sand test

karen clanin (kclanin@fix.net)
Mon, 25 Nov 1996 21:21:06 -0800 (PST)


Our vet showed us a very simple way to test for sand in our horses. You
will need a 1 quart clear glass jar. Fill it half full with water and add
three fresh road apples, (from top of pile, no dirt that way). Break up with
a stick and shake, let it all settle. Pour apple fibers out and if there's
sand it will be in the bottom. I think he said if there is more than 1/4
tsp you have a "sanded" horse.

We test each horse once a month and treat with psyllium as needed. One 1 lb
coffee can psyllium per day for 1 week or until horse tests clear, initially
it can take longer than a week. Since I buy bulk psyllium -- 88 lbs for
$196 -- we mix it in with the rice bran and a&m (that's alfalfa molasses to
the one who asked what a&m was) and ad some oil and stir well, the oil makes
the psyllium stick to the other stuff.

Karen/Jim Clanin