Equine Nutrition - be wary of false feeding economies

Article by Louise Jones

Many horses, especially performance horses, breeding stallions, and broodmares at certain stages of production, require additional calories in the form of hard feed. Whilst in the current economic climate, with rising costs and inflation, it might be tempting to look at lower cost feeding options; in reality, this could be a false economy. When choosing a feed, in order to ensure that you are getting the best value for money and are providing your horses with the essential nutrients they require, there are a number of factors to consider.

Quality 

The ingredients included in feed are referred to as the raw materials. These are usually listed on the feed bag or label in descending order by weight. Usually they are listed by name (e.g., oats, barley wheat) but in some cases are listed by category (e.g., cereals). Each raw material will be included for a specific nutritional purpose. For example, full-fat soya is a high-quality source of protein, whilst cereals such as oats are mainly included for their energy content, also contributing towards protein, fibre and to a lesser degree, fat intake.

Waste by-products from human food processing are sometimes used in the manufacture of horse feed. Whilst it is true that they do still hold a nutritional value, in most cases they are predominantly providing fibre but contain poor levels of other essential nutrients. Two of the most commonly used by-products are oatfeed and distillers grains. Oatfeed is the fibrous husks and outer layer of the oat and it mainly provides fibre. Distillers grains are what is left over after yeast fermentation of cereal grains used to produce alcohol. The leftover grain is dried and used in the feed industry as a protein source. Distillers grains can be high in mycotoxins, which are toxic chemicals produced by fungi in certain crops, including maize. Furthermore, despite being used as a protein source, distillers grains are typically low in lysine. As one of the first limiting amino acids, lysine is a very important part of the horse’s diet; horses in work, pregnant mares and youngstock all have increased lysine requirements.

Another ingredient to look out for on the back of your bag of feed is nutritionally improved straw, often referred to as “NIS”. This is straw that has been treated with chemicals such as sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) to break down the structural fibre (lignins) and increase its digestibility. Straw is a good example of a forage which contains filler fibre; in fact, you can think of it as the horse’s equivalent of humans eating celery. Traditionally, oat straw was used to make NIS, however many manufacturers now use cheaper wheat or barley straw due to the rising cost of good quality oat straw.  Not all companies state what straw is used and instead use generic terms such as cereal straw, which again, allows them to vary the ingredients used depending on cost and availability. 

By law, feed manufacturers must declare certain nutrients on the feed bag, one of which is the percentage crude protein. This tells you how much protein the feed contains. However, not all protein is created equal; some protein is of very high quality, whilst other proteins can be so low in quality that they will limit a horse’s ability to grow, reproduce, perform or build muscle. Protein ‘quality’ is often measured by the levels of essential amino acids (e.g., lysine, methionine) it contains. In most cases feed manufacturers do not have to list the amount of these essential amino acids; but looking at the ingredient list will give you a clue as to how good the protein quality is. Good sources of high-quality protein include legumes and soybean meal, whereas by-products often contain moderate- or low-quality protein, even though they may be relatively high in crude protein. 

Understanding more about the ingredients in your bag of horse feed will help you to assess whether they are providing good, quality nutrition. Feeds containing large proportions of lower quality ingredients will obviously be cheaper, but this could compromise quality of the products. The goal therefore is to ensure that the nutritional makeup of the products remains high quality and consistent. 

Cooking for digestibility 

Digestibility is a term used to describe the amount of nutrients that are actually absorbed by a horse and are therefore available for growth, reproduction, and performance. Understanding digestibility of energy sources—such as fibre, fat, starch, and sugar as well as protein, vitamin and mineral digestibility—is important when devising optimal diets for horses. 

Most of the energy in grains is contained in the starch; however, horses cannot fully digest starch from uncooked (raw) grains in the small intestine, which results in this undigested starch traveling into the hindgut where it will ferment and potentially cause hindgut acidosis. Therefore, in order to maximise pre-caecal digestibility, feed manufacturers cook the grain. Similarly, soya beans must be carefully processed prior to feeding them to horses. This is because raw soybeans contain a specific enzyme that blocks the action of trypsin, an enzyme needed for protein absorption.

There are various methods of cooking including pelleting, micronizing, extrusion, and steam-flaking.  This is a fine art as, for example, undercooking soya beans will not deactivate the enzymes correctly, thus resulting in reduced protein absorption. On the other hand, overcooking will destroy essential amino acids such as lysine, methionine, threonine, and possibly others.

Variation in cooking methods, and hence digestibility, can have a direct impact on how the finished product performs. Your individual feed manufacturer should be able to tell you more about the cooking processes they use to maximise digestibility.

