older horse/winter weight loss

Flemmer, Linda (LFlemmer@CHKD.com)
Tue, 24 Dec 1996 07:57:31 -0500

Our oldest horse (mid teens) has trouble keeping weight on in the
winter. His teeth were floated a couple of months ago (and were in good
shape before the floating per the dentist), he is on free choice timothy
hay and 8 lbs of 12% Tiz Whiz pellets (a premium feed meant to be fed
with hay) broken into 3 feedings daily which is all that he is willing
to eat). He is fed separately so that nobody steals his food. He is on
a rotating worming schedule every 4 weeks since pasture space is tight
(3/4 acre/horse). During the winter, his work load is weekly slow rides
of 10-15 miles, weather permitting.

We are thinking of adding something like Power Plus, but have never fed
it. My understanding is that it helps the horse digest his feed better.
Has anyone that used it care to share their experience? How much do
you feed. What size containers is it sold in? Is there a dealer on the
East Coast (better yet Virginia) to cut down on the shipping?

Are there other suggestions for us? This horse will not eat beet pulp
or equine senior (turns his nose up at it and eats more hay). During
the summer when the grass comes in, he has no problem keeping his weight
up.

Thanks!

Linda Flemmer