Horse Feeding Tips and Advice

Your horse is everything

Thu, 02 May 2024 08:11:55 +0000

If horses were people - Outtakes (From the Vault)

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 13:00:44 +0000

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Introducing ImpactFlex from SmartPak

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 20:00:17 +0000

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Ask the Vet - Does a horse's sheath need to be cleaned?

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How to use Sav-A-Hoof Protectant

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How to use SBS Thrush Stop

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How to apply SBS Toe Grow

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ExpertPicks from SmartPak

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Introducing Nantucket from SmartPak

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Do you need a round or oval Charles Owen helmet?

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Power Your Passion

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Read Joyce's Breast Cancer Survival Story and GO PINK for Breast Cancer Awareness Month at SmartPak

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SmartPerform™ Ultra equine supplement from SmartPak

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 00:03:51 +0000

Annual Wellness Requirements for ColiCare | Now up to $15,000 in reimbursement!

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SmartGI Ultra equine digestive supplement from SmartPak

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Decoração de Páscoa: 35 Ideias Lindas Para Enfeitar Sua Casa | Revista Artesanato

Sun, 17 Apr 2022 06:31:31 +0000

Decoração de Páscoa: 35 Ideias Lindas Para Enfeitar Sua Casa | Revista Artesanato

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Tue, 28 Dec 2021 08:05:47 +0000

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Saying Goodbye to my Heart Horse

Mon, 15 Feb 2021 13:09:00 +0000

I never believed in heart horses until I met Haven.

The moment I met her; it felt like our hearts connected, and I finally understood what a heart horse was. A gorgeous dark bay 16.3 OTTB with a white blaze down her face, but as big as she was, Haven was incredibly graceful (for the most part) and a gentle giant. She had the softest eyes and the kindest soul. She was so invested in doing well and always put her heart into our working days. As much as she loved to work, she loved our time in the barn with the radio on softly and me singing off-key while grooming her.

In fact, I was happy that it always seemed like Haven just loved being near me. If I was cleaning her run, she would follow every step of mine and if I paused long enough, I would feel her chin on my shoulder. Summers were the best. She loved playing in water, and I can’t even tell you how many days I just hung out with her in the sun doing nothing but watching her be a horse (but always staying nearby).

Not only was Haven a great horse while working and hanging out, but she was also always game for my antics. I loved buying silly headbands and other random dress-up stuff for my horses to wear to just take fun pictures in. Sometimes I’d play around just doing silly things with her mane and tail, but Haven just loved the attention and never refused anything I wanted to do- even if it wasn’t normal horse stuff. Those funny pictures will be my comfort in the coming months of grief.

When I met Haven, a second horse was not something I was looking for, but as soon as I learned that she was for sale I knew I was going to end up with her. I was lucky enough that her former owner, Linda let me ride and play with her in the arena which really cemented that instant bond I had felt upon meeting her. Linda saw it too and I will forever be thankful that she and her husband trusted me with Haven. I feel in some ways that Linda and I are bonded through Haven’s spirit and that eases the pain a bit, too.

Due to her racing career, Haven’s joints weren’t in the best shape, but Cosequin and SmartFlex Senior helped keep things manageable until last year. We increased her supplements and adjusted her workload. We tried everything as her pain progressed. Wraps, medications, different supplements including CBD, liniments, etc. Everything worked for a while and she seemed to feel better for a time, but then her pain would return.

On 12/19/2020 I made the decision to put my beautiful Haven to rest. I’ll be 100% honest, it was not a difficult choice to make. Despite how much I knew my heart would hurt without this beautiful creature and gentle soul in my life, I also knew it was what was best for Haven. She picked me to be hers, trusted me with her care, and I was going to honor that, all the way until the end. I knew it was not if this needed to happen, but when.

On that cold December Saturday, I talked to my barn owner, Ashley about it. I just wanted what was best for my girl. That day Haven wasn’t doing too badly, but I knew some days were better than others- and the good days were no longer outnumbering the bad. We decided it was a good day to let her go. She was calm and seemed to be in less pain than normal. I was glad to be able to make that decision on a good day, instead of having to make an emergency call.

