Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Dr. Getty
I have an 8yr old ASB gelding that foundered last spring. His thyroid showed to be a bit low. Now I'm leaning toward EMS w/ him. He has had a laminitic relapse this spring. On his Thyro-L, small amount of Triple Crown Low Starch, beet pulp and grass hay I had no idea that a small amount of grazing would hurt him. He is not bad at this time, front left very sore other seems fine. He was on Quiessence last year at the time of the first founder. I tried normal turnout w/ a muzzle but he got that off, which at this point we can't afford that to happen. So he is now stalled, 1 hr turnout on dry lot. Any suggestions for what to do now and in the future to make his life a useful one. 
Where are you from? VA
How did you locate this forum? searching
Hi Kelly,
EMS, of Equine Metabolic Syndrome, is another term for Insulin Resistance. Therefore, there are several things you can take a look at in managing his diet and lifestyle.
First, I would have your hay analyzed for its sugar and starch levels. Your county extention agency can help you or have it done by EquiAnalytical -- www.equi-analytical.com
Second, make sure that the beet pulp you're feeding is not sweetened. If it is, see if you can find unsweetened beet pulp, or soak your sweetened version and pour off the water.
You didn't mention if you're giving him any treats, but avoid any carrots or apples, since they are high in sugar. You can offer alfalfa cubes -- a few -- as a treat, or go with a low starch/low sugar treat such as Skode's Treats.
Triple Crown now has a product called Safe Starch which is even lower in NSC than the Low Starch product.
And, he ought to be getting a magnesium/chromium supplement -- Quiessence -- at 1 ounce per 250 lbs of body weight.
So, all of this, plus the possible allowing of minimal grazing -- take a look at www.safergrass.org for a discussion of the safe times and conditions when a horse can graze.
Lots to think about! And, I appreciate your problem. I hope this helps.
Dr. Getty
Where are you from? Bayfield, CO
Hi Kelly,
Excellent! Regarding shoeing... I personally prefer barefooted for horses but during a laminitis attack, there are specialized shoes and/or pads that can be used temporarily to alleviate pressure. I would suggest speaking to a qualified farrier about this.
All the best,
Dr. Getty
Where are you from? Bayfield, CO