Micronutrient and functional ingredients specification

The back of your bag of feed should list the inclusion of vitamins, such as vitamin E, and minerals including copper and zinc. A lower vitamin and mineral specification is one way feed companies can keep the cost of their products down. For example, the vitamin E level in one unbranded Stud Cube is just 200 iu/kg—50% lower than in a branded alternative.

For most vitamins and minerals, the levels declared on the back of the bag/label only tell the amount actually added and do not include any background levels provided by the raw materials. In other marketing materials, such as brochures, some companies will combine the added figure with the amount provided by other raw materials in order to elevate the overall figure. For example, a feed with 50 mg/kg of added copper may list the total copper as 60 mg/kg on their website or brochure.  Whilst it is perfectly acceptable to do this, it is equally important to recognise that background levels in different raw materials can vary and hence should not be relied upon to meet requirements. To complicate this slightly further, chelated minerals (e.g., cupric chelate of amino acids hydrate, a copper chelate) may be included. Chelated minerals have a higher bioavailability, and so a feed with a high inclusion of chelated copper may perform as well as one that has an even higher overall copper level but does not include any chelates.

Equally important is the need to verify that any specific functional ingredients such as prebiotics or yeast are included at levels that are likely to be efficacious. 

Feeding rates

Whilst the cost of a bag of feed is undeniably important, another aspect that should be considered is the amount of feed required to achieve the desired body condition and provide a balanced diet. Feeding higher volumes of hard feed not only presents a challenge from a gastrointestinal health point of view but also increases the cost per day of feeding an individual. For example, the daily cost of feeding 8kg of a feed costing £400/€460 per tonne vs 5¼ kg of a feed costing £600/€680 per tonne are exactly the same. Plus, the lower feeding rate of the more expensive product will be a better option in terms of the horse’s digestive health, which is linked to overall health and performance. To keep feeding costs in perspective, look at the cost of feeding a horse per day rather than relying on individual product prices.

Consistency 

When a nutritionist creates a recipe for a horse feed, they can either create a ‘set recipe’ for the feed or a ‘least cost formulation’. A set recipe is one that doesn’t change and will use exactly the same ingredients in the same quantities. The benefit of this is that you can rest assured that each bag will deliver the same nutritional profile as the next. However, the downside is that if the price of a specific ingredient increases, unfortunately, so will the cost of the product.

On the other hand, least-cost formulations use software to make short-term recipes based on the cost of available ingredients. It will use the cheapest ingredient available. When done correctly, they will provide the amount of calories (energy), crude protein, vitamins and minerals as specified on the label. However, the ingredients will change, and protein quality can be compromised. Often feed companies using least-cost formulations will print their ingredients on a label, rather than the bag itself, as the label can be amended quickly and cheaply, should they alter the recipe.

Checking the list of ingredients in your feed regularly should alert you to any formulation changes.  Equally look out for feeds that include vague ingredient listings such as ‘cereal grains and grain by-products, vegetable protein meals and vegetable oil’; these terms are often used to give the flexibility to change the ingredients depending on how costly they are.

Peace of mind

Another important issue is that some companies producing lower-cost feeds may not have invested in the resources required to carry out testing for naturally occurring prohibited substances (NOPS) such as theophylline, banned substances (e.g., zilpaterol - an anabolic steroid) or mycotoxins (e.g., zearalenone). It is true that, even with the most stringent testing regime, identifying potential contamination is difficult; and over recent years, a number of feed companies have had issues.  However, by choosing a feed manufacturer who is at the top of their game in terms of testing and monitoring for the presence of such substances will give you peace of mind that they are aware of the threat these substances pose, and they are taking significant precautions to prevent their presence in their products. It is important to source horse feed from a BETA NOPS registered feed manufacturer at a minimum. It may also be prudent to ask questions about the feed manufacturer’s testing regime and frequency of testing.  

Supplements – to use or not to use?

A good nutritionist will be able to assess any supplements that are fed, making note of why each is added to the diet and the key nutrients they provide. It is easy to get stuck into the trap of feeding multiple supplements that contain the same nutrients, effectively doubling up on intake. Whilst in many cases this isn’t nutritionally an issue, it is an ineffective financial spend. For example, B vitamins can be a very useful addition to the diet, but if provided in levels much higher than the horse needs, they will simply be excreted in the urine. Reviewing the supplements you are feeding with your nutritionist to ensure they are essential and eliminating nutritional double-ups is one of the simplest ways to shave off some expense.

