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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 

 



Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Re: which form of psyllium is best

Hi 10 Walker,

All psyllium products contain this water-soluble fiber that forms a gel inside the digestive tract, allowing for the removal of collected sand. But, it is not full-proof, regardless of which brand you use. The best, and only true way to prevent sand colic is to provide forage (hay and/or pasture) flowing through the digestive tract 24/7. The digestive tract is made of muscles and therefore, must be "exercised" to keep them in top shape and prevent torsions, weak areas, and proper motility. Forage does this. And because forage keeps the digestive tract moving, it allows for the removal of any collected sand.

Sand colic comes about very slowly and a horse can be appear fine for years without symptoms and then one day, have a colic attack. So, forage, and free availability of clean (temperature controlled in winter) water, and exercise -- that will keep your horse healthy.

Psyllium supplements are a good idea, in addition to the above. Pellets vs powder? Not important. They both end up dissolved. Horsetech's product? Very nice -- contains flax and probiotics -- both good things.

Do a sand test -- add a manure ball to a clear jar, filled with water. Shake to dissolve manure and see in any sand settles.

Thanks for writing about this important topic.

Dr. Getty
Author of Feed Your Horse Like A Horse



10 walker
Hi Dr. Getty, My horses live near the ocean, thus lots of sand. Their feeders are off ground and I sweep their large mats daily. I feed Horsetech Psyllium for 7days/month. Which brand do you recommend for effectiveness and palatability. I heard pellets don't always work as well as the "powder". I like to hear your opinion on all things horse. thanks

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO