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 Hot tamales burn themselves out early.  Have you 
tried liquid Pro Bi for gut sounds?  As soon as we come into a check, Malik 
gets an apple or carrot and by the time the vet gets to checking, his gut sounds 
are usually pretty good.  I am ashamed to say I don't condition as much as 
most riders...I am lucky to have a stallion who keeps himself pretty fit so I 
just throw in either a short, fast ride now and again or a longer, slower 
one depending on time, weather, etc.  I also team pen occasionally...I find 
sometimes my horse needs more personal attention to be "happy" and not be 
bored...so we play "beauty shop" periodically, too.  He loves it and it 
bonds us in a way nothing else can.  Vary the routine at home and away as 
much as you can.  Maybe you can find someone to buddy up with at a ride and 
see how your horse goes then.  Malik is used to riding with a buddy but 
will also go by himself... I, too, find he bores easily alone though and it's a 
challenge to keep him motivated sometimes.  Singing, talking, changing 
gaits, taking a break help break the monotony for him.  Hope this 
helps. 
Maggie 
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