hot weather syndrome

["Nancy Mitts" <mitts_n@hotmail.com>]

I am curious as to weather these rides were using a cardiac recovery index 
at the vet checks.
The problem is that very fit, competitive minded horses don't show   obvious 
signs they're getting in trouble until it's way too late.
In extreme weather/footing conditions it is up to the rider to back off even 
if the horse seems to be handling it okay. My definition of extreme is 
anything that particular horse isn't used to.
The great thing about using a CRI is that if the pulse elevates, even a 
little, and it's unusual for that horse, it may be the only warning you get. 
Even if it's not enough for the vet to pull you, it's a warning for the 
rider to pay more attention. I know this from experience. It's so simple, 
everyone should know how to do it, and practice on training rides so you 
know what's usual for your horse. If the ride vets aren't doing it, do you 
own. After the ride you should ask that it be done in the future.
In our area, the fifty mile rides already have 2 or 3 vet checks. The 
minimum hold time is usually 30 minutes, with one of the holds often being 
45. Remember that these holds come out of tht total ride time allowed(12 
hours). When you increase the hold times, what you end up doing is forcing 
the conservative riders to speed up because they are allowed less time on 
the trail.
Nancy Mitts
Central Region

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