Review and revise

A periodic review of your horse’s diet ensures that you’re providing the best nutrition in the most cost-effective way. This will require the expertise of a nutritionist. Seeking advice on online forums and social media is not recommended as this can lead to misinformed, biased advice or frankly, dangerous recommendations. On the other hand, a properly qualified and experienced nutritionist will be able to undertake a thorough diet evaluation, carefully collecting information about forages, concentrates, and supplements. 

Working with a nutritionist has many advantages; they will be able to work with you to ensure optimal nutrition, whilst also helping to limit needless expenses. Some nutritionists are better than others, so choose wisely. (Does the person in question have the level of qualifications?) Bear in mind that while qualifications can assure you that the nutritionist has rigorous science-based training, experience is also exceptionally important. Ask them about their industry experience and what other clients they work with to ensure they have the right skill set for your needs. In addition, a competent nutritionist will be willing and able to interact with your vet where and when required to ensure that the health, well-being, and nutrition of your horses is as good as it can be. 

There are independent nutritionists available, but you will likely incur a charge—often quite a significant one. On the other hand, the majority of feed companies employ qualified, experienced nutritionists and offer their advice, free of charge.

Product Focus

Three new products available for trainers this spring 2023

PAVESCO - TWYDIL® ARTRIDAY

NEW feed supplement for joints from TWYDIL®, Switzerland.

Since MSM has been registered as a controlled substance, we decided to launch on the equine market a product that can be used daily and long term.

Following our recent scientific investigations, it appears that the combination of chondroïtin, glucosamine, pro-anthocyanin and ASU brings an active and efficient support on the cartilage health and its functionality. 

ASU means « avocado and soybean unsaponifiable fatty acids ». This extract is particularly efficient for the stabilisation of the cartilage extra-cellular matrix, bringing a noticeable preventive effect. The combination of these ingredients have an effect on all parts of the joints: cartilage, synovial fluid and membrane. The pro-anthocyanin fraction has a powerful anti-oxidant property with a high tropism for joints, so breaking the vicious circle conducting to lameness.

Horses show an improvement of their general suppleness and of their stride. The well-being is also taken into consideration because training is better tolerated. 

50g daily for 30 days minimum is recommended to observe an improvement. It may be needed to continue for a longer period in sensitive horses.

The product is available in 1.5 kg pails.

For more information visit: www.twydil.com

NAF Five Star Metazone 

By Dr Andy Richardson BVSc CertAVP(ESM) MRCVS, Veterinary Director at NAF

Whatever the challenge, keep your yard ‘in the zone’ with NEW NAF Five Star Metazone. 

Metazone has been formulated by the Veterinary and Nutrition experts at NAF and is an innovative, evidence based nutraceutical that targets the support of natural anti-inflammatory pathways in all racehorses. The synergistic blend of plant based phytochemicals that make up this product support these pathways wherever they are needed in the body - whether that be for joints, hooves, tendons, ligaments, muscles or skin. The unique herbal complex of Metazone works in synergy wherever those triggers occur within the system, to ensure we maintain freedom from discomfort. Maintaining optimum comfort ensures racehorse welfare and provides an optimal environment for recovery and maximising athletic potential.

Unwanted or excessive inflammation is a major issue for the well-being and performance of horses in training and a major cause of lost training days and missed races. Metazone is the culmination of many years of research and knowledge gathered by the scientific team at NAF on how plant based phytochemicals can positively influence the body.

Formulated specifically to manage, relieve and control, Metazone provides nutritional support for common issues that may interrupt a training schedule. Metazone supports a horse’s natural anti-inflammatory responses, which are often under maximum stress when in training, helping them to stay sound through periods of repeated, strenuous exercise. The product is suitable when a short term boost is needed but may also be used for long term daily administration when comfort is key. The natural formula is gut kind and designed to work effectively without compromising gut health. It can be fed alongside any other NAF product that will support underlying structures as required.

Independently trialled, Metazone has been robustly trialled by equine researchers at The Royal Agricultural University, Cirencester in a blinded, cross-over designed trial, and assessed by a panel of external vets. Real results research also includes trials with leading trainers, who have all seen the benefit of getting their horses ‘in the Metazone’. 

Metazone is available as a fast-acting liquid, in an instant use syringe and as palatable powder. The liquid comes in 5L and 1L sizes with the syringes available as 3 x 30ml and the powder is in a 1.2kg tub. 

For more information on pricing and the product, contact NAF’s Racing Manager Sammy Martin on 07980 922041 or smartin@naf-uk.com. 

Plusvital - Neutragast

Plusvital Neutragast is now available in pellets.

Ideal for fussy eaters, Neutragast Pellets promote gastrointestinal health in convenient & palatable soy protein base pellet form.

