Research Farm
The cornerstone of Kentucky Equine Research is its research facility in central Kentucky where nutrition and exercise physiology trials are conducted year-round. KER bases much of its consultation services and product development on the results of these trials.
Kentucky Equine Research is committed to furthering the understanding of equine nutrition for the betterment of all horses.
Scientific trials conducted at KER challenge well-established feeding practices in hopes of discovering more efficient ways to produce and maintain healthy horses. Each research trial is developed with practical applications in mind. Results of research studies are then disseminated at nutrition conferences worldwide and published in scientific journals and popular press periodicals. In addition, scientific results are shared with individuals in the feed industry who further dispense the knowledge to producers.
State-of-the-art technology and a resident herd of trained horses permit KER researchers to conduct high quality equine nutrition and exercise physiology studies. This technology includes a high-speed treadmill, a six-horse free walker, an indirect calorimeter, the equipment necessary for detailed investigation of nutrient metabolism at rest and during exercise, and an on-site analytical laboratory for biochemical analysis of blood and other samples. Groups of Thoroughbreds and Arabians are maintained in exercise training. The Thoroughbreds are used in studies which involve exercise protocols similar to competitive bouts performed by a racehorse or a three-day event horse. Similarly, the Arabians are used in low intensity, long duration exercise trials which simulate conditions of an endurance ride.
A major focus of these studies is determining how different diets and feeding practices affect metabolism during exercise. Two modern methodologies are used for this purpose. First, indirect calorimetry, which involves collection of samples of the horse's expired air, is used for measurement of oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production. From these measurements, total energy expenditure and the relative amounts of carbohydrate and fat utilized are calculated. The second method involves use of stable isotope tracers for direct measurement of the utilization of specific nutrients, such as glucose, fatty acids and amino acids.
Digestibility studies are also performed at KER. These studies are conducted using specially designed harnesses that permit the complete and separate collection of urine and feces. Absorption and retention of nutrients can then be determined from analysis of feed, blood, urine and feces.
