Hi Dr. Getty,
I wanted to give you an update on my gelding. His back problems didn't resolve with acupuncture so my vet took muscle biopies and sent them off to Dr. Valberg. The results were positive for PSSM. He has been on a grass hay diet with 2lbs of Triple Crown Low Starch for the past two months. He has also lost the extra weight he was carrying and is now at an ideal weight. Before he was stiff, sore and cranky. I am amazed on what a difference a change in diet made. I've got my old horse back and its wonderful to see him run and buck when turned loose. The people at Triple Crown recommended I feed him 6lbs. a day. He isn't being worked right now due to the weather and I didn't want him to put the extra weight back on. When the weather warms up and I can begin working him regularly I planned on increasing the Tripel Crown. Would more TC Low Starch make him hyper? He also has free choice salt is there anything else I should add to his diet to help maintain his PSSM?
Thanks Dr. Getty.

Where are you from? Casper, WY

Hi Lori!

What excellent news about his weight loss! You can give him more of the Triple Crown Low Starch as his calorie needs increase, and I do not see any problems with it making him hyper.

I would still consider giving him Quiessence because the extra magnesium will help lower his circulating insulin levels. For a horse with his condition, this is very important.

And, good news! I'm just about to announce to everyone that I found a wonderful treat that is very low in sugar and starch. It's called Skode's Horse Treats -- click on the link and you can see the flavors available.

Thanks so much for the update. You're a great horse mom!

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO