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Re: [RC] Heat and Conditioning - heidiOkay, since we're on the subject, I could use some input as well. Storm doesn't like to start drinking until after 20 miles. On our first attempt at a 50, I decided to try without elytes to see how he would do. He drank some before 20 miles, then drank well from about 25 miles on. Ate consistenly along the trail & at vet checks. Had A's for gut sounds, B's on hydration, but by the time we were at about the 42/43 mile point, he was C on hydration even though he had been drinking lots. Next time, should I start elyting after he starts drinking to help him rehydrate quicker? Kathy If he isn't catching himself back up, then yes, he is likely a horse that needs an elyte boost. The horses that don't need elytes sometimes won't drink the first loop either, and may drop a grade--but then they get better again as the day goes on. And yes, once he starts drinking is the time to do it. Am curious, though--when you say you decided to try it without elytes--does that mean you always gave them before? Did you ever try riding him without them in the beginning, or has he always had that crutch, so now he is dependent on it? And how well does he eat? Does he really scarf down hay or grass? Heidi ============================================================ Common sense should also be a part of the decision making process. If you see someone who doesn't have any, hand them your tool box. ~ Lisa Salas - The Odd Farm ridecamp.net information: http://www.endurance.net/ridecamp/ ============================================================
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