energy supplement

[Stinkbomb]

During the summer my miniature horse gets quite lethargic when showing in hot weather. Often the shows are quite some travelling distance and we stay over. I was wondering about giving him some kind of supplement a few days before to help with his energy levels but am unsure as to what type to get. Any ideas??

 

[maddielove]

Do you feed electrolytes? They might be of use for the hot weather and the hustle and bustle of travelling etc.
Just replenish their systems when they feel hot/dehydrated.

 

[Stinkbomb]

Do they have to sweat for you to feed electolytes? ( sorry if silly question! )

 

[teddyt]

If the pony doesnt sweat much table salt is sufficient. However if the pony sweats due to travelling/exercise/stress/heat then yes, electrolytes need to be ed because they are lost in the sweat. They are vital for many body functions, especially muscle function and digestion. You can get powdered or liquid ones and they can be put in feed or water. You have to make sure you provide fresh water as well though as some wont drink water with electrolytes in it.
He could just be intolerant to heat but certainly travelling and staying away can take alot out of them. It lowers the immune system and challenges the respiratory system for example. The muscles have to work quite hard when travelling too.
You could feed a general tonic, nettex do one called pick me up for example.
If he does get hot then i would definately feed electrolytes.

 

[EnduroRider]

Hi

I would say to make sure that he has had suitable electrolytes in the first instance.

We use Science Supplements Energex to give the endurance horses a boost in the latter stages of a race. I have no idea if this would be suitable for a mini but it may be worth giving the guys a call to discuss...

http://www.sciencesupplements.co.uk/products.html#energex