Using research proven ingredients to promote digestive performance the pellets contain key ingredients boswellia extract, calcified seaweed, saccharomyces cerevisiae and provides a source of B vitamins to help with food metabolism.

Boswellia extract (Terepenes and Boswellic acids) have been shown to have several beneficial effects including anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Boswellia compounds have been shown to be of benefit in cases of intestinal inflammation. This is achieved through modulation of the inflammatory cell (leukocyte) response.

Calcified seaweed has been reported to have a positive effect on buffering of pH in equine stomachs. Presented in the form of Lithothamnium Calcareum this acts as a safeguard against excess acid within the stomach.

Additionally Plusvital Neutragast Pellets contain the amino acid Threonine which is one of the main amino acid components of the protein mucin. Mucin forms a gel-like structure which makes up the mucosal barrier that protects the stomach wall against its own acidic secretions.

Saccharomyces cerevisiae (active yeast) is a probiotic which promotes intestinal health through multiple pathways including increased fibre digestion.

As it is a pellet supplement it works well with pelleted feed or straight feed concentrates and can be used as part of a daily routine.

For more information visit: www.plusvital.com

Which products and services should trainers be using in 2023?

Cavalor - ArtiTech

Low-grade inflammation is common in joints that perform. However, joint inflammation initiates a cascade of catabolic reactions that gradually degrade the cartilage and may result in lameness.

During an extensive research program, Cavalor has designed a multi-ingredient nutraceutical that helps with protecting joints of equine athletes. The effectiveness of Cavalor ArtiTec has been documented by both in vitro and in vivo experiments and the overall efficacy in the treatment of lameness is supported by the results of a clinical pilot study.

The efficacy and especially the synergistic potential of the individual raw materials and botanical ingredients on inflammation, cartilage protection and repair has been studied over 7 years. These findings have led to the final formulation of Cavalor ArtiTec.

Combining botanical ingredients is a widely applied practice to compose effective products. The final result is believed to be of similar or better potency as that of a single herb. The advantage of using suboptimal efficacious dose levels of each botanical ingredient is reducing the risk of potential toxicities associated with the usage of single herbs.

In the follow-up of the results of previous studies, 7 candidate formulations were evaluated (in vitro) to further unlock the mechanism of action of these formulations and their efficacy. The influence on various biomarkers related to joint health and homeostasis were evaluated using primary human chondrocytes isolated from knee joints in various in vitro models. This study has led to the development of the final candidate formulation for evaluation in a combined mechanistic and efficacy horse specific joint inflammation model (Phase III).

In conclusion, Cavalor ArtiTec is a complete multi-ingredient nutraceutical with proven efficacy for optimising joint health in equine athletes. Cavalor ArtiTec delivers everything our equine ‘athletes’ deserve during periods of intense activity and stress. 

For more information contact: Website: www.cavalordirect.co.uk Telephone: +44 1902 213483

Duggan Veterinary - ConfidenceEQ®

Pheromone communication has been at the heart of Duggan Veterinary Supplies expertise for over 40 years, and we are now pleased to announce the launch of the innovative equine appeasing pheromone, ConfidenceEQ®.

A pheromone is a naturally occurring chemical that an animal produces used for intraspecies communication, which means that their presence automatically and predictably affects all members of the same species, regardless of age or gender.

Like many mammals, nursing mares naturally emit a calming pheromone that reassures their newborn foal. When the foal encounters unfamiliar situations and uncharted territory, this pheromone makes the foal feel comfortable, secure, and more self-assured, enabling them to better learn about their surroundings. ConfidenceEQ® is an identical replica of this horse appeasing pheromone. Numerous studies have been conducted since the equine appeasing pheromone was discovered, proving its effectiveness in reducing stress in conditions that occur frequently in horses of all ages.

Donal Duggan is delighted to add ConfidenceEQ® to the Duggan Veterinary Equine armoury, stating: “The ideal time to use ConfidenceEQ® is when you anticipate your horse will be exposed to something new which they may find stressful. ConfidenceEQ® helps reassure horses, helping them focus allowing them to use their own skills to cope with their surroundings and can be used to help build confidence in situations such as: Loading, travelling and recovery after arrival; Environmental changes (new yard, stabling) or competition environment; Social situations (weaning foals, meeting new horses); Dealing with loud noises (large crowds, thunderstorms, fireworks); Breaking young horses and introducing new exercises during training; Farrier, vet, or dental visits.”

Horses in these situations may show signs of stress such as pawing, vocalising, flared nostrils, kicking, lack of concentration, and resistance. These behavioural changes are due to an elevated cortisol level, which when prolonged, also triggers multiple physiological responses like increased heart rate and blood pressure, weakening of the immune system, cribbing, and digestive issues - all of which can develop into significant problems for owners, trainers, and veterinary practitioners.

