I have always heard that rhubarb leaves
contain oxalic acid and are "poisonous" to horses/livestock. We have a
patch on the opposite side of the pipe-paneled paddock in which our horses
stay. I have installed 2" square woven wire to prevent the horses from
reaching through the pipes, but they can sometimes reach over and get at the
tallest leaves. I've found a few missing leaves over time, but have never
seen any adverse reactions.
Nevertheless, I don't care to take any chances.
I was taking care of a friends 13
young horses while they were on vacation.
To my horror I found the whole
bunch eatting over the fence. The electric fencer had gone out. The huge
rhubarb patch was down to dirt. Leaves , stems everything
I immediately called the vet
because I was sure they were all going to die or at least have tummy
aches
He asked what they were doing, what
symptoms.
I told him they were staring at me
over the fence and trying to reach the rest of the garden.
He said a"I guess they are okay
then, call me back when something happens"
I spent the next 2 days and
nights waiting for them to colic or something
Nothing happened except one mare
now 10 still loves rhubarb.
I have been told wild rhubarb is
bad
Paddi Sprecher Canadian Trail
House
www.CanadianTack.com 1-866-987-4816
toll free order line Canadian Distributor for Dixie Midnight No-Sweat Vent
Pads EasyCare Stirrups and Easy Boots Biothane Tack, Skito Equalizer
Pads Cashel Flymasks Yacht Braid Horse
equipment