So if this was to be my last day with her, it was going to count. We took a little walk and I let her graze and just enjoyed the silence and peace of being near her. When it got too cold, we went back to the barn where she had the biggest tub of grain, she’d ever seen waiting for her. I went all out for her last meal! Her favorite grain, peppermint treats, apple slices, and carrot pieces were hidden in the tub and I also mixed a small brand-new bag of Banana Bread flavored SmartCookies (her favorite flavor) in with it.

It seemed like Haven thought she had hit the jackpot as she happily munched away, but there I was, tears welling up in my eyes, threatening to break the damn and spill over my cheeks while trying to cut Haven’s incredibly thick tail. Ashley came out to the barn and started braiding her mane, snipping off the braids one by one for me. We worked in silence with the holiday music playing in the background. At one point we both laughed at the struggle I was having cutting her tail, it was so thick and beautiful. We got Haven all groomed up while she was still devouring her food and
I took some time to just hug her and breathe in her scent so that I could commit it to my memory.

My vet, Dr. Best arrived, and he was so compassionate and gentle. He and Ashley took charge so I could just focus on being there for my girl. I never left her side, telling her how much I loved her until she was gone. It sounds cliché but, she was absolutely my favorite hello and my hardest goodbye. Dr. Best stayed to make sure she passed peacefully and a while longer to make sure I was ok. I will admit that in some ways I was a tiny bit numb to everything in that moment. My focus was being strong for Haven and doing right by her.

Looking back, I can see how lucky and loved both Haven and I were by our barn family. Ashley, not just my barn owner but my dear friend was my strength when I had given all of what I had to Haven. She was by my side doing things I couldn’t do and providing hugs and support. Therese, a fellow boarder was there to walk me to the other end of the barn and even managed to make me laugh while the rendering truck took Haven away, I’m grateful she kept me from watching that. Wendy another boarder and close friend who arrived at the end of it wrapped her arms around me and let me finally break. I couldn’t have gotten through it without those three women. I will eternally be grateful for everyone that day, including Dr. Best.

So here I am now. It’s a little over a month later, on what would have been her 12^th birthday, tears falling as I write this. The days pass and the pain in my chest seems to ease up little by little. I no longer cry when pulling up to the barn to take care of my other horse Mariah.

Do I still struggle with the grieving process? Absolutely. Grief comes in waves and is not a straight timeline. Some days are completely tear-free and others are the exact opposite. Some things that have helped me personally are thoughtful momentos I can cherish. My boyfriend Paul found a necklace with a horse running, an angel wing charm, and another charm with “H” on it. There’s also a rearview mirror ornament that is a lock of Haven’s hair along with a charm with her name and a jewel (I chose green as it was the color that all of her halters, lead ropes, boots, etc. were) in between angel wings. These are little ways to feel like she will always be with me. They don’t fill the hole of her missing, but they’ve helped in being able to work through the grief while honoring her memory.

If you’re going through the loss of your horse, be gentle with yourself. There is no right or wrong way to heal. If you want to run out and adopt another horse right away, wonderful! If you want to wait a while or until the right one crosses your path, that is what may be best for you! If you never want another horse again, that is perfectly okay as well. The one thing I think I needed to hear the most going into this was to not let others tell me how to grieve. For you and for me, we can work through it in whatever way we need to.

The week after saying goodbye to Haven, Ashley took over Mariah’s care so that if I needed to stay home and wallow, I was free to do so and if I just needed to go and spend quality time with Mariah without the barn chores needing to be done, then I had that option as well. So if you’re out there missing a horse you loved and you just need to curl up with ice cream and watch your favorite tv show all day, do it! This isn’t about anyone but you and your healing. As time passes, the number of sad days becomes less, and the good days seem to grow. If you are grieving a horse, you will get through this; I promise.

I’m going to end this with a quote we share here at SmartPak that has really helped me.

“Somewhere in time’s own space,
there must be some sweet pastured place.
Where creeks sing on and tall trees grow,
some paradise where horses go.
For the love the guides my pen,
I know great horses live again.”
-Stanley Harrison

SmartPak Equine Valentines

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 12:40:00 +0000

Chestnuts are red,
ribbons are blue,
Happy Valentine’s Day
from SmartPak to you!

From all of us here at SmartPak, we’re wishing you a Happy Valentine’s Day! We hope you’re able to treat yourself to a great day at the barn or in the saddle– and treat your horse to something sweet, too.

