In today’s world many people are unsure as to whether or
not to supplement the diets of their equine partners. With all the demands
we place on our horses, a balanced diet is the key to overall health and
soundness. Horses in the wild know instinctively what plants and herbs to
eat to keep their bodies healthy and strong. The diets of domesticated
horses are different in that, we decide what, when and how much they eat.
Feeding your horses a balanced diet is now your responsibility and should
not be taken lightly.
A horse requires at least 13 minerals and at least 8
vitamins in its daily diet. All needed by the body for many functions from
balancing pH and fluid levels to fueling and repairing tissue. Calcium,
phosphorous, sodium, potassium, magnesium and chloride are the
macro-minerals needed. Iron, copper, zinc, manganese, cobalt, selenium, and
iodine are the micro-minerals needed. Vitamins A, B, C, D, E, K, thiamin and
riboflavin are essential. Sulfur is also a needed nutrient for many
processes in the body. These vitamins and minerals are essential in the
horses diet; however, they can be harmful if taken in large amounts. Most of
these nutrients can come naturally from a good quality pasture rather than
from a source like grain. Contrary to common belief, grain is not a prime
source of these vitamins and minerals. Normally in commercial horse feeds
the most critical minerals are in the form of oxides or sulfates. Studies
have shown that oxides are about 10% available with sulfates being about 30%
available to your horse. Grains were not really designed to contain a
multi-vitamin, and they only contribute a small portion to your horses
overall vitamin and mineral intake. Horses obtain most of their needed
nutrients from the pastures they eat via good quality hay or grass. Keep in
mind that the soil in your area has to contain sufficient nutrient content
to supply and meet the animal’s requirements. If you have a low nutrient
level in your soil the pasture quality will be poor and lack much needed
nutrients.
Poor soil can effect your horses overall health. Soil in
Western New York, for example, severely lacks the selenium content needed
for proper equine health. Selenium deficiency can cause tying-up (severe
muscle cramps), myocardial failure, and skeletal muscle disease in horses.
Low levels of nutrients such as copper, cobalt, magnesium and sodium are
also common in many states and can cause health problems related to
deficiencies of these nutrients. Because soil is different all across the
county supplementation of your horses’ diets may be necessary. If you
contact your local Agriculture Center they should provide you with results
of the soil nutrient levels in your area to help you decide if and what
supplementation is necessary. Maybe a simple multi-vitamin from your local
feed store may be all that your horse requires. Maybe your horse requires a
supplement for something specific such as, a joint supplement for arthritis,
omega-3-fatty acids for a shiny coat or extra Biotin for hoof growth.
Whatever your horse needs it up to you to provide it for them.
With all the supplement companies on the market today,
you owe it to your horse to be an educated consumer. Know what your feeding
your horses and why. Almost every horse can benefit from a quality daily
multi-vitamin (especially in the winter when grass is limited). You might be
surprised by the results. My philosophy for a sound and happy horse is to
provide the following: Fresh water, good quality hay/grass, grain,
supplements, turn-out (at least 8hrs per day), proper shelter, yearly teeth
floating, routine Farrier visits and exercise. With a little research, horse
owners should have no problem making sound choices concerning
supplementation.
Tarra K. Bryk is the founder and
president of Animal Care Supplements LLC, which manufactures all natural,
human grade joint supplements for horses and dogs. Licensed and registered
with the New York State Department of Agriculture, they are fully compliant
with all AAFCO regulations and guidelines set forth for the manufacture and
sale of commercial feeds, pet foods, and related products. For further
information, contact staff at 716-553-4750, or visit their website at
www.animalcaresupplements.com.
