horse in new home and stressed out!

Question
Hi . I've "rescued"a 12-13yr. old NSH gelding.He has never lived anywhere but his original home, and was in a trailer accident on the way to his new home with me. He was't injured but very stressful to him. I'd like to know what diet and supplements will keep him healthy in this stressful time and now that he will be starting work after years of nothing. Im confused about the conflicting opinions everyone has. Vitamins,minerals,sweet feed, etccccc. Hes not underweight, but needs muscle.He is agitated a d has homesick behaviors and very hard to handle right now. thanks!!

Answer
Dear Arlene,

My apologies for the delayed response.  It is hard for me to make specific recommendations because I don;t know what feeds you have available or how much your horse weighs.  However I would insure that he has access of plenty of grass hay and I would stay away from grains for now.  If he needs to gain weight it is better that the weight be gained slowly.  You could feed sugar beet pulp if you feel he needs something with more energy than hay.  You need to make sure he has access to plain white salt and also provide him with a mineral supplement that will balance the grass hay.  There are several on the market and they need to specifically say that they are for balancing grass hay.

I would be happy to work with you to find the ideal diet for your horse.  If this interested you feel free to drop me an email.

Best regards.

Clair

Clair Thunes, PhD
Independent Equine Nutritionist,
Equilibrate Equine Consulting,
www.equilibrateequine.com
info@equilibrateequine.com