Don’t forget to share a photo of you showing your horse some love and tagging @SmartPak or #SmartPak on your favorite social media!

Lauren & Enzo

Dimples® Horse Treats with Pill Pocket

Shop: Dimples® Horse Treats with Pill Pocket

Taylor & Roxy

Senior Snax

Shop: Senior Snax

Jessica & Cozmo

SmartCookies
(in Guilt-Free
Peppermint Pattie!)

Shop: SmartCookies

Elizabeth & Sam

Hilton Herballs

Shop: Hilton Herballs

Kayleigh & Comet

Stud Muffins Slim Horse Treats

Shop: Stud Muffins Slim Horse Treats

Jess & Miss B

Uncle Jimmy’s Squeezy Buns

Shop: Uncle Jimmy’s Squeezy Buns

Alissa & Tiger

The German Beet Treat

Shop: The German Beet Treat

Kelcie & Quest

Kelcie’s Pumpkin Spice Horse Treats

Shop: Kelcie’s Pumpkin Spice Horse Treats

Cora & Braveheart

Paddock Cake Treats

Shop: Paddock Cake Treats

What treats does your horse heart? Tell us in the comments!

Winter Poop Patrol

Thu, 11 Feb 2021 12:26:00 +0000

I’m one of those nutty boarders who actually LIKES cleaning manure. Not stalls so much, more paddocks and pasture, which probably suits management just fine since then they don’t have to worry about me taking out too much bedding or putting in too much replacement.

That said, picking manure from the paddocks in the winter isn’t as much fun as in other seasons:

It’s cold
It’s dark
It’s slick
If there’s snow, it’s difficult to push the wheelbarrow
You have to carry extra tools to dig out or unstick buried, frozen manure

Fortunately for me, my barn owner excels at problem-solving, so here are her solutions to these five winter paddock cleaning conundrums.

1.She got tired of not being able to feel or use her fingers while shoveling in the snow so tried a pair of the FieldSheer Mobile Warming Blacksmith Workgloves. Sometimes innovative new products like these are a nice idea but poorly executed, however, these gloves are legit!

2. The barn is named “Crack of Dawn Farm” for a reason, which is that she has to be at work super early. And with the short days in winter, neither of us can get there before dark. Therefore, the rechargeable battery-operated headlamp picture above between the gloves is a must-have.

3.I didn’t get a picture of these because I don’t have my pair yet and she keeps hers in the car for safety, but we use the brand STABILicers® winter traction cleats. They make a wide variety of these now, but basically, they’re a traction device that straps on to your boot or shoe.

4.We use the “muck-bucket-in-wheelbarrow” system to clean the paddocks, which works great — until it snows. Wheelbarrows were just not made to travel in snow.

You know what WAS made to travel in snow? A SLED! I don’t know where she came up with this great idea, but my barn owner bought us a sled that fits two muck buckets and all our tools AND pulls with one finger!

5.Normally one of those standard-issue plastic manure forks is all you need to pick paddocks during warm months. However, with freezing temps, uneven ground, and snow cover, winter requires a few more tools. Here’s what we typically carry out with us to the frozen tundra:

I hope this description of “Poop Patrol” in the winter in the North is helpful to others caring for horses in the higher latitudes. If you’ve thought of a clever way to beat Mother Nature during this season, enlighten the rest of us!

-SmartPaker Lydia

Seasonal Customer Care Representative (Remote)

Thu, 04 Feb 2021 18:00:00 +0000

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

When most people say “work hard, play hard,” they don’t mean at the same time. But we’re not most people. We’re a little more awesome than that, and we’re willing to bet that you are, too.

About the job:

Our team is maniacally focused on powering healthy horses and happy riders. The Seasonal Customer Care Representative role is an exciting position within SmartPak’s call center as a remote employee. We are looking for some awesome horse people to join our team to help our customers by bringing in their own equine experience in our busy holiday season.

This position is fully remote and seasonal, running through July 16 2021. Strong performers may be offered the opportunity to join the Customer Care team in a regular full-time role at the end of the season.

