Clair Thunes, PhD, Author at The Horse

Clair Thunes, PhD

Clair Thunes, PhD, is an equine nutritionist who owns Clarity Equine Nutrition, based in Gilbert, Arizona. She works as a consultant with owners/trainers and veterinarians across the United States and globally to take the guesswork out of feeding horses and provides services to select companies. As a nutritionist she works with all equids, from WEG competitors to Miniature donkeys and everything in between. Born in England, she earned her undergraduate degree at Edinburgh University, in Scotland, and her master’s and doctorate in nutrition at the University of California, Davis. Growing up, she competed in a wide array of disciplines and was an active member of the U.K. Pony Club. Today, she serves as the district commissioner for the Salt River Pony Club.

Can My Horse Stay on a Forage Diet This Winter?

Posted by Clair Thunes, PhD | Oct 21, 2022 | Article, Body Condition, Commentary, Hay, Horse Care, Nutrition, Nutrition Basics, Pasture and Forages, Winter Care

An equine nutritionist explains how to make sure your summertime easy keeper remains healthy this winter.

Older Horse: From Too Fat to Too Thin

Posted by Clair Thunes, PhD | Oct 16, 2022 | Article, Basic Care, Body Condition, Commentary, Dental Problems, Digestive Tract Problems, Diseases and Conditions, Feeding Old Horses, Grains, Hay, Horse Care, Horse Nutrition Commentary Series, Metabolic Problems, Nutrition, Nutrition Basics, Older Horse Care Concerns, Ulcers

A once-heavy senior horse is struggling to hold condition after dental work. Our nutritionist weighs in.

Tips for Getting Horses to Eat Medications

Posted by Clair Thunes, PhD | Oct 10, 2022 | Article, Basic Care, Behavior, Behavior & Handling, Commentary, Cushing's Disease, Horse Care, Horse Nutrition Commentary Series, Medications, Metabolic Problems, Nutrition, Other Supplements

Do you struggle to get pills into your horse? Our nutritionist offers advice and some precautions.

Protecting Your Horse From Poisonous Fall Leaves

Posted by Clair Thunes, PhD | Oct 8, 2022 | Article, Commentary, Farm and Barn, Horse Care, Horse Nutrition Commentary Series, Nutrition, Pasture & Forage Management, Pasture and Forages, Poisoning & Toxicity, Seasonal Care

Is it okay for my horse to eat leaves that have fallen from trees in his pasture?

Can I Feed My Horse an Acid-Buffering Supplement Long-Term?

Posted by Clair Thunes, PhD | Sep 19, 2022 | Commentary, Digestive System, Digestive Tract Problems, Diseases and Conditions, Horse Care, Horse Nutrition Commentary Series, Nutrition, Other Supplements, Sports Medicine, Sports Nutrition, Supplements, Ulcers

Born to forage all day, horses constantly secrete stomach acid. Acid-buffers can help meal-fed horses, but will they create future problems? Find out from our equine nutrition expert.