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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 

 

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Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Marilyn Guenther
Oct 10, 2010 - 8:14AM
equines as pets

I have an elderly (23 yrs) Apendix 16h horse and a 12 year old 15h mammoth donkey. Due to arthritis, I cannot ride any longer. I love my guys but sometimes worry that I am not doing the right thing by my donkey by just keeping him as a pet. They get the proper feed, chilled fruit in the summer, regular care by the farrier and shots as well as daily love and grroming from me. Is it okay to keep a young healthy equine as a pet (no riding)? I love them both and it would break my heart to give either one up. Oh, they have a open door walk in for shelter, constant fresh water supply and a 3-4 acre paddock.

Where are you from? Rio Rancho, NM

How did you locate this forum? newsletter from Dr. Getty

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Oct 10th, 2010 - 8:14 AM
Dr. Getty
Oct 23, 2010 - 7:34PM
Re: equines as pets

Hello Marilyn,

Of course it's ok! Horses and donkeys are wonderful companion animals and it sounds like they have a happy home. They do need exercise, so encourage them to walk by spreading hay throughout your 3 to 4 acres, so they have to "graze" throughout the day.

And you can always take a stroll with them to keep their circulation up and keep your older horse's joints lubricated (good for your arthritis, too, I might add! ).

Enjoy them -- there is nothing like a horse and donkey to nurture thy soul!

All the best,

Dr. Getty

Marilyn Guenther
I have an elderly (23 yrs) Apendix 16h horse and a 12 year old 15h mammoth donkey. Due to arthritis, I cannot ride any longer. I love my guys but sometimes worry that I am not doing the right thing by my donkey by just keeping him as a pet. They get the proper feed, chilled fruit in the summer, regular care by the farrier and shots as well as daily love and grroming from me. Is it okay to keep a young healthy equine as a pet (no riding)? I love them both and it would break my heart to give either one up. Oh, they have a open door walk in for shelter, constant fresh water supply and a 3-4 acre paddock.

Where are you from? Bayfield, CO

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Oct 23rd, 2010 - 7:34 PM
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