Schedule:

Initial systems training and phone onboarding – estimated 4 weeks – Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM EST
Regular schedule will be finalized in training period, and will require both evenings and weekends

The role includes the opportunity to communicate with our customers in a variety of different ways on a daily basis:

Talking with SmartPak customers over the phone, partnering with them to make recommendations and provide creative solutions
Promoting brand loyalty by providing solutions to SmartPak customers for their equestrian needs
Increasing sales of SmartPaks, supplement subscriptions, and tack and equipment by demonstrating an expertise in our current product assortment
Cultivating relationships with our customers by providing exemplary customer service
Driving brand-building initiatives through the execution of marketing programs and promotions
Provide accurate account management and follow-up based on customer needs

How you’ll do it (skills):

Develop knowledge and skills in the following areas
Giving exemplary and seriously playful customer service
Consultative selling
Selling SmartPaks and subscription-based programs
Understanding internal tools and systems
Equine and canine health and nutrition
Honing your SmartPak voice
Responsible for own professional development and growth with assistance from team leader
Maintain a good standing in Attendance Policy
Other duties as assigned

We get you because we are you; here’s why:

Full time seasonal role
Continuous learning opportunities available for personal professional growth

How you’ve done it before (experience + qualifications):

5+ years of hands on equine experience
Focus and passion for helping customers and their horses
Sophisticated verbal and written communication skills
Technologically savvy with working knowledge of Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook
Aptitude to quickly learn and confidently navigate new computer systems
Ability to offer creative and out-of-the-box solutions
Proficient time management and organizational skills
Confident, risk-taker with a great sense of humor
Exhibits sales aptitude and willingness to improve upon these skills
Comfortable working independently, as well as in a group
Ability to stay motivated in a remote environment
Customer service experience preferred
Telephone and/or retail background are a plus

Remote Technology requirements:

Remote position requires access to high-speed Cable or Fiber Optic internet with a modem or wireless box. Connection must be hard-lined into modem or wireless box; SmartPak will provide a standard 4-foot CAT-6 line. Candidates with Satellite and DSL internet will not be considered as these connections are NOT compatible with SmartPak’s internet phone system.
Must own a mobile device that has the capability to download and access the Okta Verify application (free app).
Applicant or a member of their household must be personally responsible for the bill received from their internet service provider in the event any IP address modifications are needed

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

SmartPak is an affiliate of Covetrus. Covetrus is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants or employees on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, national origin, ancestry, disability that can be reasonably accommodated without undue hardship, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, citizenship, marital or veteran status, or any other legally protected status.

Retail Sales Associate, Part-Time

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 15:43:51 +0000

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

When most people say “work hard, play hard,” they don’t mean at the same time. But we’re not most people. SmartPak is a little more awesome than that, and we’re willing to bet that you are too.

What you’ll do (day-to-day):

Actively sell product and services to customers at the Natick retail store
Must be available nights and weekends
Assist with merchandising and stocking product on sales floor
Greet customers and answer phone
Light cleaning and recovery of sales floor and back rooms
Other duties as assigned
A strong commitment to the highest level of customer service is required

How you’ve done it before

1-2 years retail experience
Experienced equestrians preferred
Positive and enthusiastic
Must be able to lift 50 lbs
Our ideal candidate can communicate ideas quickly and clearly and loves to sell

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

_{SmartPak is an affiliate of Covetrus. Covetrus is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.}

Merchandise Assistant

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 14:28:17 +0000

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

Essential Job Functions:

Provide support to members of the Buying team
Develop a working knowledge of the buying functions including merchandise selection, negotiating, pricing, and sales analysis
Communicate across functions to provide information and problem solve
Assist the Buyer in assortment and category planning
Compile and review reports to help analyze category & product performance
Participate in vendor meetings with merchandising team; communicate with vendors to get information and answers to questions
Manage product set-up and maintenance in systems, including data entry, image and sample tracking
Monitor competitive landscape, report findings and make product & pricing recommendations

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

_{Covetrus is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.}

SmartPak Celebrates Diversity

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 04:50:00 +0000

SmartPak is proud to work with a number of riders and organizations who are doing great things in their communities, in the equine industry, and in the riding arena. In celebration of Black History Month, we’re sharing the important contributions of black equestrians with stories from riders like Chanel and Jaise, who inspire us to give nothing less than our best, and programs like CBC Equine and Ebony Horsewomen, that encourage us to do more for our fellow riders. We’re sharing their stories with you today and every day!

