Re[2]: Gut sounds
Truman Prevatt (truman.prevatt@netsrq.com)
Thu, 12 Dec 1996 15:31:24 -0400
> Gut sounds become reduced during a ride, in large part, because of
> dehydration, redistribution of body fluids and alterations in body
> electrolyte concentrations, not because the horse has a deficiency of
> bugs. Adding bugs to the horse may make its gurgling sounds a tad
> louder (although I doubt it), but will not improve gastrointestinal
> motility or the general clinical picture, ie it is a con to think that
> you are improving matters or helping the horse. So if you are giving
> probiotics or what-ever merely to get an "A" on gut sounds, I feel
> that you are deluding yourself, potentially putting the horse in
> danger by trying to mask a lack of gastrointestinal motility, and
> effectively using a substance (probiotics) in an attempt to mask the
> underlying real status of the horse's gastrointestinal sounds and
> hence physiological status of the horse as it proceeds through the
> ride ("Cosequin riders"!!!!).
>
> I await the snowstorm.
>
> Phil Woods.
If the gut stops moving, then the horse will run out of energy - maybe not
on a 50 but definitely on a 100, Gut sounds is one thing I watch very
closely. If I come in with low gut sounds and the gut doesn't start moving
with eatting and drinking, then I would consult the vet before I went back
out. Gut sounds is somthing I take very seriously.
Let it snow!
Truman
Truman Prevatt
Sarasota, FL