Re: RC: Electrolyte Comparison

[DreamWeaver <karen@chaton.gardnerville.nv.us>]

At 09:48 AM 05/29/2000 -0400, Onefarmgirl@aol.com wrote:

>Absolutely.   Plus, might we develop a highly unscientific data base over
>time by noting total volume of elytes given, mileage, ambient temp/humidity,
>and outcome?

Hi Pat:  There are so many variables that this would probably be a near 
impossible task.  The only real way to know what is going on is to have 
blood drawn and do an on-site analysis.  I think that weighing the horses 
is also vital, since the point of using electrolytes is to keep a horse 
hydrated (and therefore, not dropping huge amounts of weight due to fluid 
loss).  Otherwise I don't think anybody can really know how well or not 
their electrolytes are working.

I have started putting data from my Pride Project testing into a 
spreadsheet.  Maybe I could put the onsite bloodwork from a ride or two 
showing electrolytes.  Course this may or may not be helpful to people who 
are using a different kind of electrolyte than I use, or manage their 
horses differently, or ride differently....<bg> (see, lots of 
variables!)   I think somebody could use the same protocol as I do, but if 
their horse isn't drinking well the results would be totally 
different......I don't think it is wise to try and copy what somebody else 
does (we all have to figure it out for ourselves).  Helpful, aren't I? :+)

Happy Trails,

Karen
in NV
& Rocky, 2,665 miles
& Weaver, 3,255 miles
http://members.xoom.com/ridephotos/