Proper nutrition is the most important contributor to
equine health and well-being. Responsible horse keepers
feed their animals a healthful, nutritionally balanced
diet portioned out in quantities that suit the age,
size, and activity level of each horse. Thriving horses
that stay healthy and strong into old age are those
whose nutritional needs are being met. Leading equine
nutritionist Melyni Worth explains the many ways in
which diet affects a horse's health, temperament, and
performance, I and then goes on to provide a detailed
study of equine nutritional requirements. Horse owners
will understand the roles played by fats, proteins,
minerals, electrolytes, and vitamins and will learn how
to evaluate weight and overall well-being and plan a
corresponding diet. Year-by-year concerns are addressed
here, as well as the specific needs of brood mares,
performance horses, and other working animals. Worth
also stresses the importance of giving horses plenty of
access to pasture and explains the benefits of additives
and herbal supplements. Common health problems such as
colic, cribbing, and ulcers can often be corrected
through a change in diet.Worth discusses possible
solutions and also helps owners of horses with more
complicated health needs. Challenges such as insulin
resistance, Cushing's disease, metabolic bone disorder,
and tying-up syndrome can all be managed or improved by
carefully monitoring the horse's feed. |
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