How Nutrition Transformed an EMS Horse: Dancer’s Journey to Health, Trust & Comfort

For many adult amateurs, finding that first equine partner is a defining milestone. When Susan brought home Dancer—a bright, sensitive mare with a background in low-level dressage—she hoped for a partner to learn and grow with. What she didn’t expect was the journey they would take together: one filled with challenges, breakthroughs, and a complete transformation grounded in nutrition, compassionate care, and trust-building.

A Mare With a Complicated Past

Early in their partnership, it became clear Dancer carried the marks of her past. She had endured poor treatment and lacked a stable, supportive environment. Her discomfort often showed up as:

• Defensive or aggressive behavior
• Difficulty focusing during work
• Sensitivity to touch and grooming
• Resistance in training and handling

These weren’t personality flaws—they were her way of communicating.

Uncovering the Role of Metabolism and Digestive Stress

As Susan listened more closely, she began noting patterns. Veterinary evaluation and nutrition review revealed that Dancer was dealing with:

• Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS)
• Underlying digestive discomfort
• Nutrient gaps from an incomplete forage-based diet

The solution required a tailored, science-backed approach. With guidance from Equine Balanced Support, Susan implemented a structured plan centered on:

• Forage-first nutrition and thoughtful hay selection
• High-quality vitamin and mineral balancing to support systemic health
• Careful NSC management for metabolic stability
• A digestive program featuring SUCCEED®, which had a noticeable behavioral effect

As Dancer’s digestive system and metabolic health were supported, her mood began to brighten. Her sensitivity diminished, her focus improved, and her work became more relaxed and willing.

Rebuilding Trust Through Compassionate, Metabolic-Safe Rewards

One of the most important pieces of Dancer’s transformation was rebuilding trust.

Because Dancer had metabolic concerns, traditional sugary treats weren’t a safe option—yet reward-based training mattered deeply to her emotional rehabilitation.

When Susan introduced Grazers Nutri-Treats, everything changed:

• Dancer became genuinely eager for positive reinforcement
• Training sessions became calmer and more connected
• Their relationship deepened session by session
• She could enjoy treats without compromising her metabolic health

Grazers quickly became her favorite—and a quiet cornerstone of her healing.

A Transformation Rooted in Being Understood

Dancer was an extremely intelligent mare who often tried to communicate her discomfort through what looked like aggressive behavior. Once her issues were finally identified and properly addressed, she transformed into a completely different horse.

She had never been on a truly sound nutritional program before. With Equine Balanced Support’s expertise, she was finally able to thrive—healthy, comfortable, and understood.

“I would never have progressed with Dancer without the wealth of care, support, training and nutrition knowledge provided by Elizabeth King.” — Susan

Why Stories Like Dancer’s Matter

At Equine Balanced Support, we believe horses communicate long before they break. When we slow down, listen, and support them with species-appropriate nutrition, we give them the chance to heal, express themselves, and step into the life they were meant to live.

Dancer’s journey is a reminder that:

• Nutrition is emotional care.
• Behavior is often a symptom.
• Trust grows where comfort begins.
• Every horse deserves a chance to be understood.

If you’re navigating metabolic concerns, digestive issues, or trust-building with your horse, our team is here to help you piece it together with compassion and clarity.

Click here to connect with us—we’d be honored to support your horse’s journey.