"Easy Keeper" Horses Are a Warning Sign… Here's Why with Dr Kent Tooman sponsored by Pegasus Training & Rehabilitation Center

In this episode of Dear Horse World, equine veterinarian Dr. Kent Tooman breaks down the truth about equine metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and why more horses than ever are at risk of laminitis.

Dr. Kent Tooman is an experienced equine veterinarian with over 30 years in practice, specializing in performance horses and metabolic health.

In this episode you will learn:

• What's really happening inside your horse's body
• Why "easy keepers" may be misunderstood
• The subtle signs most owners miss (including fat deposits and barn blindness)
• Breed predispositions (ponies, Arabs, draft crosses, and more)
• Practical steps to reduce risk and manage weight safely

• How insulin affects your horse's health

• The connection between weight, metabolism, and laminitis

• Why modern horse management is increasing risk

• How to spot early warning signs before it's too late

If you care about better horse health, training, and management, subscribe for more expert conversations.

This episode is sponsored by Pegasus Training & Rehabilitation Center

Here at Pegasus, our mission is to run a first class horse training, rehabilitation, and conditioning facility; provide horses of all disciplines with full and complete care of the highest quality; partner with our clients to ensure that we not only meet, but exceed, their individual goals and needs; and maintain our facility and equipment with the highest level of care.

To find out more about Pegasus - website | instagram | facebook

Chapters:

0:00 – The "Easy Keeper" Myth (Why This Matters)
1:12 – Meet Dr. Kent Tooman
3:45 – Why More Horses Are Developing Metabolic Issues
6:20 – What Is Equine Metabolic Syndrome?
9:10 – Insulin Explained (Simple Breakdown)
12:30 – Where Fat Shows Up (Signs Most Owners Miss)
16:15 – Barn Blindness: Why You Don't See the Problem
20:40 – Breed Risk: Ponies, Arabs & "Thrifty" Horses
25:10 – Why Modern Horses Are Getting Overweight
30:25 – The Link Between Weight & Laminitis
35:50 – How to Reduce Risk (Practical Steps)
41:30 – Feeding, Exercise & Management Mistakes
47:10 – Can This Be Reversed?
52:00 – The Future: Ozempic for Horses?
56:30 – Final Advice for Horse Owners

⚠️ Disclaimer - This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice.