Social Media Star or Legit Expert?
By Annie Emery
I have had so many conversations lately about people being VERY overwhelmed.
Too many opinions. Words.
Too many posts. Words.
Everyone offers nutrition education, thoughts on the best diet. Words.
What’s the deal?
Let’s be honest—these days, anyone can call themselves an expert online. There are more and more “nutritionists” everyday. But when it comes to your horse’s health, you need more than a good post or quick answer.
At Revolution Equine Nutrition, I believe in practical, evidence-based nutrition—without hype, sales pressure, or shortcuts. Here’s how you can recognize a true equine nutrition professional, whether you're looking for help near home or online. Ethics and quality matter to me, and they should matter to you as well.
Strong Evidence of Client Success & Real Results
An expert doesn’t just post pretty images and flashy posts—they work with real horses, in real situations. They should be able to point to success stories or case studies that show their approach works. This isn’t just in people they sponsor, but people who have paid outright for services.
This kind of experience builds trust far beyond any comment section. They should demonstrate results and knowledge about easy keepers, hard keepers, rescue horses, young horses, and a clear understanding of the latest diets for health conditions (as set by veterinary colleges- not Facebook!) Many consults are private, but you should see demonstration of subject matter proficiency over time.
Clear Reasons
A real professional doesn’t just sell you a bag of feed—they help you understand what your horse actually needs for their needs. They should be able to explain why something works, how to read a hay test, or what NRC guidelines are—without making it overwhelming.
Background Credentials
They should have a website that explains the credentials and degrees. They should not say they have credenitals that they do not (actually) have, and if they have a PhD they should explain what field it is in. Note: many talented people have a variety of skills, it’s the clarity and consistency of the titles that needs to be there. My bio was one of the first things I created.
They’re Independent (or Transparent)
A trustworthy professional isn’t there to sell you a supplement—they’re there to help you solve a problem. That’s why independence matters. Look for someone who doesn’t take commissions or sponsorships from feed companies—or at least is clear and upfront about any connections.
If they recommend a product, they should always explain why, not just say “because I use it.” Transparency builds confidence—and you deserve that.
Collaboration
…not competition. Look for someone who displays a willingness to learn and grow. Someone who works with bodyworkers, saddle fitters, veterinarians, and chiropractors. etc.
A true professional cares about what’s best for your horse, not pushing their method or program.
New Ideas
Is the professional demonstrating growth of ideas? Do they add new thoughts to the landscape? (Not that they are coming out of left field with wacky stuff, but do they add knowledge? explain things in a new way?) Be cautions of people who only parrot what they learned, the best experts are students themselves asking questions. They should regularly be looking at science literature from the veterinary journals and be able to explain when something warrants a “sea change” or when we leave standard practice “as is”. (See my other teachings on this subject).
Resources
The professional should link you to resources for more education (should that be needed) that is reputable such as from a veterinary college, academic source, or agricultural extension group.
If you're looking for help and aren’t sure where to start, I’m always happy to walk you through what a nutrition consult looks like. I work virtually with clients across the U.S. and Canada through Revolution Equine Nutrition, and my goal is always the same: support real horses, in real life, with grounded, science-backed guidance that actually works.