Ridecamp: Re: [RC] sweet feed & excited/nervous horses-Susan G?

In a message dated 8/14/2002 4:28:54 PM Central Daylight Time, guest@xxxxxxxxxxxxx writes:


> if there is any scientific data or research that has been done that proves that sweet feed really can affect a horse and make him more hyper or nervous?  

I talked this over with my vet very carefully before I made the switch.  She said that some horses can't tolerate simple carbohydrates very well.  Picture a little kid on Saturday morning tanked up on Dr. Pepper and a box of Krispy Kreme doughnuts.  But give him complex carbs, fiber, a moderate amount of protein, and some fat, and it's a different kid.

It worked on my horse.  Not only is he much better under saddle, he's calmer in his stall (he'd dug such a hole in his stall that we concreted the floor!), while trailering (he loads now), and while grooming.  He couldn't tolerate a good grooming on sweet feed; now, I can actually use a curry comb on him!  He also tolerates the extreme heat we've had this summer much better than he has in the past.

And he doesn't get any alfalfa, either!

          Elizabeth Braznell