ConfidenceEQ® is easy and quick to apply. There are no syringes, mixing food, pills or other uncomfortable application methods that can be difficult to administer or add stress to your horse. It takes effect in 30 minutes, lasts 2.5 hours, and can be reapplied as needed.

For more information contact: Email: sales@dugganvet.ie or uksales@dugganvet.com 

Freedom Health - Total Gut Health

Horses actively training and racing commonly struggle with digestive health, problems which manifest most obviously in gastric issues. Additionally, many racehorses experience concurrent hindgut problems less easily recognised. Not eating well, sudden changes in behaviour, resistant and mean attitudes, not fully using the body, and struggling to maintain weight and condition are a few of the problems that can be associated with hindgut health.

It’s important to actively manage the health of the horses’ entire digestive tract to stop the treat-and-repeat cycle and keep your horses in top condition. A healthy gut is a core requirement for a racehorse to perform to its full potential.

Unfortunately, training, travelling, racing, and breeding chronically stress the horse and especially the digestive tract. Management and feeding practices have changed beyond recognition over the last few decades. But the equine digestive tract remains the same, having been accustomed to a low-stress, nomadic lifestyle while consuming a high-fibre, trickle-fed diet. Modern husbandry practices and feeding grain-based feeds, further complicated by competition stresses, can be significant contributors to digestive issues. What, then, can you do for these horses?

Support total digestive health by feeding SUCCEED® Digestive Conditioning Program™ once a day every day. SUCCEED maintains optimal digestive health in athletic horses naturally with science-based, human-food-grade quality, proven ingredients. It serves as an ongoing maintenance program for the health of the entire digestive tract.

Product trials available on a limited basis. Contact Sandra Hughes: shughes@freedomhealthllc.com.

SUCCEED® Digestive Conditioning Program™

The patented and proven SUCCEED formula delivers nutrients the body requires for GI anatomy and function. It provides a variety of benefits including:Oat Oil – specially extracted to preserve polar lipids which support nutrient absorption and bioavailability; Oat Flour – specially processed to preserve ß-glucan, a soluble fibre that provides support for a healthy immune system and a normal, healthy rate of feed transit through the GI tract; Yeast – a combination of a mannan oligosaccharide and a yeast ß-glucan help maintain a healthy, balanced hindgut and natural immunity; Amino Acids – provide fuel for muscles and support production of mucin, a necessary component of the mucus that lubricates and protects the gut lining.

“I have been using SUCCEED, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. You can visually see a big difference in the horses’ condition very quickly. I believe that it is really enabling their digestive systems.”

Richard Hughes, Horse Trainer

For more information visit: Succeed-equine.co.uk or @succeedequine

NAF - Immuforte

Keep the whole yard healthy, and ready to race, with NEW NAF Immuforte. 

The busy racing yard environment presents the perfect storm of challenges for your horses’ immune systems; and any trainer knows when immune challenge hits, training days, performance and results are lost. Keeping them healthy keeps your training regime on track, and ensures the season’s goals remain in sight for every horse on your yard. 

CREDITED TO JESS PHOTOGRAPHY

Regular travel, intense exercise and being stabled in close proximity, often with shared air space, means a daily assault on every racehorse’s natural defences. Add the challenge of frequent new arrivals, particularly young horses, with naïve immune systems, working closely together, and the risk is self-evident. 

Requested by trainers. Formulated by Equine Vets and Registered Nutritionists. Trialled by trainers, riders and professionals in elite equine sport. BETA NOPS accredited, and designed to meet the highest regulatory and quality standards for racing throughout Europe, and beyond. New NAF Immuforte builds on over 30 years of experience at NAF, in innovative evidence-led solutions, to provide targeted immune support for equine athletes. 

Containing a key natural extract proven to boost the equine immune system, Immuforte supports white blood cell numbers and activity, and targets the oxygen load capacity of red blood cells. Uniquely, Immuforte combines the recognised immune support of echinacea with natural antioxidants and adaptogenic botanical extracts, including, rosehip, turmeric, ginkgo and omicha, to regulate cellular responses, and further support the body’s own defence against unwanted attack. 

NAF Immuforte is available as a palatable liquid, in an easy to feed, auto-measured pump dispense liquid. The perfect solution to your yard’s natural defences.

