Does anyone know a way to help a horse with recoveries. I know that the better in shape a horse is, the better their recoveries will be.  But is there anything else that will make them go down quicker besides being in wonderful shape?  It is just a question I have been wondering. I have ridden quite a few horses with terrible recoveries when you come to think of it.  If anyone has any advice, everything would be greatly appreciated! 

Thing I Already Do:

1. Get off the horse and walk in 1/4+ mile to vet check.

2. Loosen cinch when walking in to where i can fit a fist in between so he can catch his breath faster.

3. I keep the horse with his "buddies" so he is calm.

4. Take him STRAIGHT to the water when i get into a vet check and even let him nibble on some hay.

5. But i never let him chew on anything while getting their P&R's for it adds 2-4 beats.

6. Pour water over the horses neck and stomach and legs to cool him off.

Thats everything for a horse that doesn't pulse down well. It helps for some, but not for others. And all the horses i ride on races are well conditioned!  Thanx

-Erin