Brittney Chambers, founder and owner of CBC Equine Therapeutic Horseback Riding Academy, LLC in Elk Groce, CA has been a rider her entire life. As a professional, she rides and teaches both English and Western riding, and also specializes in rider biomechanics.

“I wanted to make sure that in the place I created, any and everyone felt loved and accepted.”

At the Academy, Brittney provides riding and horsemanship classes both in-person and online, along with horse training and equine-facilitated learning and psychotherapy. Additionally, CBC Equine has partnered with several community organizations including their local police department and mayor’s office to address the issues of mental health in the community, with opes to improve it by way of horseback riding.

Read the full story here: https://blog.smartpakequine.com/2020/09/follow-your-dreams-brittney-chambers/

Chanel Rhodes is a first-generation African American English and Western rider. From her lifelong passion for horses sprang her revolutionary new product- Mane Tresses!

“If you are not living your life with passion, then you are not living at all.”

After installing her own weaves for years, one year for Black History Month, she got a little extra creative by crocheting braiding hair into her horse Lady’s mane. Her invention of colorful, easy-to-install hairpieces for horses is an amazing example of thinking outside the box and using innovation to make a mark in the equine industry.

Since sharing her videos online, Chanel has been featured in articles, news segments, and podcasts. Her main message has been and still remains wanting to encourage others to think outside the box and to live their lives with passion.

Read the full story here: https://blog.smartpakequine.com/2020/08/living-with-passion-chanel-rhodes/

Patricia Kelly founded Ebony Horsewomen, Inc. in 1984 with the mission to empower youth through education, horsemanship, and equine-assisted therapy.

“At the end of the day, we’re about unity. We’re about protecting one another and being a positive influence in our community.”

Since then, various programs including Junior Mounted Patrol, young Ladies Leadership Dressage Academy, and Saturday Saddle Club have taken root and are run by professional instructors (many of whom are alumni of the programs themselves!).

What stands out the most when visiting the farm is the family atmosphere. The staff is incredibly passionate about what they do and the students radiate joy every moment. From the smallest pony on the property to the oldest and wisest schoolmaster – each horse has had an important impact on the riders that love them.

Read the full story (and see the video!) here: https://blog.smartpakequine.com/2020/12/horses-building-trust/

At the age of two, Jaise was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer called Rhabdomyosarcoma. Yet, despite cancer’s nagging and incessant ways, Jaise continues to find the strength to persevere.

“Being in the presence of horses made her laugh, smile, and form close bonds with the horses she was caring for regularly. It’s a place with freedom to just be herself.“

At five, she began horseback riding, quickly learning the value of hard work, responsibility, and teamwork. It’s been a miraculous transformation, recasting her into an increasingly confident, bold, and happier child. With horses, Jaise doesn’t have to worry about being judged by her appearance, or the texture and length of her hair, or what she chose (or didn’t choose) to wear to school that day. She is giving and receiving unconditional love from the horses she’s bonded with and it’s simply astounding to witness.

Read the full story here: https://blog.smartpakequine.com/2020/01/saving-jaise/

Do you know a rider or facility that deserves to be featured on the SmartPak Blog? Tell us more here:

Commit to a Healthy Gut

Sat, 30 Jan 2021 11:30:00 +0000

Your horse’s stomach plays a critical role in digestion, but the impacts of gastric health don’t stop at feed utilization. An unhealthy stomach can cause wide-ranging impacts from weight loss to poor performance and irritability. This is because gastric issues, like ulcers, can be incredibly painful and persistently bothersome. Unfortunately, these types of problems are also very common.

Your horse’s stomach was designed to continuously produce acid to aid in digestion. It’s this constant production of acid, combined with the infrequent meals many horse owners feed for convenience’s sake, that make gastric issues so common.

Your horse’s stomach is covered with two types of lining: glandular mucosa and non-glandular (squamous) mucosa. The glandular mucosa, which contains the glands that constantly produce acid to aid in digestion, covers the bottom two-thirds of the stomach. This region also produces mucus and bicarbonate to help protect the stomach from acid exposure. The non-glandular mucosa covers the top one-third of the stomach. This area is where stomach contents are mixed, usually with buffering from food and saliva, so it doesn’t have as much natural protection from acid. If your horse’s stomach sits empty for long periods of time, excess acid can build up into the unprotected squamous mucosa and eat through the sensitive non-glandular mucosa.

