In this 3rd installment of Dr. Alberto Rullan’s conversation with KC LaPierre, co-founder of the Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry, they explore LaPierre’s educational framework and the development of his patented hoofwear system. Take a closer look at LaPierre’s applied equine podiatry program, designed to meet the needs of dedicated horse owners and professionals alike. Through monthly classes, international teaching, and level-based learning that includes radiology and gait analysis, KC LaPierre has built a comprehensive and community-driven approach to equine foot care.

In this episode, you’ll learn: 

• How the Applied Equine Podiatry curriculum differs from traditional farrier schools
• The importance of creating a global alumni network for continuing education
• Why LaPierre believes elasticity, not rigidity, is key to hoof support
• The science behind Perfect Hoofwear and how it mimics natural hoof function
• How the Trinity Shoe is reshaping balance and performance from the ground up

Be sure to catch parts one and two of this series for the full picture. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and rate the podcast! And if you’d like to keep the conversation going, connect with us on social @pevsocala and @albertorullanvm! 

KC LaPierre’s Links
https://appliedequinepodiatry.org
https://perfecthoofwear.com
https://hooflevel.com

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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In this second installment of our deep dive into applied equine podiatry, Dr. Alberto Rullan continues his conversation with KC LaPierre, a respected expert in hoof health and founder of a global training program dedicated to equine foot care. Together, they unpack the reasons why more farriers, veterinarians, and horse owners are seeking alternative approaches when traditional methods no longer produce results.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What to expect during the transition from traditional shoeing to applied podiatry
• How frog health and the digital cushion impact long-term movement and performance
• Why the “Spectrum of Usability” is used to assess and guide individualized rehab
• How applied equine podiatry fits within a team-based model of care
• Why education, not competition, is the future of foot-focused equine wellness

Stay tuned for Part 3, where KC breaks down the rigorous 18-month program that’s preparing a new generation of foot care specialists around the world.

Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and rate the podcast, and connect with us on social @pevsocala and @albertorullanvm. We’re here to support your stride above!

KC LaPierre’s Links
https://appliedequinepodiatry.org/
https://perfecthoofwear.com
https://hooflevel.com

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to A Stride Above! In this episode, Dr. Alberto Rulan is joined by KC LaPierre, co-founder of the Institute of Applied Equine Podiatry, for a discussion on what truly goes into caring for a horse’s foot. Together, they unpack the philosophy, science, and controversy surrounding traditional farriery, barefoot trimming, and applied equine podiatry.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
• What applied equine podiatry actually is and how it’s different from farriery
• Why KC moved away from shoeing after 45 years as a farrier
• What “holistic” really means in hoof care (and why it’s not just “natural”)
• How the foot affects the whole horses circulation, nerves, and more
• When it might be time to move beyond conventional hoof care

More than just theory, this episode challenges long-held assumptions about hoof care and opens the door to a more informed, whole-horse approach. Be sure to subscribe, follow and reach out to us on social media @pevsocala and @albertorullanvm! You won’t want to miss part two, where we’ll dive into how to know when it’s time to try something different and what that might look like.

KC LaPierre’s Links
https://appliedequinepodiatry.org/
https://perfecthoofwear.com
https://hooflevel.com

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to A Stride Above!  In this episode, Dr. Alberto Rulan is joined once again by small animal veterinarian Dr. Katherine O’Brien from Maricamp Animal Hospital for a special conversation that shifts the spotlight to the furry friends in our homes. Whether you’re a devoted dog parent or a curious cat owner, this episode is filled with valuable takeaways on how to keep your pets healthy, pain-free, and thriving.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:
 • The most common condition affecting pets in Florida and what you can do about it
 • The truth behind “allergy shots” and why not all treatments are created equal
 • Why dental health is critical to your pet’s long-term wellness and how to spot early signs of disease
 • How to know if your pet is silently suffering from arthritis and what modern regenerative therapies are available
 • Practical, proactive ways to prevent pain, inflammation, and disease in your dog or cat

Whether you're a dog lover, cat owner, or just want to learn more about small animal wellness, this episode is full of practical advice to help your pets live longer, healthier lives. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and subscribe. Please feel free to also reach out to us on social media @pevsocala and @albertorullanvmd, or by calling 352-624-0380. We’re here to support your journey that’s truly a stride above!

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to Stride Above! In this follow-up episode, Dr. Alberto Rulan is once again joined by his wife, Dr. Katherine O’Brien for an honest and deep conversation about work-life balance in the veterinary world. They unpack what balance really looks like when you’re building a business, raising kids, and trying to grow in other areas of life. For them it’s not about separation, it’s about integration.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:
• How integrating family and business responsibilities has strengthened work-life balance
• The shift from burnout to purpose-driven routines
• The difference between true rest and avoidance and how to structure time for maximum impact
• Practical ways to take care of yourself and why self-care means getting better, not checking out

If you’ve ever felt pressure to “have it all together” or questioned what balance even means, this episode offers a grounded and inspiring perspective. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and subscribe and if it resonates, reach out to us on social @pevsocala or @albertorullanvmd. We’re here to support your journey that’s truly a stride above.

