Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
Welcome to my forum.
Here you will find more than 6 years of questions and my answers. It is searchable and offers a great deal of information.
Currently, I am discontinuing new questions. This may change in the future, but in the meantime, please know that It has been a true pleasure serving you.
Take a look at my Nutrition Library and Tips of the Month for a variety of answers on selected topics. Be sure to sign up for my monthly e-newsletter, Forage for Thought.
I also have a growing number of recordings on "Teleseminars on Nutrition Topics that Concern You" as well as the new, Spotlight on Equine Nutrition Series -- printed versions of favorite teleseminars.
And finally, look for my articles in a variety of local publications and online newsletters, as well as the Horse Journal, where I am the Contributing Nutrition Editor.
All the best,
Dr. Getty
Hi Sherry,
I understand your fear of feeding pellets, so there is no need to feed them if you feel there is any risk. You have other options. You can feed a senior feed -- they are not pelleted. Or, and this is my preference, you can feed a moistened beet pulp, some alfalfa pellets, and a good flaxseed-meal based supplement like Reitsport to provide all the vitamins and minerals she needs, along with extra support for her joints and hooves.
About the possibility of cushings... watch how she sheds her winter coat this coming spring. The main sign of cushings is a winter coat that is difficult to shed.
I hope you get that burro!
Dr. Getty 
Where are you from? Bayfield, CO