Signs of gastric issues
Because damage to the delicate upper stomach lining is so painful, your horse might display a variety of negative side effects. Some horses go off their feed because large grain meals can increase stomach acid. Other horses may show decreased performance, especially if they’re worked on an empty stomach, as excess acid may splash around and irritate the non-glandular mucosa further. Formerly friendly horses may become cranky while being groomed or tacking up. If you’re concerned your horse may have gastric issues, you should have your veterinarian come out to diagnose your horse and come up with a treatment plan, which may include prescription medication and management changes.

How supplements can help
Gastric health supplements work in three primary ways—by providing ingredients to support the normal structure and function of your horse’s stomach, by serving up ingredients that can help buffer sensitive stomach structures against acid, and by offering ingredients that can help soothe any existing irritation. Since gastric issues are so common, a wide variety of horses may benefit from this type of support on a daily basis.

Ingredients to look for

Calcium and magnesium: These two macrominerals can help neutralize excess stomach acid.

Glycine: This amino acid has been shown to inhibit gastric secretions and protect gastric mucosa against stress.¹

Glutamine: This amino acid plays a critical role in the repair of intestinal tissues, including your horse’s stomach lining.

Pectin: This structural carbohydrate has many benefits for horses, including protecting the stomach against gastric lesions.²

Lecithin: This fatty substance has been shown to protect gastric tissue in several animal species, including horses, by supporting the stomach’s defense systems in two ways. First, it forms a barrier between stomach contents and epithelial cells, and second, it helps with cell membrane turnover and wound resealing.²

Sea buckthorn: The berries of the sea buckthorn shrub provide a wide range of compounds whose antioxidant and immune-modulatory properties assist in normal GI tissue healing and repair. Research has shown that this ingredient may help prevent stomach ulcers in horses who are stalled and undergoing intermittent feeding.³

Aloe vera: The gel inside aloe vera leaves has a demonstrated effect on GI tissue,⁴ most likely due to antioxidant and cell-protective properties.

Licorice: One of the most widely used herbs for people and animals, licorice is used for its action on inflammation, healing, and gastric upset.⁵

Choosing the right gastric supplement for your horse

Whether your horse has had previous stomach problems, or is exposed to risk factors such as training, travel, large infrequent meals, or other stress, it’s a smart choice to provide him with a daily gastric health supplement. If your horse needs basic support to help maintain his stomach health, choose a formula that has a few key ingredients at low to moderate levels. If your horse is under stress from training, competing, traveling, and/or living in a stall or has occasional gastric problems, look for a supplement that includes a comprehensive selection of ingredients at higher levels.

Smart & Simple Aloe Vera Pellets

– The convenient way to give aloe vera

U-Gard® Pellets

– Helps neutralize excess gastric acid

SmartGut® Ultra Pellets

– Gastric support backed by research

When we developed our patented SmartGut® Ultra Pellets formula, we partnered with the leading gastric health researcher, Dr. Frank Andrews of Louisiana State University, to conduct a clinical research study.

Study Methods
A blinded, two-period crossover study was performed. During the first 14 days, both the control group and test group received GastroGard^® to establish a healthy baseline stomach. Between days 14 and 28, the control group received a placebo while the test group received SmartGut Ultra. During that time period, both groups of horses were exposed to stress, including stall confinement.

Study Results
The control group had significantly higher scores on day 28, which represents declining stomach health. As a result, the researchers concluded that SmartGut Ultra helped maintain stomach health
in horses under stress.

Learn more at SmartPak.com/SGUResearch

Graph footnotes:
– All horses were given GastroGard^® from Day 1–14 in order to start with a healthy stomach.
– Stress included stall confinement and rebound acid production associated with discontinuing GastroGard.

SOURCE: Excerpted from a blinded, two-period crossover study conducted by Dr. Frank Andrews, Louisiana State University.

