Re: RC: riding after feeding

[CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com]

In a message dated 11/8/99 10:08:18 AM Pacific Standard Time, 
meeks@palmnet.net writes:

<< Hi everyone!  Please do not laugh, but I have a question.  It has been
 drilled into my skull not to feed a horse, then ride him.  At he rides, hoe
 does everyone get around this?  I hear about feeding beet pulp, and grain,
 at the vet checks- how can you ride right after that?  Please be patient
 with me... >>

Forget that old wives' tale!  Horses that work as hard as endurance horses 
need to have a gut fill to keep things moving so that they continue to absorb 
and utilize what they have in their large colons and cecums.  The key to this 
is to have a good gut fill of quality roughage (hay, grass, beet pulp, 
whatever) BEFORE the event and to keep replenishing it during the event.  
What you DON'T want to do is feed a big load of carbohydrates that can 
ferment if the digestive process is slowed.  Feed any concentrates in small 
quantities frequently throughout the event if you feel your horse needs them. 
 I will get up in the middle of the night before a ride just to make sure 
that my horse still has plenty of hay in front of him...

Heidi


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