Ask the Nutritionist: Dr. Getty's Forum for Equine Nutrition
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Dr. Getty
Hello Rica,
Vitamin C, as you know, is very important for older horses since they no longer produce enough on their own (like they did when they were younger). Pure C is ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and has a slightly bitter taste. I suggest starting with just a pinch, mixed in thoroughly with moistened feed. And then very slowly, build up to higher levels. You can add a flavoring agent if you find that to be helpful such as apple cider vinegar (most horses enjoy this), or a flavored oil such as Aperti. But avoid anything sugary since they sound like they are insulin resistant (cresty neck) -- so no apple sauce, apple juice, etc.
Consider Quiessence for your horses with a cresty neck since that is a danger sign that laminitis could occur (it indicates that insulin levels are elevated in the blood). Quiessence is a magnesium/chromium preparation that will help lower circulating insulin levels.
Keep me posted. I'm delighted that you are enjoying my book.
All the best,
Dr. Getty 
Author of Feed Your Horse Like A Horse
icky) eater readily eat Pure C when top dressed, or mixed with regular pellets? If there is a way to incourage consumption, will you suggest any you might know about? None of these geldings are showing any signs of Cushings, but I also have some almost 20 year old broodmares which may also benefit from Pure C and some of them are starting to look a bit cresty.Where are you from? Bayfield, CO