Find the Research

Zhong Z, Wheeler MD, Li X, et al. L-glycine: a novel anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and cytoprotective agent. Curr Opin Clin Nutri Metab Care. 2003 Mar;6(2):229-40.
Venner M, Lauffs S, Deegan E. Treatment of gastric lesions in horses with pectin-lecithin complex. Equine Vet J Suppl. 1999 Apr;(29):91-6.
Huff NK, Auer AD, Garza F Jr, Keowen ML, Kearney MT, McMullin RB, Andrews FM. Effect of sea buckthorn berries and pulp in a liquid emulsion on gastric ulcer scores and gastric juice pH in horses. J Vet Intern Med. 2012 Sep-Oct;26(5):1186-91.
Avijgan M, Kamran A, Abedini A. Effectiveness of aloe vera gel in chronic ulcers in comparison with conventional treatments. Iran J Med Sci. 2016 May;41(3Suppl):S30.
Aly AM, Al-Alousi L, Salem HA. Licorice: a possible anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer drug. AAPS PharmSciTech. 2005 Sep 20;6(1):E74-82.

Relax and Enjoy the Ride

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 23:30:00 +0000

Does looking at the number of calming supplements make you want to spin and bolt? We’ll help you choose the ideal formula for your horse so you can both enjoy your rides.

Understanding Calming Supplements
Several types of ingredients can be found in calming supplements. Some supplements include nutrients, some include herbs, and others include adaptogenic botanicals. Some combine ingredient types for a multi-pronged approach to calming. Supplements to support “moody mares” may
have additional ingredients.

Choosing Calming Support
There are multiple approaches to calming supplements because there are multiple reasons a horse might not act like himself. Are there any physical, mental, or environmental reasons for your horse’s behavior to have changed? Does his tack fit well, is his dental care current, is he getting the right diet and turnout?

If all those factors are in order after consulting with equine professionals like your veterinarian and trainer, a nutrient-based calming supplement is a good place to start. This helps ensure your horse is not deficient in key vitamins or minerals, plus provides higher levels of certain beneficial amino acids. After a couple of months, if you’re not seeing the results you’re looking for, try switching to or adding on an herbal-based supplement. For some horses, providing adaptogenic botanicals, specialty herbs that “rebalance” the horse’s nervous and other systems, could be just the ticket.

Ingredients to Look For

Nutrients
As the word “nutrients” suggests, calming supplements with these types of ingredients provide vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that should already be part of your horse’s normal diet. Horses that aren’t getting enough of the nutrients necessary for proper nervous system function may be anxious, overreactive, or unfocused. This category of ingredients can bring your horse’s dietary levels into the optimal range for a healthy, correctly functioning nervous system.

Magnesium: A macro mineral, is a key player in nervous system function. One of the clinical signs of magnesium deficiency is nervousness so many riders find that supplementing with magnesium helps their horses to stay relaxed.¹

Thiamine: Also known as Vitamin B1, is important in the normal transmission of impulses along nerves. Supplementing with Thiamine helps ensure your horse is getting enough for his nervous system to function normally.

Tryptophan: An essential amino acid, which means it needs to be supplied in your horse’s diet. It’s converted by the body into serotonin, which may help increase feelings of well-being and contentment.

Taurine: An amino acid found in high concentrations in the electrically active tissues such as the brain and muscle. It stabilizes membranes and assists in the movement of electrolytes, which is critical for proper nervous system function and muscle health.

Herbs
An herb is a plant typically with a culinary or therapeutic use to people. Some have been classified as “nervines,” which are herbs with specific actions on the nervous system. Others have been found to support the reproductive system. If you’ve tried nutrients and didn’t see the results you were looking for – or liked the results but think your horse could use additional support – adding a calming supplement with herbs (by itself or with nutrients) may be an appropriate next step.

Raspberry Leaf: Supports smooth muscle in the reproductive and digestive tracts, to help moody mares remain comfortable.

Chamomile: Another herb that supports nervous system function, is especially beneficial for horses who process their nervousness through their gastrointestinal system.

Valerian: A potent herb that may help balance the nervous system. Because it can also help address muscle cramps associated with tension, it’s helpful for horses that hold their anxiety in muscles

Adaptogenic Botanicals
Adaptogenic botanicals are specialty herbs which may help the body “adapt to” or cope with physical, mental, and environmental stress. The active compounds are found in various parts of the different plants, such as the flowers, stems, leaves, fruit, or even roots, and are thought to normalize body functions and strengthen systems compromised by stress. The ability to restore homeostasis is a gentle approach to rebalancing the body’s internal processes.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera): An adaptogen that is believed to settle the brain of anxious thoughts while supporting normal function and focus. This botanical has been widely recommended in Traditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years.²