For more information contact: Website: www.naf-equine.eu Telephone: 0800 373 106

Plusvital - Racing Syrup

The globalisation of racing has eroded the margins of success between trainers. High performance is no longer guaranteed based on pedigrees. A study carried out on winning margins in racing suggests that the overall percentage difference between first place and second place  is 0.32%, the difference between first and third was 0.75%. Never before has optimising recovery and nutrition been as important in gaining percentages of improvement which can be the difference between winning and not. 

Days post-race or fast work the body recovers and adapts allowing the horse to become more oxygen efficient and physically stronger. Muscle recovery requires specific vitamins, minerals and amino acids to give the horse the best possible opportunity to maximise its full potential. This vital edge is optimised by correct nutrition. Supporting race horses' mineral and vitamin levels is critical to racing success today. 

Used for 47 years by global racing elite Plusvital Racing Syrup is formulated to provide 30 essential vitamins and minerals exceeding NRC recommendations. Key ingredients facilitate strength and recovery.  

B vitamins are an essential group of vitamins for a horse to perform at its best. The harder they work the higher the requirement for vitamin B is. B vitamins play a vital role in forming red blood cells, responsible for carrying oxygen to muscles allowing the horse to continue galloping at high intensity whilst removing carbon dioxide. When muscle has a high level of carbon dioxide the horse becomes tired and cannot finish the race.

Additional key ingredients include Vitamin E which reduces oxidative stress. Selenium neutralise free radicals supporting the immune system. Branched chain Amino acids and Threonine supports muscle recovery essential for strengthening. Zinc and biotin support cellular repair and hoof growth. Available in 2L or 5L Plusvital racing syrup supports your horse in pursuit of their performance goals. 

For more information visit: www.plusvital.com

Why Choose Pro-Dosa in 2023?
As we all know, horsemen are responsible for the management of horses’ health, wellbeing, and fitness, to ensure they can perform to the best of their ability on the racetrack, but at the same time, a racing stable must be a profitable business and each horse must be economically viable for their owners.  As a result, in 2023, more than ever, horsemen must ensure they are getting the best possible value from the products they purchase.

Quite logically, horses under the added stress of hard work, transport, racing, competition, or illness have increased nutrient requirements.  Unlike people though, who often turn to food when under stress (think chocolate or chardonnay), horses tend to go off feed and drink less than they normally would.  Horses that fail to eat or drink well when travelling and racing will recover more slowly and will often perform below their best.  That is why many stables consider traditional, veterinary-administered, injectable pre-race/pre-travel treatments to be essential. Corrine Hills says “I originally developed Pro-Dosa BOOST, for horses in my own racetrack veterinary practice, as a more economical, less invasive, oral alternative to those treatments.”

Pro-Dosa BOOST is a complete, balanced multi-nutrient paste that I formulated to fill the gap between good daily nutrition and the increased requirements horses have when they are under stress. Pro-Dosa BOOST provides a practical way to deliver essential nutrients to horses that may not be eating or drinking enough, at those times, to support normal metabolism, performance, recovery, and heath.  

It contains a comprehensive range of water-soluble vitamins, trace elements, electrolytes, and amino acids in doses that reflect requirements established in scientific literature.  I have included them in readily usable forms, in good balance with each other, and in balance with the cofactors required for their absorption and function.”

Pro-Dosa International Ltd is GMP registered, demonstrating quality, safety, and security of the product from raw materials through to finished product.  Each batch of Pro-Dosa BOOST undergoes laboratory testing including complete quantitative analysis, demonstrating that each portion contains precisely what is on the label; microbial cultures, to ensure it is safe to feed; and Naturally Occurring Prohibited Substance screening.  

For more information contact: Email: info@pro-dosa.com Telephone: +64 27 238-8482

SPILLERS™ - Perform & Restore Mash

Racehorses need optimum nutrition to help them fulfil their full potential which is why SPILLERS™ has launched their new SPILLERS Perform & Restore Mash. The mash soaks super-fast in under 2 minutes providing convenience especially when travelling and is designed to be fed daily to support optimum condition and recovery.  It’s been formulated to assist hydration and complement the replacement of electrolytes post exercise.  Re-hydrating quickly is important particularly for horses in high intensity exercise as they rely heavily on muscle glycogen (stored glucose) for energy metabolism and although it takes up to 72 hours for glycogen stores to be fully restored, replenishment will be slower in dehydrated horses. 

SPILLERS Perform & Restore Mash is a low starch, molasses free blend of highly digestible fibre and oil to support digestive health and includes probiotic live yeast alongside prebiotic MOS and FOS.  The mash offers a high level of the essential amino acid lysine to support muscle tone and topline and includes branch chain amino acids to support muscle synthesis post exercise. What’s more, it supplies powerful antioxidants including vitamin C to support respiratory health and natural, bioavailable vitamin E to support immunity, muscle health and an athletic performance. 

