Endurance.Net Ridecamp Archives

Very interesting.  I'd like to add that a "routine" coming into a vet check
has helped me over and over in pulsing down.  When I arrive, I loosen the
cinch immediately, Nelson removes the bit and gives Malik an apple.  This
routine alone, with or without water, works every time.  The only time we
may need to expend more effort is in extreme temperatures and humidity.  I
have also found that a handful of grass just before presenting also helps
him relax and come down...it's as if he realizes "NOW it's time to rest and
relax and my slurry is on its way."  I think he knows the faster he pulses
down, the sooner he gets that slurry and all those carrots and apples!  :)
I only use rump rugs when it's chilly but those, too can be important in
pulsing down.  I think you have to know your horse and be flexible in
adapting to what works for him or her.  I used to NEVER give an apple or
allow him to eat before pulsing down (had been told it would raise his pulse
not lower it) until one day when he wouldn't come down and wouldn't come
down and the vet was listening with his stethoscope and Malik snuck his head
down and grabbed a mouthful of grass...it dropped almost instantly.  The vet
commented that that must be his trigger.  We've done it ever since (in
conjunction with the cinch and apple as there isn't always grass available).
Maggie



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