Golden Root (Rhodiola rosea): Has long been considered to have adaptogenic properties that promote optimal physical and mental performance. Over 140 active compounds have been identified in the root alone.³

Five-Flavor Fruit (Schisandra chinensis): Has adaptogenic properties used for centuries to support the body’s ability to respond to stress, promote normal energy levels and stamina, and fight off fatigue and lack of focus.⁴

Siberian Ginseng
(Eleutherococcus senticosus):
An adaptogenic botanical that has been used in China for thousands of years to support energy and stamina, as well as restore memory and concentration.⁵

Smart & Simple Raspberry Leaf

SmartMare Harmony Pellets

SmartCalm Pellets

Quiessence

SmartCalm Ultra Pellets

SmartT

IT Project Manager

Fri, 29 Jan 2021 22:31:24 +0000

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

IT project management is part project management, part technology operations and part general management. IT project managers plan, organize, and integrate cross-functional IT projects that are significant in scope and impact. They coordinate the work of other IT professionals and stakeholders to produce a new piece or system of software. The core elements of the job are about gathering requirements, organizing people, and seeing the project through from inception to completion. Project managers have ultimate responsibility for ensuring that the project delivered by the IT team meets the business’ needs.

The IT PM organizes project meetings, works with a cross functional team to set deadlines, run scrums, manage backlogs, intake requests, as well as plan IT capacity/resources. The PM will Monitor and communicate the progress of projects against defined plans, budget and requirements to leadership. We’re a hybrid Agile shop, so the right candidate will have strong hybrid Agile PM experience.

This specific role will focus primarily on delivering SmartPak’s IT Infrastructure and EDW/BI projects, including migrations, upgrades, etc. However, the candidate should have the necessary skills to flex to projects involving eCommerce retail customer experience enhancements or internal enterprise application implementations/enhancements as needed.

The candidate for this position will have demonstrated experience in delivering large IT projects successfully, on budget and on time as well as have the necessary collaboration skills to motivate team members, focus on customer needs and deliver project objectives. This position requires excellent IT technical knowledge of project management disciplines, practices and deliverables.

This individual must possess excellent organization and communication skills. The IT PM must also have a well-rounded background in the IT field and stay abreast of new technologies – including new project management techniques and tools.

Essential Job Functions

Ensure the complete execution of IT Infrastructure projects to time, budget and capability commitments
Develop and manage project plans, goals, and budgets, identifying the resources needed for success
Schedule and facilitate project scrums, kick-off meetings, requirements meetings, project demos and project retrospectives.
Facilitate the definition of project missions, goals, tasks, service levels and resource requirements
Resolve conflicts within and between projects or functional areas
Assemble and coordinate project team members and resources while assigning individual responsibilities to meet the project’s goal.
Develop methods to monitor project or area progress, and provide corrective direction if necessary
Plan, prepare and disseminate project communications to the project team and to the business.
Schedule and facilitate project retrospective meetings for continuous process improvement
Manage project time entry in the IT team’s time tracking system
Maintain project documentation, including meeting notes and other project artifacts
Work with executive management on project prioritization and steering committee presentations

Other Major Duties and Responsibilities

Contribute to the advancement of project management best practices
You may be required to undertake other duties from time to time as we may reasonably require

Qualifications

3+ years of Project/Portfolio management experience, focus on IT infrastructure, EDW/BI projects, including migrations and upgrades
A solid understanding of PMI project methodology and how to apply it to real world situations
Basic software product development experience, including understanding the fundamentals of iterative software development processes and procedures
Exceptional technical and non-technical presentation and communication skills
Strong sense of accountability and exceptional follow-up skills
Adaptable and flexible working style, remaining calm under pressure, and adjusting comfortably to changing conditions and priorities
Good skills and knowledge of leadership, facilitation, situational awareness, conflict resolution, continuous improvement, empowerment, and increasing transparency
Proven planning and organization skills, prioritizing workload, and setting realistic timescales for yourself and others
Bachelor’s degree or higher
PMP or CAPM certification is a plus
Experience with Smartsheet is a plus
First level Scrum Master certification (CSM, PSM I) is a plus

CLICK HERE TO APPLY!

_{SmartPak is a subsidiary of Covetrus. Covetrus is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.}