographs show and don't show, the diagnostic process, treatment without surgery, and weighing the risks/problems of surgery, along with a lot of rehab tips.

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and show host Justin Long sit down with Philip Guenther, co-founder of Equine Saddlefit (https://equine-saddlefit.com/) to talk all things saddle fit. Topics include what to look for in a saddle fitter, how proper saddle fit is achieved, saddle pads, and a whole lot more! Make sure to watch the cooresponding video on our YouTube channel for some helpful visual markers.

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and show host Justin Long discuss skinny horses, and the variety of things that can contribute to their condition. Topics include diet and nutrition, exercise, and illnesses. 

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and show host Justin Long interview returning guest Dr. Erika Machtinger, an associate professor of entomology at Penn State. They discuss the types of ticks that are typically problems for horses (and dogs and people!), the disease risks associated with each, pasture management, effective tick repellents, and much more! 

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and show host Justin Long talk about overweight horses. Topics include identifying fat deposits in horses, body condition score, methods of weight loss, nutrition, exercise, negative impacts of excessive weight, and much more!

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and Justin Long discuss skin issues such as rain rot, insect allergies, tail rubbing, and more. Topics include diagnosing, treatment options, prevention, and things to avoid.

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and show host Justin Long discuss proper deworming protocols, why they've changed over time, and why it's so important to stay up to date with the latest research. Topics include deworming drugs, drug resistant parasites, best practices, and why once a year is all most horses need.

In this episode, Dr. Lacher and show host Justin Long discuss neuro behavior in horses, and how EPM is different from other types of neuro behavior. Topics include the dangers of treating EPM without a proper diagnosis, the process for getting a diagnosis for EPM and other neuro diseases, treatment options for a variety of conditions, rehab, and prevention.

In this episode, Dr. Lacher details the journey she has taken through Cahira's intermittant lameness since December 2024. Details include her difficulties in diagnosing the problem, settling on a treatment plan with the help of her team, and trying to ignore the urge to do all the wacky stuff that won't help but might make her feel better for trying. 

In this episode, Dr. Erica Lacher and show host Justin Long discuss a wide variety of aspects surrounding the horse buying experience. Topics include pre-purchase exams, involved professionals like agents, trainers, brokers, dealers, and importers, considerations for horses of various ages, acceptable issues and unacceptable issues, and much more!