A Stride Above!

Performance Equine Veterinary Services

Welcome to "A Stride Above Podcast," where our love for horses and dedication to their well-being brings us together! Your Host, Dr Alberto Rullan, an ISELP-certified Equine Sports Medicine Veterinarian and Owner of Performance Equine Veterinary Services and Equine Performance Innovative Center (EPIC) is here to guide you through the latest in horse care, health, and performance. The bond between a horse and its owner is profound, built on trust, understanding, and a deep commitment to their health and happiness. It's our goal to nurture that bond through education and information, making complex veterinary knowledge accessible and actionable for you.You can expect biweekly episodes to gallop into a range of topics essential for every horse owner. From innovative treatment options that are redefining equine care, to practical advice on recognizing early signs of health issues, we're covering it all. Our focus is on prevention, early detection, and the latest advancements in treatments to ensure your horse can reach their peak performance abilities. Together, we'll ensure that you and your horses always remain a stride above the rest!

  1. 25/11/2025

    Ep 49 - Bridging Education & Biomechanics in Equine Podiatry with KC LaPierre (Pt 3)

    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 schoolsThe importance of creating a global alumni network for continuing educationWhy LaPierre believes elasticity, not rigidity, is key to hoof supportThe science behind Perfect Hoofwear and how it mimics natural hoof functionHow the Trinity Shoe is reshaping balance and performance from the ground upBe 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 Links For You: • Our Website • Facebook • Instagram • Youtube Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD • Website • LinkedIn • Instagram

    17 min
  2. 11/11/2025

    Ep 48 - Interpreting the Hoof’s Internal Health with Equine Podiatrist KC LaPierre Pt 2

    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 Links For You: • Our Website • Facebook • Instagram • Youtube Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD • Website • LinkedIn • Instagram

    14 min
  3. 24/06/2025

    Ep 46 - Small Animal Expertise & Pet Wellness with Dr. Alberto Rullan and Dr. Katherine O'Brien

    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! Links For You: • Our Website • Facebook • Instagram • Youtube Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD • Website • LinkedIn • Instagram

    16 min
  4. 27/05/2025

    Ep 44 - An Introduction + Mentorship with Dr. Katherine O'Brien: Running Two Clinics, Raising Kids, & Marriage

    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! Links For You: • Our Website • Facebook • Instagram • Youtube Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD • Website • LinkedIn • Instagram

    18 min
  5. 18/03/2025

    Ep 43 - Importance Of Pre-Purchase Exams

    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. Links For You: • Our Website • Facebook • Instagram • Youtube Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD • Website • LinkedIn • Instagram

    11 min
  6. 04/03/2025

    Ep 42 - Unlocking the Secrets of the P.R.E.: Care, Training, and History with Susan Thomas

    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. Links For You: • Our Website • Facebook • Instagram • Youtube Dr. Alberto Rullan, VMD • Website • LinkedIn • Instagram

    20 min

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Welcome to "A Stride Above Podcast," where our love for horses and dedication to their well-being brings us together! Your Host, Dr Alberto Rullan, an ISELP-certified Equine Sports Medicine Veterinarian and Owner of Performance Equine Veterinary Services and Equine Performance Innovative Center (EPIC) is here to guide you through the latest in horse care, health, and performance. The bond between a horse and its owner is profound, built on trust, understanding, and a deep commitment to their health and happiness. It's our goal to nurture that bond through education and information, making complex veterinary knowledge accessible and actionable for you.You can expect biweekly episodes to gallop into a range of topics essential for every horse owner. From innovative treatment options that are redefining equine care, to practical advice on recognizing early signs of health issues, we're covering it all. Our focus is on prevention, early detection, and the latest advancements in treatments to ensure your horse can reach their peak performance abilities. Together, we'll ensure that you and your horses always remain a stride above the rest!