Finally, SPILLERS Perform & Restore Mash includes an appetising apple aroma which is released when soaking to encourage even the fussiest of fussy feeders. 

All SPILLERS feeds are BETA NOPS approved.

For more information contact:  Website: www.spillers-feeds.com Care-Line number: 01908 226626

Fairfax - Better condition – better performance

Resolve to make 2023 the year you take a closer look at the exercise tack your horses wear on a daily basis – and follow the science when it comes to making choices that will improve performance.

Switching saddles could significantly improve a horse’s back health and movement, as well as reducing time off and vet bills this year. In scientific trials commonly-used exercise saddles (1/2 tree, 3/4 tree, and full tree) all caused areas of potentially detrimental high pressure. The Fairfax Exercise Saddle relieves pressure at a crucial point on the back (T13) so in gallop the hindleg is brought forward more and the quarters come further under the horse. The proven result is increased stride length and therefore more power.

If a horse is girthy or aggressive when being tacked up, consider the girth it wears on a daily basis. When straight girths were tested at gallop on a treadmill, the pressure was so high that the pressure mat was unable to record it. To achieve a significantly freer gallop with increased hindlimb extension, make the switch for 2023 to the Fairfax Race Exercise Girth which is shaped to avoid a peak pressure zone behind the elbow. It may also be an effective part of a multi-disciplinary approach in supporting horses with ulcers.

You could reduce or eliminate sore or rubbed withers this year by using a medical-grade closed-cell foam pad with a shaped central webbing spine. The Fairfax Race Exercise Pad provided superior pressure reduction without slipping in a pilot study where foam, gel and polyfill pads were compared. Gel pads increased pressure at the front of the saddle and those without a central spine (such as polyfill pads) slipped down onto the back at speed. In addition, using multiple polyfill pads does not relieve pressure – it increases bulk and instability. 

Scientists have proven that changing to a bridle that reduces pressure at the TMJ has a significant positive effect on the horse’s power, straightness and efficiency of stride. This is because the TMJ area is massively influential when it comes to locomotion. The Fairfax Race Bridle relieves pressure at the TMJ and other areas on the face resulting in improved front and hindleg range of motion. In addition, the Mexican grackle helps keep the bit stable in the mouth reducing sores and hanging associated with bridle pressure.

For more information visit: Fairfaxracing.com

Baileys New Race-Pro Cubes for the “Challenging Temperament”

Baileys’ new Race-Pro Cubes are a reduced starch alternative to oat-based racing feeds, delivering a highly palatable combination of slow and fast release energy to fuel racehorses of all types, in training, racing and recovery, throughout their season.  Ideal for horses whose temperament can be challenging when fed high starch mixes, these high fibre cubes support sustained performance and stamina, while also fueling speed.  

They contain a blend of highly digestible super fibres and oil, for slow release calories, with micronised wheat for readily available energy, and boosted antioxidant levels support muscle function and recovery.  Digest Plus prebiotic and a live probiotic yeast are included for optimum gut health, while a reduced starch content encourages a healthy gastric environment.  To complete the package, Race-Pro Cubes contain a full performance range of vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, for healthy hoof growth, bone and tissue integrity and general well-being.

Where a low starch, high energy feed is required, for those prone to gastric ulcers for example, Baileys’ renowned Ease & Excel blend and Ease & Excel Cubes are proven to deliver, with starch levels of just 8%, yet Digestible Energy (DE) contents of 13MJ/kg and 12MJ/kg respectively.  Race-Pro Cubes provide 12MJ/kg of DE with a 17% starch level, compared to Racehorse Cubes (starch 26%/DE 13.5MJ/kg) and Racehorse Mix (starch 32%/DE 14MJ/kg).

For more information contact Baileys UK Racing Specialist, Will Humphries, on 07731 997580 or will@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

Outside of the UK, contact Export Manager, Mark Buchan, on  + 44 (0)7711 701565 or mark@baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk  www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk/racing

Bloomfields - Professional Raceline

This is the ultimate horsebox for young or difficult horses, stallions, & bloodstock.

Designed and precision engineered in the UK specifically for the transport of Bloodstock, the unmistakable & seamless Bloomfields Professional Raceline oozes class & elegance as well as its evident suitability for the industries demands.

A twist to our popular Professional model, which has been a market leading design used by amateurs and professionals throughout the world for over 15 years, we have designed with the involvement of industry experts to meet the needs of the end user, comfort and practicality for both the travelling staff and the horses.

