Re: RC: RE: Glucosmine discussion

[CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com]

In a message dated Sun, 11 Feb 2001  3:29:37 PM Eastern Standard Time, "Bob Morris" <bobmorris@rmci.net> writes:

<< I believe the question should be; "If your horse requires these substances,
should you be riding in competition? Is it fair to the horse?">>
<snip>
<<If your stage of competition necessitates these
supplements, should you not question the status of your selection, training
and conditioning programs as well as your support policies for the horse?>>
<snip>
<<we contend that all these supplements are not necessary
for the general run of competitors. If you are going to engage in FEI level
competition, then PERHAPS. For 90% of the endurance riders NO.>>

Bob said a mouthful here.  Yes, there may well be some merit in using these sorts of products in the "on-the-edge" competitor who is putting himself on the line to the max, but for most endurance horses, good health should be a matter of selecting a horse that is suited to the job, good conditioning, good nutrition, and smart riding.  If you have to use these sorts of products to get a horse through rides, then the horse likely should be doing something less strenuous!  Either that, or you need to be getting to the actual root of the problem--whether it is an injury that needs more time off or a different rehab program, or a lack of conditioning, or simply the horse needs to slow down or do a few less miles because he is not suited to what he is doing.  No amount of "nutraceuticals" can make up for aptitude, soundness, or fitness...

Heidi