Re: Calcium, Phosphorus, LMF and all that feed
DarleneLVT@aol.com
Fri, 10 Jan 1997 10:26:52 -0500 (EST)
My mom took up endurance riding back in the late 70's and continued into the
mid to late 80's and had to give it up for personal reasons. Since that time
I was bitten by the bug and have kept up with the Morris' progress over the
years. I do believe their record stands for itself (Just how many miles did
Champagne have when you retired her Arlene?). This sport can be very
scientific as with any sport one chooses to participate in. However, if you
use a bit of common sense and use the resources available you will be
accommplish so much in the way of caring for and competing your equine
companion in enduance comptetion. There are several books at most tack & feed
stores, most of which have been mentioned on this list from time to time.
Your veterinarian should also have some useful info. My own boss, who is a
DVM, has several items he is always willing to loan out. Joyce, a frequent
contributer to this list, has picked Dr. Haskins brain for info many times.
The results have been educational for both. He does not have an enduance
background but has made a point to educate himself in this area and has
become even more valueable to people like Joyce. She has tailored feeding
plans for all 3 of our mares. My own new mare, Feather, was getting too much
protein in her diet when I bought her. Evidenced by the stocking in all of
her legs that was present until even a small workout would clear them.
Within two weeks of moving her there, one visit from Dr. Haskins, and a
look at her feeding regimen by all 3 of us it was decided to cut her protein
intake and the stocking disappeared virtually overnight! Never to return.
This was a simple process, born mostly of common sense problem solving
techniques. Feather, for one is satisfied. She was a bit on the lean side and
has gained considerable weight since Nov. when I bought her so I know I can
always trust Joyce and Dr. Haskins (as well as the other equine vets I work
for) to take proper and loving care of my friend. The bottom line is use
your resources. (Joyce even went to personal expense to have her hay
evaluated.) Those resources are among others: your veterinarian, the books
that are out there, and reliable information from some of our veteran
endurance riders who have been there, done that, which is precisely what Bob
and Arlene are. If this is done in an intelligent and tactful manner there is
a great deal to be learned which might not be so complicated after all.
Darlene M. Anderson, LVT
As well as Feather, the Morab in training, and Indigo, the Anglo in waiting.
Stanwood, WA