The Professional Raceline is fitted with our one piece composite floor. Sliding partition, wall, door and roof padding is fitted as standard for superior comfort of the horse. Our woven, thermally bonded panels, doubled with our captive design are, in our opinion, the strongest on the market, but for extra peace of mind we also add an aluminium kick board throughout the horse area.

Bloomfields have designed and developed a slam locking system for the individual doors to each horse. Knowing that some travellers can be difficult, this gives super easy exit and entry to the grooms area without needing to bend down in front of the horses. Our Double catch slam locks make shutting the doors effortless and safe plus super easy access to each horse for easy preparation.

A very popular option for the Professional Raceline is the exquisite sliding partition. Absolutely indispensable for transporters and studs who carry mares and foals. Effortlessly glide the full height partition to the far wall with one hand and back to the centre point when required, meaning there is no need for more than one person to alter the stalls. Our 4 point locking system adds superior strength when in the central position.

The seamless under-sprung ramp gives a progressive lifting pivot meaning opening and closing the ramp is effortless. We never use gas rams, meaning the weight of the ramp will not change from the day of purchase.

What sets the Raceline apart from any other is the careful consideration into the practicality of the grooms area and how it can be a useful and resourceful place for storing everything from tack to veterinary medication and water barrels. Thorough research was undertaken to maximise the use of the space in the grooms area, with this in mind we have the option of a washable removable Hammock that is, as standard, mounted securely on the bulkhead. This allows travelling staff to relax without taking up essential weight or space.

One of the main factors considered when designing the Raceline was to put preventatives in place for cross contamination, particularly in the racing industry this is essential, So we have, as standard, supplied individual storage compartments for racing equipment & feed etc.

With safety in mind, believed to be the safest way to travel horses, The horses are separated by means of a full height, grilled partition, head divider, two full height grilled access doors, eliminating the need for a breast bar. The professional Raceline comes fully padded with an oversized rear door and dual reinforced glass fibre and Coat-X coated wheel arch covers. 

With an expansive list of optional extras to suit almost any requirement, including the 4.5t crewcab option in 2023, the Bloomfields Professional Raceline is the first and only form of 2 horse transportation you’ll need.

Our Professional Raceline is used throughout the world by professional transporters and riders, proving the strength and durability is second to none.

Contact us today to arrange a yard visit or for further details.

Telephone: 01558685117 / 07534849749 Email: BloomfieldsRaceline@Gmail.com Website: www.bloomfields.co/horsebox-models/raceline-professional

The Balancing Act

By Catherine Rudenko

Key considerations when reviewing what you feed and if you should supplement

With so many feeds and supplements on the market, the feed room can soon take on the appearance of an alchemist’s cupboard. Feeding is of course an artform but one that should be based on sound science. In order to make an informed decision, there are some key questions to ask yourself and your supplier when choosing what ingredients will form your secret to success. 

Question #1: What is it? 

Get an overview of the products’ intended use and what category of horse they are most suited for. Not every horse in the yard will require supplementing. Whilst one could argue all horses would benefit from any supplement at some level, the real question is do they need it? Where there is a concern or clinical issue, a specific supplement is more likely warranted and is more likely to have an impact. A blanket approach for supplements is really only appropriate where the horses all have the same need (e.g., use of electrolytes).  

Question #2: Is it effective? 

There are many good reasons to use supplements with an ever-increasing body of research building as to how certain foods, plants or substances can influence both health and performance. Does the feed or supplement you are considering have any evidence in the form of scientific or clinical studies? Whilst the finished product may not—in a branded sense—be researched, the active components or ingredients should be. Ideally, we look for equine-specific research, but often other species are referenced, including humans; and this gives confidence that there is a sound line of thinking behind the use of such ingredients. 

Having established if there is evidence, the next important question is, does the feed or supplement deliver that ingredient at an effective level? For example, if research shows 10g of glucosamine to be effective in terms of absorption and reaching the joint, does your supplement or feed—when fed at the recommended rate—deliver that amount? 

There is of course the cocktail effect to consider, whereby mixing of multiple ingredients to target a problem can reduce the amount of each individual ingredient needed. This is where the product itself is ideally then tested to confirm that the cocktail is indeed effective. 

Question #3: How does it fit with my current feeding and supplement program? 

All too often a feed or supplement is considered in isolation which can lead to over-supplementing through duplication. Feeds and supplements can contain common materials, (i.e., on occasion there is no need to further supplement or that you can reduce the dose rate of a supplement). 

Before taking on any supplement, in addition to your current program, you first need to have a good understanding of what is currently being consumed on a per day basis. …

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Links to read: 

North American version: issue 30 Fall/Winter 2013

European version: issue 43 Autumn 2013