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to A Stride Above! Today’s special episode is joined by a very important guest, Dr. Alberto Rulan’s wife, Dr. Katherine O’Brien. Together, they open up about what it’s really like to manage two demanding veterinary careers, raise a family, and build thriving businesses, all while staying connected and aligned as a couple.

In this episode, you’ll learn about:
• The unexpected advantages and honest challenges of building a life with another veterinarian.
• How they separate work and home life to avoid burnout and support each other as partners.
• How they structure their daily routine to prioritize health, family time, and personal development.
• A powerful framework for choosing the right mentors and why success at work isn’t enough.
• A behind-the-scenes look at what they wish they knew earlier in their careers and what they’d do differently if starting today.
• Honest advice for young veterinarians feeling the pressure of debt, burnout, or finding “balance” in the early years.

If you’ve ever wondered how two busy professionals manage to build strong businesses and a strong relationship, this episode is packed with honest insight and takeaways. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and rate the show, we appreciate your support. See you next week for more expert tips on staying a stride above!

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to A Stride Above! In today’s episode, we’re diving into one of the most crucial topics for horse buyers—pre-purchase examinations. Finding the right horse is challenging enough, but ensuring they’re healthy and suited to your program adds another layer of complexity. Join us as we discuss insights from thousands of pre-purchase exams conducted over the years. 

In this episode, you’ll discover:
 • Why a pre-purchase exam is like taking a snapshot: it provides valuable insight into a horse’s current condition but doesn’t predict the future.
 • How to interpret radiographic findings, including common changes in the neck and back, and whether they truly impact performance.
 • The importance of considering a horse’s overall suitability for your program rather, than searching for perfection in x-rays.
 • Why "pass or fail" no longer applies in modern evaluations and how to approach pre-purchase exams with a team mentality.

If you’re in the market for a horse or just want to understand more about the process, this episode is packed with must-know information! Have questions? Feel free to reach out through our social media channels. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and rate the podcast—we appreciate your support! Join us next week for more expert insights to keep you and your horse a stride above the rest.

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to A Stride Above! In today’s episode, we are honored to have Susan Thomas join us for an in-depth discussion on the Pura Raza Española (P.R.E.) breed. With nearly two decades of experience working with Iberian sport horses, Susan shares her passion and expertise on this remarkable breed, highlighting their unique characteristics and care requirements.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• What makes the P.R.E. breed so special, from their beauty and temperament to their adaptability in disciplines such as dressage and working equitation. 
• How their origins in rugged Spanish and Mexican terrains contribute to their sturdy build and exceptional minds. 
• Important nutritional considerations for P.R.E. horses, including their tendency to be easy keepers and the need for a low-sugar, low-carb diet. 
• Hoof care best practices, including the breed’s predisposition to contracted heels and why many P.R.E. horses thrive without shoes. 
• The significance of a strong relationship between veterinarians, farriers, and owners to ensure the best care for these horses.

Susan also discusses the growing popularity of the P.R.E. breed in the U.S. and the importance of educating new owners to provide the best possible care. If you’re considering adding a P.R.E. to your stable or simply want to learn more about this historic and noble breed, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

If you have any questions or want to connect with Susan, you can find her business, MexPRE Horses, online at https://mexprehorses.com/ or their social media channels. Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and rate our podcast, we truly appreciate your support! Join us again for more expert insights and discussions on equine health and performance.

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to A Stride Above! In today’s episode, we’re thrilled to have special guest Andrew Vanlangendonck. Join us as we explore the distinct challenges of managing show horses during the winter months. Andrew brings a wealth of experience with thoroughbreds, having been raised in a family that focused on their sale.

In this episode, you’ll discover: 
• The significance of evaluating a horse's tendon injuries and how winter doesn't significantly alter the rehabilitation approach.
• Andrew's favored rehabilitation methods, starting with aquapacer sessions before moving on to pool work, which he considers one of the top tools for equine fitness and recovery.
• The necessity of conducting regular physical examinations on horses to identify minor issues early and determine when it’s time to consult a veterinarian.
• Signs that indicate when a horse is ready to resume full power training, including a well-mannered attitude and a lively, energetic look.

If you have any questions or wish to delve deeper into winter rehabilitation for horses, feel free to connect with us via our social media platforms! Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and rate our podcast—we truly appreciate your support! Join us next week for more expert insights and discussions on keeping your horse healthy and happy throughout the seasons.

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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Welcome back to A Stride Above! In today’s episode, we’re tackling some pressing questions about what happens when a horse goes to a show and then returns home feeling under the weather. We’ll explore topics such as: Can they compete? Is it infectious? What should you do if your horse gets sick after a show?

In this episode, you’ll learn about:
• The potential for horses to contract contagious virus infections at shows.
• Alberto's approach to handling these situations, focusing on natural immune medicine and remedies before considering antibiotics, which can significantly support the immune system.
•How to diagnose the source of the infection to determine the best course of action for recovery and future competitions.
•The risks of “shipping fever” after long trailer rides, which can lead to serious respiratory issues, emphasizing the importance of contacting a vet immediately.

If you have any more questions or want to dive deeper into these topics, feel free to reach out through our social media channels! Don’t forget to subscribe, follow, and rate this podcast—we truly appreciate your support! Join us next week for more insightful discussions and tips on keeping your horse healthy and happy.

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Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD
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